Organ Stop Pizza takes dinner-and-a-show to the next level.
They’ve been serving up pies for over 40 years with a special twist. Organ Stop is home to the world’s largest Wurlitzer Theatre Organ. Originally built for the Denver Theatre in the 1920s, it was moved to the Mesa location in 1975, where it was rebuilt and it is now a popular attraction.
Jack Barz, co-owner at Organ Stop Pizza, says the original owner was a real estate developer who opened up the first location in 1972.
“He wanted to combine his love for pizza and the theatre organ into one venue and opened up the first location in Phoenix,” Barz says.
A small number of people have the training and experience to perform on the Wurlitzer, including longtime organists Charlie Balogh, Lew Williams and Donna Parker. They have played everything from “Under the Sea” from Disney’s “The Little Mermaid” to “Phantom of the Opera.”
Barz says what keeps people coming back year after year is the fact that the entertainment and food is enjoyed by all generations. You can feed the family for around $20 and listen to classics on the world’s largest theatre organ at no charge.
“I think it’s a one-of-a-kind instrument and it’s also one of the few places that you can take the entire family where everybody enjoys it. Everyone from 2 to 102 seems to really enjoy being here,” Barz says.
The dining room seats over 700 people, and with a 6,000 pipe organ, it definitely sounds more like a theatre than a restaurant when you start to hear the mighty Wurlitzer play in the background.
While you’re enjoying the show, order one of their specialty pizzas with choices like Hawaiian or Spicy Italian. Some are even available gluten free! If you’re in the mood for something else, they also have appetizers, pastas, sandwiches and salads.
This Arizona mainstay is worth checking out, especially if you’re a longtime resident who’s yet to experience this now-legendary landmark.
Organ Stop Pizza, 1149 E. Southern Avenue, Mesa, 480.813.5700, organstoppizza.com
