Donatos’ Parrish Avenue location claimed the “Dough$ Maker (Traditional Pizza)” award after selling more pizzas than any other single restaurant during the inaugural Owensboro Times Pizza Week. Meanwhile, Donatos as a whole also earned “The People’s Slice” award, winning the community vote for favorite traditional pizza offering.
The “Dough$ Maker (Traditional Pizza)” award is sponsored by WBKR 92.5, while “The People’s Slice” award is sponsored by Barrel Heads Liquor Market & Tasting Bar.
Donatos’ dual honors came thanks to the Triple Triple Double, a 12-inch thin-crust pizza layered with a garlic Parmesan base, deli-shaved ham, chicken, bacon, smoked provolone, mozzarella, and Romano. It was finished with ranch and Mike’s Hot Honey drizzles, party cut, and served with optional crunchy dill pickles on the side.
“We were shocked that we won it,” said Marketing Director Leanna Byrne. “There was a great variety and strong competition, so we’re super excited.”
Byrne said the support was overwhelming, both in person and online.
“The love shown in our stores and on social media was truly touching,” she said. “We had customers that came in three times over the week. Our team worked so hard, and we’re so proud of our amazing staff and managers.”
She added that Pizza Week gave local businesses a positive boost at a time when it was especially needed.
“I think this is incredible for local businesses,” Byrne said. “With the economy and costs of food and just everything going on in the world right now, not only did the restaurants need it, but it gave people something fun to come together over.”
Donatos’ staff also enjoyed one of Pizza Week’s lighter traditions: trading pizzas with other restaurants. Byrne said they swapped with 24 other businesses during the week, giving the team a chance to connect with other owners and sample the competition.
“There was incredible competition. Every single one of them was delicious,” she said. “I personally visited 24 of the locations and was blown away by how positive, uplifting, and friendly everyone was. This felt like so much more than a contest. “t was a true community celebration, and that’s a win for everyone.”
Donatos has been a staple in Owensboro since opening its first local restaurant in 2016 at 2601 West Parrish Avenue, followed by a second location at 3415 New Hartford Road in 2019. The local franchise ownership is split among three families: Sean and Jennifer Byrne, Angela and Jason Curry, and Mark and Liane Riney. All three were raised in Owensboro or Hancock County and remain invested in the area.
