Pizza by the Guy is now delivering beer. Too good to be true? Owner and operator Adam Hansen would have said so just a few months ago, but thanks to the input of his many loyal customers and some intensive research, it is now a reality.
“Since opening, my little precinct has been dry,” Hansen said. “A lot of my customers would always say, ‘pizza and beer, that goes together,’ and now we can grant them that request.”
The family-owned establishment has been a staple in the Owensboro community for over 20 years. Hansen relocated from Louisville to Owensboro nearly 28 years ago, starting his pizza career with CiCi’s Pizza before opening Pizza by the Guy with the support of his in-laws.
In those 20 years, several things have changed. The phone book is no longer relevant and crustless pizza is actually a thing, but two things remain constant, quality food and efficient delivery. Hansen attributes his success to their loyal customers and his dedicated employees, some of which have been with him for over 15 years.
“If you don’t have a quality product and good employees producing it, you’re not going to make it,” he said. “I remember kids coming in to pick up orders for their parents, and now, they’re picking it up for their kids.”
Hansen is looking forward to bringing that same level of dedication to his new delivery adventures. They launched the beer delivery campaign on Oct. 14 and the concept has slowly gained traction since its inception.
“It’s been good so far, but it definitely hasn’t reached its true potential,” he said. “It’s a change in culture and many people are still processing it all. As the word continues to get out, I expect deliveries to increase even more.”
Because of his reservations, Hansen went above and beyond from a clerical standpoint to ensure he was in the right. After clarifying with the Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC), the state of Kentucky, and local government, he decided it was time to push forward. To deliver beer, one must obtain a packaging license and ensure that they follow several guidelines put in place by state and local governments.
The process is simple. Customers place their orders online or via the phone, provide proof that they are 21, and pre-pay for their items via credit card. Upon receiving their order, the customer must once again provide proof that they are of legal drinking age before any beer can change hands.
“If it wasn’t for my faithful customers and the city of Owensboro, none of what we do would be possible,” Hansen said. “As with anything – if you treat people right, they will take care of you.”
