The pandemic didn't stop a new pizza place from opening in Santa Maria.
Mountain Mike’s Pizza opened its doors in the Crossroads Plaza at 2228 S. Bradley Rd.
It’s the second Santa Maria location for the family-style chain, which first opened more than 40 years ago in Palo Alto and is known for its large pizzas and curly pepperoni.
Co-owner Larry Beatty says they know the challenge of opening a new business during the pandemic, adding they feel they have the ability to make the necessary changes to make things work.
"We hope that people will come in here and they will feel the embrace, they'll feel the comfort and what better way to serve a big slice of pizza, big pizza pie, from rim to rim," Beatty said.
Under CDC guidelines, employees are required to wear masks and gloves due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Sections of the new dining room are also blocked off so customers can spread out inside.
The 3,500-square-foot space also includes party and arcade rooms for children that can be used when the county moves into a lower COVID-19 tier, along with an outdoor patio.
The other Santa Maria Mountain Mike’s location at 729 N. Broadway opened last fall.
