We recently enjoyed visiting 5 Thirty-One Pizza & Phillies, a hidden gem in Gretna, Nebraska. Our journey to this locally owned and operated restaurant was driven by curiosity and the promise of experiencing something unique in the Omaha metro area. From the moment we stepped through the door, it was evident that 5 Thirty-One Pizza & Phillies is not just another pizzeria but a testament to the art of combining traditional flavors with innovative twists.
Where Tradition Meets Creativity
Upon entering 5 Thirty-One Pizza & Phillies, the first thing that strikes you is the inviting ambiance. Warm wood beams, exposed brick walls, and modern barn-style doors set the stage for a dining experience that is both cozy and contemporary. The historical photos of Gretna add a local charm, creating a space where families and foodies alike can feel at home.
The concept behind 5 Thirty-One Pizza & Phillies is refreshingly straightforward yet ambitious: to offer a limited menu of Pizza and Philly Cheesesteaks, each item meticulously crafted to perfection. This focused approach allows the culinary team to pour their passion and expertise into every dish, ensuring that each bite is a delightful experience.
The Philly Cheesesteak: Authenticity at Its Best
Let’s talk about the star of the show: the Philly Cheesesteak. At 5 Thirty-One Pizza & Phillies, authenticity is key. The sandwiches feature Amoroso’s hoagie rolls, sourced straight from Philadelphia. This bread is the gold standard for cheesesteaks, known for its crisp crust and soft, yet firm interior. It’s a detail that sets 5-Thirty-One apart from the rest and transports you to the streets of Philly with each bite.
531 Pizza is the real deal! The authentic Philly cheesesteaks and creative pizzas are an absolute game-changer for families in the Omaha metro. ~ Bailey Quarles, Omaha Food Magazine
The steak, a vital component, is 100% Angus, thinly sliced and marinated with a proprietary blend of seasonings. This meticulous preparation ensures that the meat is bursting with flavor. Topped with the traditional Cheez Whiz, provolone, or the innovative Jalapeño White Cheese sauce, the cheesesteak offerings cater to both purists and those looking for a twist.
One standout is the 5 Thirty-One Philly, a creative take on the classic. This sandwich combines shaved Philly steak, hickory-smoked brisket, onions, green peppers, Cheez Whiz, provolone, and Jalapeño White sauce, all topped with pickle chips and a Nebraska Cream Cheese drizzle. It’s a flavor explosion that has quickly become a favorite among regulars.
Perfection: A Slice Above the Rest
Pizza lovers fear not. 531 Pizza & Phillies brings the same level of dedication to their pies. The dough is made in-house daily, ensuring a fresh and flavorful base. Topped with homemade pizza sauce and high-quality mozzarella, the pizzas are a testament to the belief that great food starts with great ingredients.
The menu features both traditional and unique pizzas, each one designed to delight the palate. The Spicy Philly Steak Pizza, with its Jalapeño White cheese base, house-shaved Philly steak, onions, green peppers, jalapeños, and smoked buffalo drizzle, is a crowd favorite. For those who prefer a sweeter touch, the BBQ Brisket Pizza, featuring a BBQ base, hickory-smoked brisket, red onions, mozzarella, and a pineapple bacon drizzle, is a must-try.
Beyond Pizza and Cheesesteaks
While the focus is on pizzas and cheesesteaks, the menu at 5 Thirty-One Pizza & Phillies offers a variety of other tempting options. The appetizers are perfect for sharing, with the Pineapple Bacon wings and Philly Fries (topped with shaved Philly steak, onions, green peppers, Jalapeño White, and Nebraska Cream Cheese drizzle) standing out as crowd-pleasers.
For a healthier option, the salad bar offers a fresh selection of vegetables, all hand-sliced daily. It’s a great way to balance the hearty indulgence of the pizzas and cheesesteaks.
A Commitment to Quality and Freshness
One of the most impressive aspects of 5 Thirty-One Pizza & Phillies is their unwavering commitment to quality and freshness. Every ingredient is carefully selected, and every dish is made to order. There are no fry warmers or pre-made items here. Instead, each meal is prepared fresh, ensuring that the flavors are at their peak when they reach your table.
This dedication extends to their sauces, all made from scratch in-house. The Pineapple Bacon, Nebraska Cream Cheese, and Jalapeño White sauces are not only unique but also elevate the flavor profile of the dishes they accompany. It’s this attention to detail that makes dining at 5 Thirty-One Pizza & Phillies a truly memorable experience.
Creating a Community Hub
But 5 Thirty-One Pizza & Phillies is more than just a place to eat. It’s a community hub where families and friends can gather to enjoy good food and good company. The restaurant’s design reflects this, with a spacious party room available for private events. Whether it’s a birthday, a sports team celebration, or a business meeting, the party room offers a perfect setting with its modern amenities and charming decor.
Mary Krause from Omaha Food Magazine was particularly impressed by how the Hoffman family honored the community and history of Gretna. The historical documents and pictures throughout 531 Pizza, especially in the party room, show a deep respect for the community they live and work.
The sense of respect for the community extends beyond the walls of the restaurant. 531 Pizza & Phillies is proud to support local non-profits, sports teams, and charitable organizations through their fundraising initiatives. By donating a portion of sales receipts to these causes, they are actively contributing to the betterment of the community they serve.
Looking to the Future
As we wrapped up our visit, it was clear that 5 Thirty-One Pizza & Phillies is more than just a locally owned restaurant. It’s a labor of love, a place where the passion for good food and the commitment to community intersect. The owners, Liz and Chris Hoffman, and their team bring a wealth of experience to the table, ensuring that every aspect of the dining experience is thoughtfully considered.
Looking ahead, 5 Thirty-One Pizza & Phillies aims to continue innovating and providing exceptional service to their customers. With plans for future events and a continuous drive to push culinary boundaries, there’s always something exciting on the horizon.
Staying True To Its Roots While Embracing Innovation
5 Thirty-One Pizza & Phillies stands out by staying true to its roots while embracing innovation. It’s a place where traditional flavors meet creative flair, and where quality and authenticity are never compromised. Whether you’re a longtime resident of the Omaha metro area or just passing through, a visit to 5 Thirty-One Pizza & Phillies is a must. It’s more than a meal; it’s an experience that celebrates the best of what this community has to offer.
Address: 16918 Morgan Ave Ste 1, Gretna, NE 68028
Phone: (531) 466-1161
Menu: 5thirty-one.com
IMAGE CREDITS: Craig McPeck/Omaha Food Magazine
