Jack Bertram and his wife, Pat, opened the first Stuft Pizza in Cerritos, California in 1976. Jack experimented for close to nine months, developing the recipe for the pizza available today. Although the small store initially offered only take-out pizza, its emphasis on high-quality products led to its success. Jack and Pat opened their second store two years later in Whittier. The original over-the-counter concept continued to grow, and in 1986, Stuft Pizza became a franchise.
Unlike the franchisee-owned stores found outside the Coachella Valley, both Stuft Pizza Bar & Grill locations in the desert are unique. The Bertram Family owns and operates both the Old Town La Quinta and the Shops of Palm Desert.
The idea was to take the original concept “and put a fun spin on it.” What brought people to Stuft Pizza more than 45 years ago is still what brings people through its doors today. Under second-generation leadership, John Bertram and his team aim to deliver an extraordinary culinary experience every day.
“For our meat lovers,” said John Bertram, “Prime Rib and Pork Chops are two favorites.” He added that salmon and ahi tuna paired with wine offer healthy and fresh options this summer. “And the classic house pizza is a must-have,” he noted.
For more information, visit www.stuftpizza.com.
