Pizza with a Purpose: New Take and Bake Location Opens in Ridgeland
In the charming town of Ridgeland, a fresh pizza experience has just arrived, and it’s not just about filling your stomach but filling a community need. Aaron Bonner, the owner of the new Papa Murphy’s Pizza located at 46 Terrace Dr., has a mission that goes beyond simply selling delicious pies. With the doors officially opened on July 25, Bonner is ready to serve up more than just gourmet pizzas—he aims to give back and become an integral part of the Lowcountry community.
A New Concept for the East Coast
For those unfamiliar, Papa Murphy’s offers a unique take on pizza; it’s a take and bake concept that has recently made its way to the East Coast. Instead of cooking pizzas on-site, Bonner prepares each pizza with fresh dough and a variety of toppings, allowing customers to bake it in their ovens at home. This provides an opportunity for families to enjoy the freshest pizza possible, straight from their dining table. “This concept is a game-changer. You get the aroma of fresh pizza baking right in your kitchen, and it tastes like it’s fresh out of the oven,” Bonner explained.
High-Quality Offerings
At no point does the quality compromise with the take and bake model. Bonner emphasizes that the pizzas not only offer high gourmet standards but also fit within important nutritional guidelines. This means they are suitable for schools and other organizations, making it an excellent choice for families looking for healthier dining options.
A Transition to Ridgeland
Bonner, originally from Denver, Colorado, relocated to Ridgeland when his wife Kristina received orders to serve as a dentist at Parris Island. A marine veteran himself, he dedicated ten years as a Navy rescue swimmer and an additional twelve years as a Naval flight officer. With such a background, it’s easy to see how Bonner is inclined to pursue community involvement with gusto. “The military taught me the value of leadership and communication, both with customers and employees. It’s about building a strong team and a welcoming atmosphere,” he said.
Community Involvement is a Priority
Bonner’s desire to contribute to the community is palpable. He shares that he comes from a humble background, and his parent’s struggles have driven his passion to give back. Through his partnership with Papa Murphy’s, he hopes to participate in various fundraisers, showing genuine care for local needs. “I want to completely involve the community in the business. Whether it’s through donating to causes or hosting fundraising events, we want to be an active part of the Ridgeland community,” Bonner expressed.
A Strong Start
It seems that the community is ready to embrace this new venture. According to Ray Zandi, the Vice President of U.S. Business Development for Papa Murphy’s, the Ridgeland location has begun with robust sales. “Papa Murphy’s has a solid reputation, especially among military personnel who are moving into this area. People are thrilled to have access to our pizzas,” Zandi remarked.
Future Plans for Expansion
Looking ahead, Bonner has great aspirations for growth. He currently operates with a committed team of 17 employees, and he’s got plans to expand into the Beaufort area in the future. With a vision focused on community, Bonner believes his branch of Papa Murphy’s can thrive not just as a pizza place, but as a pillar of support for local initiatives.
For pizza lovers in Ridgeland, the arrival of Papa Murphy’s is more than just a new dining option. It represents a community-driven effort to ensure that craft and care go into every meal, making every bite not just tasty but meaningful.
