In the bright lights of Las Vegas, Yukon Pizza stands as a testament to the power of tradition and innovation. Born from a 128-year-old sourdough starter, this pizzeria is more than just a place to grab a slice; it’s a story of family, passion, and community.
Join us as we learn about the historic journey of Alex and his family, who have turned a cherished family heirloom into a thriving business.
The Roots of Yukon Pizza
The story of Yukon Pizza begins in the late 1800s during the Klondike Gold Rush. Alex’s great-great-grandfather, Gilbert, ran a general store in the Yukon Territory, where sourdough was a staple for miners. This heirloom starter traveled through generations, from the Yukon to Seattle, and eventually to Southern California, where it became a cherished family tradition.
Alex recalls Sundays filled with sourdough pancakes and biscuits, a tradition that would later inspire his own culinary journey.
Sourdough Pizza Passion Ignited
Alex’s love for pizza was ignited during his college years, where he hosted build-your-own pizza parties. However, it wasn’t until he discovered traditional Neapolitan pizza at Settebello in Las Vegas that he truly fell in love with the craft. This lightbulb moment led him to explore the world of home pizza making, experimenting with sourdough and wood-fired ovens long before the trend took off.
End of The World Pizza Parties
What began as a passion project soon evolved into a small side business. Alex hosted “end of the world” pizza parties on the outskirts of Las Vegas, where friends gathered to enjoy homemade pizzas and sunsets. As word spread, he began catering small events, and in 2017, Yukon Pizza was officially born.
The pandemic brought unexpected challenges, but it also provided an opportunity for Alex and his wife to connect with their community through backyard pizza pop-ups.
The Vegas Test Kitchen
A pivotal moment in Yukon Pizza’s journey came when Jolene Menina, a local restaurateur, invited Alex to join the Vegas Test Kitchen. This shared kitchen concept allowed Yukon Pizza to grow its operations and menu while keeping overhead low. It was here that Alex honed his skills, learning the ins and outs of running a restaurant with the support of his family and community.
A Family Owned & Operated Pizzeria
Yukon Pizza is a true family affair, with Alex’s wife, brother, and extended family all playing vital roles in the business. This close-knit team has been instrumental in the pizzeria’s success, allowing Alex to focus on his passion for pizza making. The menu reflects their commitment to quality and inclusivity, offering a range of vegan and vegetarian options alongside their signature sourdough pizzas.
As Yukon Pizza continues to thrive, Alex and his family are setting their sights on expansion. With plans for a second location in the works, they remain committed to their slow and steady approach, ensuring that each step is taken with care and consideration. Their goal is to create a lasting legacy, a neighborhood pizzeria that brings people together over a shared love of good food.
Celebrating Family Sourdough and Pizza
Yukon Pizza is more than just a pizzeria; it’s a celebration of family, tradition, and community. From its humble beginnings in the Yukon Territory to its current home in Las Vegas, this pizzeria embodies the spirit of innovation and resilience. As Alex and his family continue to share their passion for sourdough and pizza, they invite you to join them on this delicious journey.
Follow Yukon Pizza on Instagram @yukonpizza and visit their site: https://yukonpizza.com/
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