It’s OK to be demanding at MOD Pizza, a fast casual restaurant on Showplace Drive in the Naperville Crossings plaza.
In fact, it’s required.
“MOD is an acronym for ‘made on demand,” said Aurora resident and MOD Pizza general manager Peter Nielsen. “Our guests have the ability to literally build their own pizza, exactly how they want it, and we don’t charge extra for that. We make sure we provide a great atmosphere and environment for our guests every time they visit.”
Since May, MOD Pizza has been serving up delicious pizzas and salads at their south Naperville location.
Here’s the scoop on this cool new spot.
What’s on the menu? MOD serves individual artisan-style pizzas and hand-tossed salads that are made on demand, using fresh pressed dough and signature sauces, and a huge choice of fresh ingredients. Customers create their own pizzas and salads, using any combination of 30 featured toppings, or they can choose from a menu of MOD classics. The menu is rounded out with handspun milkshakes, lemonades and iced teas, and local draft beers and wine.
About the owners: Seattle based MOD Pizza was founded in 2008 by Scott and Ally Svenson, and was “inspired by the couple’s love of Italian street-style pizza, their desire for authentic, affordable and fast dining options for their busy family.” Besides Naperville, MOD has 64 locations around the country including Illinois locations in Elmhurst and Deerfield, with a Bloomingdale store opening soon. Aurora resident Peter Nielsen is the general manager of the Naperville company-owned store.
A mission statement or philosophy: To serve great, individual, artisan-style pizzas and salads at one great price, in a cool, friendly environment.
What’s the decor like? Modern and bright, MOD has a cool vibe that is ideal for a family meal, a feast with friends or a date night. The MOD photo wall greets visitors as they enter, and includes images of MOD employees and local icons, like the Park District and area high schools. Nielsen said the wall is a signature piece at all MOD locations, and it provides a bit of local flavor.
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Food specialties: You choose what’s special because you’re the boss when it comes to every MOD pizza. With dozens of toppings to choose from, it’s easy — and fun — to create the perfect pizza and salad combinations. Pizzas are cooked in an 800-degree oven in about 3 minutes, and salads are individually hand-tossed for each customer.
We’re different because: Manager Peter Nielsen said MOD Pizza fits into the “fast casual” niche, and when it comes to pizza, it’s the best of both worlds. For a set price, build your own pizza and they’ll have it ready for you in minutes. It’s also a perfect location for date nights, he said, because of its proximity to the movie theater.
Extras: MOD offers patio seating when the weather permits, with ample tables and umbrellas. For those who want to grab a quick bite and a glass of wine, it’s a comfortable spot to people watch as well.
Price range: Build an 11-inch pizza or MOD salad for under $8, or enjoy a mini pizza or mini salad for under $5. Want extra toppings or a little of everything? No problem. The price always remains the same regardless of the number of toppings.
Logistics: MOD Pizza is at 2835 Showplace Drive in Naperville Crossings plaza, just across the parking lot from AMC Showplace Naperville 16. They are open Sunday through Thursday from 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. Call 630-946-0300 or visit modpizza.com/locations/south-naperville
Jane Donahue is a freelance writer.