The History of Gold Dust Pizza
From Ripon to Modesto: A Family Tradition
Gold Dust Pizza’s story began in 1984 with a small pizza parlor in Ripon, California. Founded by Bob Willey, a pioneer in handcrafted pizza and community-first dining, the business quickly became a cornerstone in the “Jewel of the Valley.” Today, with five locations across California—including Ripon, Sutter Creek, Oakdale, Copperopolis, and Modesto—we’re proud to serve communities with fresh ingredients, great food, and family-friendly dining.
A Family Legacy
Pizza Made with Love and Dedication
In 1999, Bob married Monica, and together they grew both their family and their vision for the business. Under their leadership, the Willey family expanded their efforts, with their children—Katie, Jeremiah, and Hannah—playing vital roles. Their passion and dedication helped Gold Dust Pizza grow into a brand known for quality and warm hospitality.
The Gold Rush Era
From Pizza Plus to Gold Dust Pizza
In 2011, the family opened their second location in Sutter Creek, marking the birth of the Gold Dust Pizza name. Inspired by California’s rich Gold Rush history, the name perfectly complements the Old West charm they envisioned for their pizzerias. As the business grew, they expanded to Oakdale in 2015 and Copperopolis in 2017, bringing handcrafted pizzas to more California communities.
Community at Our Core
Supporting Our Neighbors in Every Way
Gold Dust Pizza is deeply rooted in the communities it serves, including Stanislaus, San Joaquin, Amador, and Calaveras Counties. We support local schools, sports teams, and events while providing job opportunities to young people. Many of our employees learn teamwork, responsibility, and leadership that prepare them for successful careers—all while creating memorable dining experiences for our customers.
Embracing the Future
Gold Dust Pizza Express in Modesto
In November 2024, we launched Gold Dust Pizza Express in Modesto to meet the growing demand for convenient dining options. Focused on To-Go and Delivery, this newest location features our signature handcrafted menu alongside cutting-edge technology like online ordering and mobile apps. Download our app today in the Google Play Store or Apple App Store to enjoy your favorites on the go.
Continuing the Legacy
Crafting Pizza and Memories for Generations
Gold Dust Pizza remains a family-owned and operated business where Bob, Monica, and their children continue to work together with a dedicated team. Whether you’re dining in at one of our locations or enjoying a delivery at home, our mission is to create an unforgettable experience. From Ripon to Modesto and beyond, we’re proud to share our story and serve generations to come.