Pizza Factory in Phelan serves hand-tossed pies made from scratch whole family can enjoy

The term “made from scratch” is often tossed around regarding food. Still, it is a factual observation when discussing the comprehensive menu, including hand-tossed pizzas, at Pizza Factory Phelan.

Hand-tossed pizzas are unique, and with ingredients from dough to signature sauces “made from scratch,” the preparation is just as important as their slogan, which says it all: “We toss ‘em, they’re awesome.”

But we’re getting ahead of our story.

How it all began

Pizza Factory originated in Oakhurst, California, in 1979. Known then as Danny’s Red Devil Pizza, the eatery’s fresh ingredients and imaginative combinations were a recipe for success.

Hand-tossed pizza dough stretches to create a softer dough that spreads evenly on the baking pan. This technique added to the pizzeria’s popularity. It was an obvious candidate for franchise opportunities, and after a name change, Pizza Factory signs began appearing everywhere.

The Phelan connection

Brian Lombardi was stationed at Norton Air Force Base in San Bernardino. He loved to ski and drove through Phelan to reach the slopes at Mountain High.

His father and brother owned a Pizza Factory in Kingsburg. He knew Phelan was the perfect location for a Pizza Factory where area diners, hungry skiers, and snowboarders could enjoy a great meal in a fun atmosphere.

He and his wife Kim eventually owned 14 Pizza Factory locations, but today they have Pizza Factory Phelan with son Vince Lombardi at the helm.

Learning the business from scratch

Vince was born into the business.

He appreciates his history with the pizzeria and is proud of having hired many employees from local schools. He enjoys seeing second generations stop by for a meal and greets parents who show their kids where they held their first jobs.

His daughter, two-and-a-half-year-old Violet, knows all about Pizza Factory. Vince is an expert in hand-tossing dough and welcomes crowds from school sports events or Phelan Phun Days to sit down and enjoy a tasty meal. A pizza-eating contest is another way Pizza Factory Phelan adds to the “Phelan phun.”

Made from scratch 

From dough to the signature sauce, real mozzarella, and other freshly prepared ingredients for toppings, salads, sandwiches, and more, Pizza Factory Phelan makes every order with attention to detail and a flair for presentation. Whether arriving at your door in a pizza box or presented on a pan at your table, your order will please.

Vince Lombardi catches the crust for an extra large pizza at the Pizza Factory in Phelan.
Vince Lombardi catches the crust for an extra large pizza at the Pizza Factory in Phelan.

A comprehensive menu

Pizza prices start at $9. A dozen pizzas options include the Diamondback (Factory) Special, with pepperoni, fresh mushrooms, ham, onions, green bell pepper, and real bacon. Sizes range from Mini (four slices) to Extra Large (12 slices), and additional toppings like veggies and meats to “extra flavor options” like Feta cheese, Anchovies, and crust thickness choices further customize your order.

Sandwiches are $10, served on an 8-inch French roll, and include Meatballs, Sausage, BBQ Chicken, Deli, Veggie, and more.

Calzone, baked to perfection, comes Individually or Large (for two) in Combo, Veggie, or Custom options.

A full range of fountain, bottled, and water drinks are available, plus premium draft beers and wine.

Giving back to the community

Pizza Factory Phelan offers club fundraising opportunities and is a popular field trip destination for area schools and groups. Other “recipes for success” are daily lunch specials, weekday lunch buffets, and a positive family atmosphere for a great eating experience.

Whether you want to “stay in your pajamas and have pizza delivered” or dine in, Pizza Factory Phelan will make it happen. Everything considered ─ gluten-free and cauliflower crust options, an imaginative menu with custom choices ─ Pizza Factory Phelan aims to make your pizza experience unforgettable.

When you go

Pizza Factory Phelan, 3936 Phelan Rd Ste. B-17, Phelan. 760-868-6543. Open Sunday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Closing times are flexible, so call to confirm. Lunch buffet Monday through Friday. Daily lunch specials. Phone-in, online or at-the-counter ordering. Online menu. Curbside pickup. Dine in. Visit Facebook, Instagram, Yelp, and Twitter. Gift cards are available. Party/meeting room available. www.pizzafactory.com/phelan,

If you would like your restaurant profiled in Dining Around or want to tell readers about your favorite eatery, please contact Kathy Young by text/voicemail at 760-953-8682 or by email at kaynhuey@aol.com.

This article originally appeared on Victorville Daily Press: Pizza Factory in Phelan serves hand-tossed pies made from scratch