By Emily Acorn
The Guardian
Phil Homburg and Sean Bruinooge have opened a new eatery with one goal in mind.
Their mission was to bring their beloved New York-style pizza to Charlottetown.
“We thought we could up the pizza game in Charlottetown,” said Homburg in an interview at the new pizza joint last Tuesday.
Homburg says Satellite Pizza is the only place in Charlottetown making authentic New York-style slices and pies.
“We make all our dough and sauce in house and stretch our pizzas to order.”
They do everything by hand, said Homburg. They also use local ingredients from KJL meats and Harvest Wholesale.
“Most of the ingredients are sourced locally, but we are always looking forward to supporting new Island producers.”
Satellite Pizza opened last Monday in the food court at the Shops of Confederation Court Mall and what used to be an empty counter is now full of colour.
There are neon signs, 1980s jams playing and a massive Batman pinball machine at the site.
With all of the seating in the food court, the business partners knew the mall was a good choice, said Homburg.
“It’s a great location for business, there’s tons of space for lunch and dinner, so it made sense for us to give it a shot.”
Jay Noble, who is marketing co-ordinator for Dyne Holdings, which owns the mall, says all of the mall’s food spaces are now leased.
On Friday, Richard and Mary Yang opened Speedy Combo next to Satellite Pizza. The new restaurant offers a variety of menu items, such as Won Ton Soup, traditional Chinese hamburgers, hot dogs, wraps, subs and salads. The Yangs are originally from Shanghai, China.
Noble was mum about what more is coming to the second floor.
“I’m sorry I can’t say more.”
He did say there is a sense of more people and businesses moving to the city’s downtown.
“We are seeing an increased demand for a quick lunch.”
As for Satellite Pizza, Homburg and Bruinooge are planning a grand opening March 17 to thank everyone for the support during their opening week.
“We’re throwing the biggest pizza party Charlottetown has ever seen.”
Twitter.com/PEI Guardian
- - With files from Terry McEachern
