Mike Jensen
Co-Founder & Head Chef
With 20+ years of culinary experience, Mike developed our signature dough recipe and continues to innovate the menu. His ranch-style pizza philosophy defines everything we do.
15+
Signature Recipes
15+
Years of
Excellence
Excellence
Our Story
From a Family Dream to Your Favorite Destination
Pizza Ranch was born in 2009 when founders Mike and Carol Jensen combined their love for hearty ranch cooking with a passion for authentic Italian pizza. Opening their first location at 880 Lincoln Rd in Bettendorf, Iowa, they started with nothing more than a wood-fired oven, a handful of trusted recipes, and an unwavering commitment to quality.
What began as a neighborhood pizza spot quickly grew into a beloved community institution. The Jensens believed that great pizza starts with the best ingredients — fresh-milled flour for the dough, vine-ripened tomatoes for the sauce, and locally sourced toppings whenever possible. That philosophy hasn't changed in fifteen years.
Today, Pizza Ranch serves hundreds of happy customers every week, hosts community events, provides full catering services, and remains the go-to pizza destination in Bettendorf. Every slice we serve carries the same care and craft Mike and Carol put into that very first pie.
- Fresh dough made from scratch every single day
- Locally sourced ingredients from Iowa farms
- Family recipes refined over 15+ years
- Community-first philosophy and giving back
- Dine-in, takeout, delivery, and full catering
What Drives Us
Our Mission & Vision
We're guided by a simple belief: that food made with passion and integrity brings people together and makes communities stronger.
Our Mission
To serve authentic, ranch-crafted pizza that brings families and friends together around the table, made with honest ingredients and genuine care.
Our Vision
To be the most trusted, community-rooted pizza destination in Iowa — where every guest feels like part of the Pizza Ranch family.
Our Promise
Fresh dough daily, no shortcuts, no compromises. Every ingredient is chosen with care and every pizza is crafted to exceed your expectations.
Community First
We actively support local farms, schools, and charitable causes in Bettendorf — because a great restaurant is rooted in a strong community.
What We Stand For
Our Core Values
These are the principles that guide every decision we make — from the kitchen to the table to the community.
Uncompromising Quality
We use only the finest ingredients and never cut corners. Every pizza that leaves our kitchen must meet our exacting standards.
Genuine Hospitality
Every guest deserves a warm welcome and outstanding service. We treat every customer like family — because that's who we are.
Sustainability
We partner with local Iowa farms, reduce food waste, and make environmentally responsible choices at every step of our operation.
Innovation
While we honor tradition, we constantly explore new flavors, techniques, and menu ideas to keep your experience exciting and fresh.
Integrity
We are honest in all our dealings — with customers, staff, and suppliers. Trust is the foundation of everything we do at Pizza Ranch.
Team & Inclusion
Our team is our greatest asset. We foster a diverse, inclusive, and supportive workplace where everyone can grow and thrive.
Our Journey
A History of Craft & Community
From a single storefront to a beloved regional institution — here are the milestones that shaped Pizza Ranch.
2009
Grand Opening
Mike and Carol Jensen open the doors of Pizza Ranch at 880 Lincoln Rd, Bettendorf, Iowa. A 12-table restaurant with one wood-fired oven and a menu of eight carefully crafted pizzas. Lines form from day one.
2011
First Expansion
Growing demand leads to a full dining room renovation, doubling seating capacity to 60 guests. A dedicated prep kitchen is added, allowing for a richer, expanded menu including appetizers, salads, and house-made desserts.
2013
Catering & Delivery Launch
Pizza Ranch launches its full-service catering division and city-wide delivery service. We cater our first corporate event for 200 guests and receive glowing reviews, cementing our reputation for quality at scale.
2016
Iowa's Best Pizza Award
Pizza Ranch is recognized as "Best Pizza in Eastern Iowa" by the Iowa Hospitality Association. The award, voted on by customers and critics alike, brings a wave of new visitors and regional attention.
2019
10-Year Anniversary & Remodel
Celebrating a decade of serving the community, we complete a full restaurant remodel featuring an open kitchen concept, a private dining room for events, and a brand-new wood-burning oven imported from Naples, Italy.
2022
Digital Ordering Platform
We launch our own online ordering platform and loyalty program, making it easier than ever to enjoy Pizza Ranch at home. Over 5,000 customers sign up in the first month, and our digital orders exceed 30% of total revenue.
2024
Community Kitchen Initiative
Pizza Ranch launches its Community Kitchen program, donating meals to local schools and food banks every month. In our first year, we provide over 3,000 meals to families in need across Bettendorf and the Quad Cities.
Meet the Team
The People Behind Every Slice
Our talented and passionate team is what makes Pizza Ranch special. From the kitchen to the front of house, every member shares our commitment to excellence.
Carol Jensen
Co-Founder & Operations Director
Carol is the organizational heart of Pizza Ranch. She oversees daily operations, staff training, and our community partnerships — ensuring every guest experience is exceptional.
David Park
Executive Sous Chef
Trained in Chicago and Rome, David brings world-class technique to our kitchen. He leads the morning prep crew and is the mastermind behind our seasonal specialty menus.
Sofia Martinez
Customer Experience Manager
Sofia ensures every visit to Pizza Ranch is memorable. She manages front-of-house staff, oversees catering events, and champions our guest loyalty program with infectious enthusiasm.
Interested in joining our team?
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