Nestled at 1400 Lakeside Drive in the heart of Lynchburg, Jo Jo Pizza is far more than just a pizzeria—it's a local treasure that brings Sicilian heritage, family tradition, and community spirit to every table. Since opening its doors in 2008, Jo Jo Pizza has become a beloved gathering place for locals who crave authentic Italian flavors served in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. What sets Jo Jo Pizza apart is its story—a tale of culinary passion passed down through generations and anchored in love for both food and people.

Founded by the dynamic father-son team of Filippo and Vito Carcioppolo, Jo Jo Pizza is a true family endeavor. Filippo, who immigrated from Sicily, brought with him a deep-rooted knowledge of traditional Italian cooking. Before Jo Jo Pizza, he had already made a name for himself at Monte Carlo Restaurant on Old Forest Road. Vito, a business-savvy Lynchburg College graduate, combined his entrepreneurial skills with his father's culinary expertise to bring this vision to life. The result is a pizzeria that delivers more than delicious meals—it delivers warmth, culture, and community connection.

Walking into Jo Jo Pizza feels like stepping into a familiar place where everyone knows your name. The interior is designed to be both fun and inviting, with multiple TVs, a pool table, and foosball tables that make it ideal for families, students, and sports fans alike. This welcoming environment is intentional; the Carcioppolos wanted to create a space where people of all ages could relax, share a meal, and enjoy each other’s company. It’s no wonder the restaurant has enjoyed such lasting popularity over the years.

Jo Jo Pizza’s menu is a testament to its Sicilian roots, offering a wide range of dishes that are crafted with care and steeped in tradition. Every item is made from scratch using time-honored family recipes, a detail that’s immediately evident in the taste and quality of the food. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic New York-style pizza or something more adventurous like a specialty calzone or Schiacciata sandwich, Jo Jo Pizza has something to satisfy every craving.

One of the standout menu items is “The Works” pizza—a generous creation loaded with all the favorite toppings. It’s a fan-favorite for those who love a fully loaded pie. Equally famous is the “Mob Boss” cheese pizza, known not only for its bold flavor but also for its size—it’s truly a pizza built for sharing. The restaurant’s extensive offerings include strombolis, hoagies, pasta dishes like baked ziti and spaghetti with meatballs, and even burgers and wings for those craving a more American-style meal.

Perhaps the most unique item is the “Schiacciata,” a flatbread-style sandwich filled with fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Customers also rave about the house-made Filippo’s Country Italian Salad Dressing, crafted from a century-old family recipe straight from Sicily. This dressing has developed such a loyal following that it’s now bottled and available for sale—just one more way Jo Jo Pizza lets customers take a piece of their kitchen home.

Reviews consistently highlight the generous portions and quality ingredients. One guest summed it up perfectly: “The pizza was good—nice crust, not too greasy, great chew on the crust, nice toppings—all in all a very decent pie.” Whether you’re dining in, grabbing takeout, or ordering delivery, Jo Jo Pizza makes sure every meal feels like a special occasion.

Jo Jo Pizza is more than just a place to eat—it’s a community hub that brings people together. Its location near the University of Lynchburg makes it a favorite among college students looking for a break from campus dining. At the same time, its family-friendly vibe and casual atmosphere make it a go-to spot for local families, birthday celebrations, and casual nights out. The Carcioppolos have created something rare: a restaurant that appeals to every generation.

What truly distinguishes Jo Jo Pizza is its heart. The team doesn’t just serve food—they serve smiles, comfort, and connection. The restaurant is often buzzing with laughter, conversation, and the sound of clinking glasses and sizzling pizzas. It’s the kind of place where you’re just as likely to run into a neighbor as you are to strike up a conversation with someone new. That spirit of connection is deeply woven into the business’s identity.

The owners’ commitment to the Lynchburg community is evident in their daily interactions with customers, their consistent support for local events, and their determination to create a welcoming space for everyone. By offering affordable meals, generous portions, and great service, they’ve made Jo Jo Pizza an essential part of the city’s social fabric.

The glowing reviews across Google, Yelp, and Jo Jo Pizza’s website speak volumes about the restaurant’s reputation in Lynchburg. With a 4.3-star rating and hundreds of enthusiastic customer testimonials, Jo Jo Pizza has earned a special place in the hearts of its patrons. What shines through in all the feedback is a consistent appreciation for the food, the people, and the overall experience.

One regular diner raved, “Service was awesome and I ordered The Works pizza and it's the best pizza I've ever had. 5 stars to you JoJo Pizza!!!!” It’s not just the pizza that gets praise, either. A particularly memorable review shared the story of a guest who accidentally ordered the largest pizza on the menu: “She laughed—it was so huge she had to lay the seat in the minivan down to get it home. It is called the Giant. Worth every penny.” These are the kinds of moments that turn customers into lifelong fans.

Another reviewer painted a vivid picture of the setting, writing, “Not crowded, not dark, and not noisy, with a couple of pool and foosball tables in the back... Nice outdoor seating area for when the weather gets nice.” These small details—thoughtful service, a fun ambiance, and a relaxing space—are what make Jo Jo Pizza feel less like a restaurant and more like a second home.

Even more impressively, many reviews mention the consistency of the experience. Guests return time and time again because they know they’ll get a warm welcome, a satisfying meal, and a genuine sense of hospitality. That kind of loyalty doesn’t happen by accident—it’s the result of years of hard work, dedication, and a true passion for serving the community.

When you think about what makes a restaurant great, it’s not just the food—it’s the experience, the atmosphere, the story, and the people behind it. Jo Jo Pizza in Lynchburg offers all of that and more. With roots deeply grounded in Sicilian tradition, a passion for quality, and an unwavering commitment to community, this local favorite stands out as a true gem.

Whether you’re a college student looking for a go-to pizza place, a family in search of a fun night out, or a foodie on the hunt for authentic Italian flavors, Jo Jo Pizza delivers every time. The Carcioppolos have built something special—a place where you can come hungry and leave happy, knowing you’ve experienced the best of Lynchburg’s hospitality.

So next time you’re in the area, treat yourself to a slice of what Jo Jo Pizza has to offer. You’ll leave with a full stomach, a happy heart, and maybe even a bottle of that legendary Italian dressing. For more information, to view the menu, or to place an order, visit their website at www.jojopizzalynchburg.com