The Heart Behind Davanni's
From a single kitchen in Minnesota to a beloved neighborhood institution — we've always believed that great food starts with honest ingredients and genuine care.
A Family Tradition
Built on Real Food
Davanni's was founded on a simple belief: that food made with fresh, quality ingredients and prepared with care doesn't need to be complicated. Since our earliest days in Minnetonka, Minnesota, we've been feeding families, friends, and neighbors with the same warmth and dedication we'd bring to our own tables.
Every recipe we serve carries decades of refinement — shaped by feedback from our community, the seasons, and a relentless commitment to getting it right. We don't cut corners. We use real cheese, freshly prepared dough, and sauces made in-house every day.
Our story isn't just about pizza and hoagies. It's about building a place where people feel genuinely welcome, where the food is always consistent, and where you leave a little happier than when you walked in.
Our Mission & Values
Everything we do flows from a set of principles we've held since day one — and we're not changing them anytime soon.
Fresh Ingredients
We source quality produce and proteins daily. No frozen shortcuts — every dish starts with ingredients you can taste the difference in.
Community First
We're not just a restaurant — we're a neighbor. We show up for local events, schools, and organizations because this community is our home.
Consistent Quality
Whether it's your first visit or your five-hundredth, your food should taste exactly as great. We build habits of excellence, not just occasional wins.
Genuine Hospitality
Warmth isn't a policy here — it's who we are. We hire people who genuinely enjoy making others feel welcome, cared for, and valued.
Four Decades of Flavor
From a humble beginning to a Minnesota institution — here are the milestones that shaped who we are.
The First Location Opens
Dave and Annie Mooty open the first Davanni's in Hopkins, Minnesota, with a menu focused on hand-tossed pizza and fresh hoagies. Word spreads fast.
Expanding Across the Twin Cities
Growing demand leads to the opening of four new locations across the Twin Cities metro area. The community response exceeds every expectation.
The Catering Program Launches
Davanni's officially launches a dedicated catering service, bringing the same fresh food to corporate events, weddings, and community gatherings across Minnesota.
Recipe Refinement Initiative
The culinary team undertakes a full recipe review, sourcing even better ingredients and refining techniques to ensure every dish reflects the Davanni's standard.
Online Ordering Goes Live
Davanni's embraces digital ordering, making it easier than ever for customers to get their favorite meals delivered or ready for pickup from any location.
A New Chapter Begins
Davanni's continues to grow — launching new menu innovations, expanding the franchise program, and doubling down on the community values that started it all.
Meet Our Team
Behind every great meal is a group of people who genuinely love what they do. Here are a few of the faces that make Davanni's run.
With over 18 years at Davanni's, Marcus has been the steady hand behind our operations. He believes that a great restaurant runs on trust — with the team and with the guests.
Sofia trained in Chicago before joining Davanni's a decade ago. She leads recipe development and ensures every item on the menu meets the freshness and quality standards our guests expect.
James coordinates Davanni's community outreach and catering events. His passion for connecting people through food is contagious — and it shows in every event he runs.
Priya champions the guest experience at every touchpoint — from the first order to the last bite. She turns feedback into action and makes sure every visit is a great one.
Ready to Taste the Difference?
Our food speaks for itself. Place your order today and experience what makes Davanni's a Minnesota favorite for over 40 years.