Partnerships and pizza! Check out this final episode in our season on Pittsburgh pizza to hear from Neil Blazin and Justin Vetter, owners of Driftwood Oven. We discuss the origins of their concept, why it’s important for them to create a sustainable restaurant, and what it’s like to work in a partnership. Their thoughtful attention to ingredient selection and the care in which they make their food clearly comes across in our conversation. It’s easy to see why Driftwood Oven has quickly become a favorite among local pizza lovers and for those who enjoy sitting down and breaking bread with their friends and family.
I had a great time visiting with Neil Blazin and Justin Vetter, owners of Driftwood Oven, in their Lawrenceville location. It’s easy to see why our city has been pulling for these guys ever since they started selling pizza under a food tent five years ago. They welcomed me into their restaurant with open arms (we literally ended the podcast with a big hug), and our conversation covered everything from how they met to why sustainable and locally grown foods are important factors in determining what ultimately makes it onto their menu. They were candid and honest about the pros and cons of working in a partnership and in the challenges they’ve faced growing into their brick-and-mortar location over the past two years. Neil shared the roots of his love for baking and how he chose sourdough bread as the centerpiece for Driftwood Oven. Justin talked about what makes for an excellent guest experience and how important it is to break bread among the staff before opening the doors to customers. Neil and Justin both made it clear just how impactful working for Legume Bistro has been in shaping their philosophy, culture, and practices at Driftwood Oven. After listening to this episode, it’s evident just how much these two complement each other in their business.
If you have any questions or if you’d like to chat, you can reach me at my contact info below. The purpose of this podcast is to share ideas, inspire action, and build a stronger small business community here in Pittsburgh. So please say hello, tell me what you think, and let me know how I’m doing. It means a ton!
YOU CAN REACH ME AT:
Podcast: https://www.proprietorsofpittsburgh.com
Website: https://www.thestartupshoppe.net/podcasts
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcast
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcast
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darinvilano
Phone: 412-336-8247
YOU CAN REACH NEIL BLAZIN AND JUSTIN VETTER AT:
Website: https://www.driftwoodoven.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/driftwoodoven
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Driftwoodoven
Twitter: https://twitter.com/DriftwoodOven