When considering dining options in Mesa, AZ, few places stand out as much as Organ Stop Pizza. Known worldwide for housing the largest Wurlitzer theatre pipe organ, this restaurant offers far more than just food. It is an entertainment venue that skillfully blends delicious pizza with live, captivating organ music, creating an experience unlike any other. For over 50 years, Organ Stop Pizza has been a key cultural destination in Mesa, drawing visitors from across Arizona and beyond who appreciate both culinary and musical artistry.
This restaurant offers a rare combination of dining and live performance that is hard to find anywhere else. The featured Mighty Wurlitzer pipe organ presents nightly shows with a repertoire that ranges from classical tunes to popular Disney songs and movie themes. Enhanced by lights, dancing marionettes, and a light show, the performances add a sensory dimension to the dining experience that captivates people of all ages. Organ Stop Pizza has become a hallmark for those seeking a memorable night out in Mesa.
A Rich History Behind the Scenes
Organ Stop Pizza first opened in 1972 in Phoenix, Arizona, with a vision conceived by William P. Brown, a passionate enthusiast of theatre organs. The Mesa location followed in 1975 as part of an expansion that brought this unique entertainment concept to a broader audience. The star attraction is the Mighty Wurlitzer, initially built in 1927 for the Denver Theatre and expanded over time. Weighing in at 8,000 pounds, this massive instrument features over 6,000 pipes and is played nightly from an impressive hydraulic elevator stage that rises 10 feet above the dining room.
Source: organstoppizza.com
Despite the dwindling number of pizza-and-pipes venues in the United States, Organ Stop Pizza in Mesa continues to thrive by staying true to its original concept. It has evolved while maintaining its identity as a destination where music is the centerpiece, not just background noise. The restaurant’s ability to attract a diverse audience—families, tourists, and music lovers—speaks to the timeless appeal of combining great pizza with live organ performances.
Dining Offerings That Cater to All Palates
The dining experience at Organ Stop Pizza goes well beyond the music. Guests can build their own pizzas with unlimited toppings or choose from specialty options. The menu also features a variety of pastas, appetizers, sandwiches, and a salad bar, ensuring a wide range of choices. To complement the food, the restaurant offers a selection of soft drinks, beer, and wine, making it suitable for all ages and preferences. The ordering system is designed for convenience, with customers picking up their meals by matching their number to a light display, allowing them to relax and enjoy the entertainment.
Source: organstoppizza.com
Although primarily known for its signature pizza, Organ Stop Pizza welcomes repeat visits by offering more than just a meal—it provides a lively atmosphere and serves as a community gathering spot. Whether hosting birthday parties, family nights, or casual dinners, this venue invites patrons to experience something out of the ordinary in Mesa’s dining scene.
A Community Celebration Worth Noting
Organ Stop Pizza marked its 50th anniversary by offering special meal deals and continuing to serve as a beloved local institution. With over 300,000 visitors annually, it’s clear that the restaurant holds a meaningful place in the hearts of many Mesa residents and visitors. While no business is without challenges, Organ Stop Pizza encourages people to explore their distinctive offerings and join in the enduring tradition of music and pizza.
This restaurant’s combination of history, entertainment, and food creates an experience that resonates with multiple generations. It provides a unique setting where nostalgia meets present-day fun, making it a recognizable symbol of Mesa’s rich cultural landscape.
Source: organstoppizza.com
Organ Stop Pizza in Mesa, AZ, is more than just a pizza restaurant. It is a living museum of a musical tradition that few other places in the world can rival. Its Mighty Wurlitzer pipe organ—largest of its kind—creates an immersive audio-visual performance that enhances the dining experience and keeps people coming back, whether one visits for the music, the menu, or the community atmosphere. Organ Stop Pizza offers a fascinating glimpse into a slice of Americana that continues to thrive in modern Mesa.
For both residents and newcomers to Mesa, this restaurant provides an opportunity to experience local culture alongside delicious food. It stands as a reminder of the enduring power of live music and good company, wrapped in the warm and lively environment of a pizza parlor. Although it may not be a flawless business, it invites everyone to be part of its unique story, offering nights of entertainment and shared enjoyment in the heart of Mesa.
Sources: organstoppizza.com, Organ Stop Pizza Google My Business Page, Organ Stop Pizza Facebook Page
Header Image Source: Organ Stop Pizza Google My Business Page
