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7 Secrets Behind Me-N-Ed's: The California Pizza Legend Still Thriving In 2025

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The Me-N-Ed’s Pizza story is a classic American success tale, one that has been evolving for over 65 years, and as of the end of 2025, it remains a cultural institution, particularly across Central California. What started as a single pizza parlor in Sacramento has blossomed into a beloved regional chain, famous for its unique Original California-Style Pizza and a commitment to family-friendly dining. While many legacy brands struggle to adapt, Me-N-Ed’s continues to thrive by balancing nostalgic flavors with modern business savvy, thanks to the leadership of the Ferdinandi family.

The brand is instantly recognizable to millions, especially in the Fresno and Bakersfield areas, where its locations often serve as community hubs. From the iconic thin, crispy crust to the savory five-cheese blend and classic toppings like linguica and spicy cupped pepperoni, Me-N-Ed’s has cemented its place in the regional food landscape. This article dives into the essential facts, the current status, and the secrets that keep this legendary pizzeria a favorite.

The Founders and The Ferdinandi Legacy: A Full Biography

The history of Me-N-Ed’s is a tale of two distinct eras: the founding partnership and the modern family-run corporation that scaled the business into a regional powerhouse.

  • Original Founders (The "Me" and "Ed"): The company was founded in 1958 in Sacramento, California, by two friends: Russ "Me" Johnson and Ed Sandlin.
  • The Origin Story: Me-N-Ed’s was an offshoot of the popular Shakey's Pizza Parlors, with Russ Johnson being connected to the Shakey Johnson family.
  • The First Location: The first Me-N-Ed oven was fired up in Sacramento, establishing the foundation for the "Ye Olde Publick House" atmosphere.
  • The Modern Era Acquisition: The brand was eventually taken over and expanded by the Ferdinandi family, who are based in Fresno, California.
  • Key Figures in Modern Ownership: The parent company, Milano Restaurants International, is co-owned by the Ferdinandi brothers: John Ferdinandi and A. Tom Ferdinandi Jr.
  • Corporate Structure: John Ferdinandi serves as the CEO of Me-N-Ed's Pizzeria, leading the strategic direction and community involvement.
  • Franchise Footprint: The Ferdinandi brothers are responsible for the operation and franchising of approximately 60 Me-N-Ed’s locations across California.
  • Related Restaurant Concepts: Milano Restaurants International also owns or franchises other popular Central Valley restaurant concepts, including Piazza Del Pane, several Blast & Brew locations, and Me-n-Ed's Victory Grill.

Unpacking the Original California-Style Pizza

The core of the Me-N-Ed’s experience is its signature pizza, a distinct offering that sets it apart from New York, Chicago, or Neapolitan styles. This "Original California-Style Pizza" is not just a name; it’s a specific technical recipe perfected over decades.

The defining characteristic is the crust. It is famous for being exceptionally thin and remarkably crispy. This is achieved through a unique method that results in a golden-layered dough that holds up well to the toppings without becoming soggy. This thin-crust approach is a key reason for its loyal following in Central California.

The Anatomy of a Me-N-Ed's Classic

What goes on top of the golden-layered dough is just as important as the crust itself. The brand uses a specific combination of ingredients to create its iconic flavor profile:

  • The Sauce: A proprietary Original Red Sauce is used as the base for most classic pizzas.
  • The Cheese: A famous Five-Cheese Blend is a staple, providing a rich, savory layer that is distinct from standard mozzarella.
  • The Toppings: Me-N-Ed’s is known for high-quality, USDA choice meats, including savory salami, classic pepperoni, Canadian bacon, and the regional favorite, linguica. They also feature modern additions like Spicy Cupped Pepperoni.

The menu features a range of Signature Series pizzas that highlight these unique flavors. Popular choices include the meat-lover’s Classic All Meat, the fully loaded Classic Combination, and specialty pies like the Garlic Chicken Pizza (using garlic alfredo sauce) and the Spicy Hawaiian.

The Modern Me-N-Ed’s Experience and 2025 Updates

While the classic pizza remains the star, the modern Me-N-Ed’s, under the management of Milano Restaurants International, continues to innovate and expand its offerings and presence. The chain operates primarily in Central California cities like Fresno, Clovis, Bakersfield, and Lakewood, but its influence extends to coastal areas like Pismo Beach, and there is a separate, similarly named chain operating in Canada (Me-n-Ed's Pizza in Vancouver, BC).

Current Menu & Promotions

The menu has expanded beyond pizza to offer a complete dining experience, whether for dine-in, takeout, or delivery. Beyond the signature pizzas (Mini, Small, Medium, Large, and XL sizes), the current menu includes:

  • Appetizers: Popular starters include Me-n-Ed's Garlic Bread, Me-n-Ed's Cheese Bread, Ed's Bread, and Me-n-Ed's Chicken Wings.
  • Sandwiches: A selection of hearty, oven-baked gourmet sandwiches is available.
  • Salads: Fresh salads, such as the Green Tossed Salad, cater to lighter fare.
  • Current Specials: The chain consistently runs promotions to attract customers, such as the "2024 Special - Large 2 Topping" and seasonal deals like the "Summer Sizzle Sale".

The Pizzeria and Crafthouse Concept

In recent years, Me-N-Ed’s has introduced the "Pizzeria and Crafthouse" concept, particularly in locations like Clovis and San Luis Obispo. These locations offer the classic pizza alongside a well-stocked bar featuring local and regional craft beer. This move appeals to a broader adult demographic, offering a more modern, casual dining atmosphere while staying true to the original food quality.

Community and Corporate Responsibility

The Ferdinandi family and Milano Restaurants International are deeply involved in the local community. CEO John Ferdinandi has been noted for spearheading community outreach programs, such as helping to fulfill children's Christmas wishes. This dedication to "doing good" is part of the brand's legacy, which they refer to as "much more than our signature California Style Pizzas".

For fans new and old, Me-N-Ed’s remains a taste of California history. Its ability to maintain the quality of the Original California-Style Pizza while embracing modern dining trends and community involvement ensures its status as a Central Valley favorite well into 2025 and beyond.

7 Secrets Behind Me-N-Ed's: The California Pizza Legend Still Thriving in 2025
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