Natives of Park Rapids, they had been attending Bemidji State University while looking for a good place to open a business. The couple is not new to the pizza business, as Rocky’s parents own a pizza place “Rocky’s” in Park Rapids. In fact, the couple was enroute to Michigan to look at a pizza place when they spotted the for sale sign at Papa’s Pizza.
Their goal is to see all their customers are happy and want to come back. They offer “sit down dining” and will deliver orders to the table. They also provide free delivery service. Rocky makes all his own pizza dough and sauce and uses fresh vegetables. They have hired eight high school students as employees to help wait on customers.
Rocky’s is open Tuesday through Sunday during the winter months but will be open seven days a week summer months. The pizza place opens at 11 am., except on Sunday when they open at noon. Their menu includes pizza, burgers, subs, tacos, salads, spaghetti and meatballs, and more. They have a noon lunch special where customers can purchase a slice for lunch. Tuesdays feature spaghetti and meatballs.
“We are enjoying Paynesville. It has nice people and a small town atmosphere which we like,” Jessica said. The couple has a three-year-old daughter, Jordan.