Best Pizza in Shoreview The Legendary Papa (Owner Dave) Pizza Story – Created in 1996 at Mansetti's!

The Inspiring Journey of Owner Dave

Creator of the Legendary Papa Pizza at Mansetti's Shoreview

Hey everyone, it's Owner Dave here from Mansetti's Pizza & Pasta in Shoreview, Minnesota. If you've ever sunk your teeth into one of our award-winning pizzas, you might have wondered about the story behind the magic. Today, I'm excited to share my personal journey—from a teenage employee slinging dough to the proud owner of this beloved neighborhood spot. At the heart of it all is the Papa Pizza (also known as the Owner Dave Pizza), a quirky, flavor-packed creation that's become a staple for pizza lovers in Shoreview and beyond. This isn't just a pizza; it's a piece of history, innovation, and community spirit. Let's dive into how it all started, why it's so special, and how you can experience it for yourself. Whether you're searching for the best pizza in Shoreview or curious about local pizza history, stick around—this story is for you.

From High School Hustle to Pizza Passion: My Early Days at Mansetti's

My adventure with Mansetti's Pizza & Pasta began back in 1994 when I was just a 17-year-old high school kid at Mounds View High School, looking for a part-time gig. Shoreview was my hometown, and Mansetti's—located at 3999 Rice Street—was right around the corner. Little did I know that walking through those doors would set the course for my entire life. I started with the basics: bussing tables, washing dishes, and helping out wherever needed. But it didn't take long for me to gravitate toward the kitchen.

There's something mesmerizing about pizza-making—the rhythm of kneading dough, the aroma of fresh sauce, and the endless possibilities with toppings. By 1996, I was fully immersed, experimenting with flavors and pushing the boundaries of traditional pizza. That's the year I graduated from Mounds View High School, but it was also a pivotal moment for my culinary creativity. As an employee, I had the freedom to tinker, and that's when the seeds of the Papa Pizza were planted.

Mansetti's had already been a Shoreview fixture since 1986, known for its thin-crust masterpieces and Italian-inspired dishes. But I wanted to add something unique, something that reflected my quirky personality and love for bold combinations. Working alongside the team, I started testing new ideas, drawing from everyday ingredients that could elevate a simple pie into something extraordinary. This hands-on experience not only honed my skills but also deepened my connection to the community. Shoreview residents loved our food, and I loved being part of their Friday night traditions, post-game celebrations, and family gatherings.

The Birth of the Papa Pizza: Innovation in 1996

Fast forward to 1996—the year everything changed for me and for pizza in Shoreview. As a young pizza enthusiast, I was always on the lookout for ways to surprise our customers. One day, inspiration struck: Why not combine the tangy zip of yellow banana peppers with the smoky, savory punch of American bacon? It was an unconventional pairing at the time, but I knew it had potential. We added yellow peppers and American bacon to the menu, and the response was immediate. Customers raved about the tangy kick from the peppers cutting through the rich, crispy bacon. It was fresh, exciting, and unlike anything else out there.

But I didn't stop there. Building on that base, I layered in Canadian bacon for an extra layer of hearty flavor—think of it as bacon's sophisticated cousin. Then came the green olives, adding a briny, salty twist that balanced the richness perfectly. Finally, sweet onions provided a subtle crunch and sweetness, tying it all together on our signature thin crust, topped with melty mozzarella and our house-made sauce. The result? The Papa Pizza, a quirky delight that's savory, tangy, salty, and sweet all in one bite.

This creation wasn't just about taste; it was about innovation. In 1996, pizza menus were pretty standard—pepperoni, sausage, maybe some veggies. But the Papa Pizza stood out, reflecting my odd sense of humor and willingness to experiment. It quickly became a hit among locals, drawing in crowds from Roseville, Arden Hills, and even further afield in the Twin Cities area. People came to Mansetti's specifically for this one-of-a-kind pie, and it put us on the map as a go-to spot for creative pizza in Shoreview.

Taking the Reins: Buying Mansetti's in 2001

Cementing the Papa Pizza Legacy

By 2001, I'd spent seven years at Mansetti's, rising through the ranks and gaining invaluable insights into operations. When the opportunity to buy the restaurant arose, I jumped at it. At 24 years old, becoming the owner was a dream come true. It wasn't just a business decision; it was about preserving a legacy while infusing it with my vision.

One of my first moves as owner was to officially add the Papa Pizza to the permanent menu—if it wasn't already a mainstay. (As an employee, I'd been pushing it as a special, but now it was front and center.) Renaming it the "Papa (Owner Dave) Pizza" was my way of owning the creation, quirky name and all. Since then, it's become one of our top sellers, earning rave reviews for its bold flavors.

Under my ownership, Mansetti's has flourished. We've won multiple awards, including Best Pizza in Shoreview in 2020 and 2023, Best Italian Restaurant, and even Best Lasagna for our Mama's Lasagna. In 2011, we were featured on Twin Cities Live, shining a spotlight on our thin-crust expertise. But awards aside, it's the community that keeps me going. I still make nearly every pizza myself, ensuring that personal touch. From sponsoring Mounds View High School events to providing pies for local fundraisers, Mansetti's is more than a restaurant—it's a Shoreview institution.

Why the Papa Pizza Remains a Shoreview Favorite in 2026

As we celebrate our 40th anniversary in 2026, the Papa Pizza stands as a testament to timeless innovation. Its ingredients—yellow banana peppers, American bacon, Canadian bacon, green olives, sweet onions, mozzarella, and our signature sauce on thin crust—create a symphony of flavors that's hard to beat. It's perfect for adventurous eaters or anyone craving the best bacon pizza in Shoreview.

What sets it apart? Freshness. We use only high-quality, locally sourced toppings, baked in our brick oven for that perfect crisp. Pair it with our garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal. And if you're gluten-sensitive, we offer options to customize.

Customers often tell me stories of how the Papa Pizza has become part of their traditions—family movie nights, birthday parties, or even date nights. One reviewer called it "the quirkiest, most delicious pizza in the Twin Cities," and I couldn't agree more.

Join the Mansetti's Family: Try the Papa Pizza Today

If you haven't tried the Papa (Owner Dave) Pizza yet, what are you waiting for? Swing by Mansetti's Pizza & Pasta at 3999 Rice Street in Shoreview, or order online for takeout or delivery through DoorDash. We're open daily, ready to serve up slices of history. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to Shoreview pizza, this pie will leave you hooked.

Thanks for reading my story—it's been an incredible ride, and I'm grateful for every customer who's made it possible. Got questions about our menu or want to share your own Mansetti's memories? Drop a comment below or stop in to chat. Here's to more years of great pizza in Shoreview!

Owner Dave