Gainesville residents will soon be able to catch a behind-the-scenes look at their pizza.
After reviewing requests on social media, Gator Domino’s on Archer Road will open the first pizza theater store in the nation Oct. 5, allowing customers to watch their pizzas go from raw dough to a steamy, cheesy pie.
Franchise owner Freddie Wehbe said he is working to make this Domino’s like no other in the world.
The 20-year-old restaurant has been under renovation since last year.
The store has also added indoor seating for 44 people, outdoor seating for 38, Wi-Fi inside and outside of the store and plug-in stations at every table, which was requested by students in a focus group, he said. The store is also extending its hours to 4 a.m.
He wanted to turn it into a family-friendly sports bar, complete with televisions where people can watch Gator football games.
"The change comes from a passion to be No. 1," Wehbe said. "It’s a competitive thing."
Wehbe said the two biggest requests for the store were a family-focused atmosphere and a sustainable store.
Consequently, Wehbe said, he added a community room to the store, one that has already been booked for nine birthday parties so far and uses eco-friendly products.
He declined to comment on the cost of the renovation.
Some students said they thought the changes were exciting, but the location still isn’t ideal.
"I think it’s going to bring a lot of people, but not for pizza," said Jordene West, 17, a UF accounting freshman. "If the bus doesn’t go there, I won’t."
Contact Brooke Baitinger at bbaitinger@alligator.org and follow her on Twitter @BaitingerBrooke
