As we celebrate 15 years of our journey, we delve into the past, revisiting the defining moments that shaped Parker John’s. It was the spring of 2008. After a long day of work, Jen and Aaron Sloma’s stomachs yearned for a hot pizza delivered to their home. Given their geographical location outside of Kiel, options were limited — as in, there were none. Having driven past a tired old building almost daily, Jen felt it would be the perfect spot to open a small pizza place and offer delivery to Kiel and the outlying area. She’s quite persuasive, and not long after her initial thought the building was theirs. Named after their son, Parker John’s Pizza was born in October 2008. The first edition offered in-house dining, a game room and delivery to the surrounding area.
Fast forward three years and the country was deep in the recession. Family budgets tightened, resulting in dwindling in-house dining sales for Parker John’s. But one thing remained — constant delivery of pizza to homes and businesses in the Kiel area. It was at this time that Jen had another great idea. Drawing from their three years of restaurant work in the Kansas City area, the Slomas took the very few dollars they had and bought a smoker. The restaurant closed for two weeks, was remodeled and reopened as Parker John’s BBQ and Pizza. Since then, it’s been nothing but growth.
So why BBQ and pizza? The Slomas are believers in never forgetting where you came from. Parker John’s was built on pizza, so why take that away? Smoking meat became a passion, and they have dedicated their restaurants to kicking out some of the best smoked meats a person can find in Wisconsin.
Through the years, substantial transformations have taken place. While the menu has expanded, the dedication to crafting in-house sides, BBQ sauces and smoked meats has only deepened. Alongside their smoked meats, they’ve earned a reputation for remarkable all-you-can-eat nights, day-long happy hours, Bloody Marys so hearty they could suffice as a meal and an outstanding catering department.
It’s been 15 years since it all began. From that original location in Kiel, PJ’s was able to expand to Menasha, Sheboygan, Green Bay, Oshkosh and Appleton. You can also find us seasonally at EAA and at Road America in Elkhart Lake in the Paddock Concession stand. As we raise a toast to 15 years of accomplishments, challenges, awards and shared victories, we extend our sincere gratitude to our dedicated team, loyal patrons, and the vibrant communities that have been an integral part of our story.
Here’s to the past, present and the boundless possibilities that the future holds. Cheers to 15 years of success, and to the future locations waiting to be opened!
Locations in Appleton, Green Bay, Kiel, Menasha, Oshkosh, Sheboygan • parkerjohns.com
