A Golden Anniversary Slice: Celebrating Five Decades of Pizza King, Rushford's Heartbeat

You know, some places just stick. They become part of the very fabric of a town, a comforting constant in an ever-changing world. And for Rushford, Minnesota, that place is undoubtedly Pizza King. This year, if you can believe it, marks a truly incredible milestone: five decades of serving up that iconic, unforgettable cracker-thin crust, a half-century of community, laughter, and, yes, a whole lot of delicious pizza. It's quite a story, honestly.

It all began way back in 1974. Picture it: Delwin and Mary Lou Rubendall, a determined couple with a vision, opened their doors to what they then simply called “The Pizzeria.” Imagine the excitement, the fresh aroma of dough and sauce filling the air at 200 W. Jessie St. From those humble beginnings, a legacy was born. Then, sometime in the 1980s, perhaps with a growing reputation and a bit of playful ambition, the name shifted – “Pizza King” it became. And really, for many, it truly has reigned supreme.

Now, fast forward a few decades. The torch, as it often does, passed to the next generation. In 2007, Delwin and Mary Lou's son, Dan, alongside his wife, Janelle, took the reins. It’s a huge responsibility, stepping into such big shoes, especially when those shoes are already so beloved. But they did it, and they’ve continued to pour their hearts into maintaining the magic, honoring the tradition while, you know, keeping things fresh for today's diners.

What is it, you might ask, that makes Pizza King so special? Well, for many, it comes down to that crust. It's not just thin; it's cracker-thin. Crispy, delicate, and utterly unique, it's the perfect canvas for their signature sauce and generous toppings. And honestly, it’s the kind of pizza that sparks fervent loyalty. You talk to anyone who grew up in Rushford, or even just passed through, and they’ll likely have a story about “that pizza place” with the incredible crust. It's a taste memory, etched into their minds.

But beyond the fantastic food, Pizza King is more than just an eatery. It’s a hub, a gathering spot. Generations have celebrated birthdays there, shared first dates, and simply caught up with neighbors. You see parents bringing their children, who then bring their own children – a beautiful, delicious cycle of community connection. It’s a place where you feel a sense of belonging, a testament to the warmth that Dan and Janelle, following in Delwin and Mary Lou’s footsteps, have cultivated.

To mark this truly special 50th anniversary, the Rubendalls are doing something rather lovely. They’re hosting a celebration on Saturday, May 18, from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. at the restaurant. Expect some fantastic food specials, certainly, and a cake to mark the occasion. But more than that, it’s an invitation to come together, to share memories, and to toast to another half-century, perhaps, of Rushford's cherished Pizza King. Because in truth, it’s not just about pizza; it’s about family, community, and a legacy baked with love.