Multi-generation Gunnison native Blake Eastman is the newest restaurateur in town, having taken over ownership of what was previously known as Mikey’s Pizza. He’s renamed the establishment Gunnison Pizza.
“I am fortunate enough to take over an already prosperous business,” Eastman explained. “We are going to have the same consistency and quality that people expect, with a few intricate dishes added.”
Eastman was an employee at Mikey’s for almost three years, including one year as the manager. The business was for sale for about six months before he decided to take the plunge into ownership.
Eastman found himself giving tours to prospective purchasers, while in the back of his mind considered taking it over himself.
“It felt strange giving tours to people in what felt like my kitchen,” he explained.
Eastman has worked in the food industry since the age of 16, from fine dining to fast food to Mediterranean cuisine. Coming from a family full of Gunnison business owners, having his own restaurant was a natural evolution of Eastman’s vision.
On Monday Eastman hung up his freshly finished Gunnison Pizza sign and a new menu that is presented above the walk-up counter. The additions to his menu were inspired by all of his previous restaurant experience — “a clash of culinary fusions,” as he likes to call it.
Eastman believes he has potential to grow the business and is excited for existing and new customers to come in, see what's new, and expand his clientele.
Gunnison Pizza will serve lunch and dinner seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.. They are located at 303 E. Tomichi, Suite C, and can be reached at 970.641.1110.
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