In 1990, Phil believed his creative, quality pizza concept would be a welcome addition to the Burlington pizza landscape. For more than 30 years, he has been proven right with customers continuing to enjoy his innovative flavor combinations. Although many of his combinations were unheard of, they quickly became some of the company’s most popular specialty pies. From Gorgonzola Gourmet to Fennel Sausage Gourmet to Goat Cheese Honey Pie - Phil’s delight in good food is the cornerstone of our business.
With his daughter, Sara, and son-in-law, Kelly, by his side, Phil’s award-winning pizza has captured the hearts and stomachs of thousands of people throughout Vermont and Maine. The company’s focus on philanthropy is renowned and aligns with the family’s belief that business has a responsibility to give back to its community. With every slice, you know you are not only investing in a quality product, you are also investing in good business. We wouldn’t have it any other way.
Phil George, founder of Leonardo’s (on the right) begins his entrepreneurial career with his brother, Doug, in Barre, VT. Chocolate milk, anyone?
Phil opens his first Leonardo’s Pizza store at 83 Pearl Street in Burlington, offering creative, quality pizza for carry out and delivery. The company’s choice of whole wheat or white crust made with King Arthur Flour is an immediate sensation. This flagship store is still serving the Burlington community today.
Phil opens his second location at 1160 Williston Road in South Burlington. This expands Leonardo’s delivery area to South Burlington, Winooski and parts of Williston and Colchester. Phil continues to develop mouth-wateringly delicious specialty combinations.
After a career with Gap, Inc, Phil’s daughter, Sara, moves back to VT and joins the family business. Soon thereafter, Phil’s son-in-law, Kelly, is welcomed into the Leonardo’s fold.
The Leonardo’s family chooses Portland, Maine for its third location. Known for its wonderful people, outdoor beauty and thriving food scene, the Portland community welcomes Leonardo’s with open arms. Soon thereafter, Leonardo’s 12 Months of Giving is launched to further support the Portland community.
Vermont’s Seven Days newspaper creates the Best Pizza Delivery category with its locally picked Daysie awards. Leonardo’s wins the inaugural award and has been honored with it each year since.
Leonardo’s celebrates its 20th anniversary with a brand new logo, created by Lee Wakerley at FOP Design & Illustration. Although it was hard to let the magenta go, the new look more accurately represents the brand Leonardo’s has become.
Leonardo’s is named Business of the Year by the Lake Champlain Regional Chamber of Commerce. They are recognized for not only the quality of their business, but for their enduring commitment to their employees and community.
