Marcus Rivera
Co-founder with over 18 years of culinary experience. Marcus is the creative force behind Punch pizza's signature recipes and bold flavor profiles.
We are passionate about punch pizza crafted with love, premium ingredients, and a commitment to bringing bold, authentic flavors to every table in United States. Discover who we are, what drives us, and the people who make it all happen.
Punch pizza was born in 2014 from a simple but powerful idea: that great pizza should be accessible, honest, and packed with bold flavor. Our founders, lifelong food lovers based in Apple Valley, Minnesota, started with a single wood-fired oven and a handful of carefully sourced recipes passed down through generations.
What began as a neighborhood spot quickly grew into something much bigger. Word spread about our signature punch pizza — distinctive, crave-worthy, and unlike anything else in the area. Guests kept coming back, and each plate became a story of craft and passion.
Today, Punch pizza serves thousands of happy customers across United States, staying true to the original vision: fresh ingredients, generous portions, and a dining experience that leaves a lasting impression.
Everything we do at Punch pizza is guided by a clear purpose — to deliver exceptional food experiences rooted in quality and community.
To craft extraordinary punch pizza experiences using premium, responsibly sourced ingredients that delight every guest, every single time.
To become the most beloved pizza destination in the United States — a place where great food brings people together, one slice at a time.
We are committed to eco-friendly practices, sourcing local produce, minimizing waste, and giving back to the communities we serve.
We invest in people — our team, our guests, and our neighborhood — building lasting relationships that go beyond the dining table.
Our values aren't just words on a wall — they shape every decision we make, every ingredient we choose, and every experience we create.
We never cut corners. Every ingredient is hand-selected, every recipe is tested, and every dish is crafted to meet our exacting standards before it reaches your table.
Cooking is more than a job for us — it's a calling. Our team pours genuine love and creativity into every pizza, ensuring each bite tells a story.
From ingredient sourcing to pricing, we believe our guests deserve full transparency. What you see on the menu is exactly what you get — no surprises.
We respect tradition but embrace innovation. Our seasonal specials and limited-edition creations keep the menu exciting and guests coming back to discover what's new.
Our kitchen follows the strictest food safety protocols. We maintain clean, safe, and welcoming spaces because your health and wellbeing always come first.
Every interaction with Punch pizza should leave you smiling. We train our team to treat every guest like family, because that's exactly how we see you.
Our passionate team of culinary professionals, operators, and service experts share one common goal — making your Punch pizza experience unforgettable.
Co-founder with over 18 years of culinary experience. Marcus is the creative force behind Punch pizza's signature recipes and bold flavor profiles.
Sofia keeps every aspect of Punch pizza running like clockwork. Her dedication to seamless service and team culture is the backbone of our daily operations.
James is the artisan behind our perfect crusts. With a decade of experience in artisan baking, he ensures every base is crispy, light, and full of character.
Amara leads our front-of-house experience, ensuring every guest who walks through our door feels welcomed, valued, and ready to return.
Interested in joining our growing team?
View Open PositionsFrom a humble kitchen startup to a celebrated culinary destination — here's how Punch pizza grew into the brand it is today.
Marcus Rivera and his partner open the first Punch pizza kitchen in Apple Valley, Minnesota. Starting with six signature recipes and a wood-fired oven, the small space becomes an instant local hit.
Punch pizza is recognized as Apple Valley's "Best New Restaurant." The growing reputation for bold, punch pizza flavors draws customers from across the Twin Cities metro area.
We launch our digital ordering platform, making it easier than ever to enjoy Punch pizza at home. Within the first month, online orders account for 30% of total sales.
During a challenging year for the industry, Punch pizza pivots to contactless delivery and curbside pickup. Community support is overwhelming and reinforces our commitment to serving United States.
We open a second location and expand the menu to 35+ items, including vegan and gluten-free options. Sofia Chen joins as Operations Manager, transforming our internal culture.
Punch pizza celebrates 10 years of serving the community. With over 50,000 happy customers and a 4.8-star rating, we're proud of our journey and excited for what's next.
Now that you know our story, it's time to experience it for yourself. Order your favorite punch pizza today and discover why thousands of customers keep coming back.