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Crust Above the Rest: Local Pizzeria Draws Big Flavor and Brings the Community Together
Published 1:20 pm Thursday, July 10, 2025
Little Pizza Paradise was born in 2004, the creation of Pete Wodja and his brother, inspired by the belief that great pizza and great local beer are a match made in heaven.
The first location opened in a humble 800-square-foot space on the east side of Bend, just down the road from Mountain View High School. Shortly after opening, Pete took his passion for pizza on the road—embarking on a three-month journey to Italy to learn the master craft of authentic pizza making. When he returned, he brought back not just inspiration, but the foundation of the menu we still serve today.
From the very beginning, quality ingredients have been at the core of Little Pizza Paradise. As the craft beer scene began heating up in the early 2000s, Pete dreamed of creating a space where locals could enjoy a cold, delicious craft beer made in Oregon—paired with a hot, handcrafted slice.
Today, Little Pizza Paradise proudly features 18 rotating taps of locally brewed craft beer and cider.
By 2012, it was clear that the original location couldn’t keep up with the growing demand. LPP found its new home in the Cascade Village Shopping Center, where we continue to serve our loyal customers today.
In 2022, after nearly two decades, Pete was ready to retire. But he wanted someone who shared his passion for quality, community, and great pizza to carry on his legacy. He found that in Brad Harris.
Brad apprenticed under Pete for six months, learning the art of dough, crust, and pizza-making. In February 2023, Brad officially took ownership of Little Pizza Paradise. He’s stayed true to Pete’s original recipes while adding a few new fan favorites of his own.
With over 25 years of experience as a chef, Brad brings not just skill, but a deep love for people, food, and local beer. His energy, hands-on leadership, and commitment to quality have taken LPP to the next level—earning it the reputation as Bend’s Best Pizzeria.
You’ll find Brad in the pizzeria every day—greeting guests, working with the kitchen team, and keeping the heart of Little Pizza Paradise alive and thriving.
Here’s to the next 20 years of great pizza, cold beer, and community in Bend, Oregon!
Located in the Cascade Village Shopping Center, 63455 N Hwy 97 in Bend. 541-312-2577 littlepizzaparadise.com