Papa Leo's Pizza was destined to be. At least that's how Parker Greenman's family likes to tell it. It all began with plans made from crayons. Even as a child, Greenman dreamed of owning a pizza shop and has the crayon-inspired drawings to prove it. 

Today, Greenman is THE proud Papa, and his family members are the backbone of each Papa Leo's Pizza location. Kandy, his wife; son, Alex; nephew, Nick; and brothers'-in-law, Matt and Duncan, all help to manage the shops; open since 1995 in Wheatfield and 2004 in Lockport, which is approaching it's 12-year anniversary this Summer. 

At Papa Leo's they begin each day by preparing dough and sauce from scratch. Their chicken wings, delivered fresh daily are never frozen. And, they source the freshest produce, and fresh-baked Costanza sub rolls each day. Their dedication to the best ingredients shows. Over the years Papa Leo's has won many awards and commendations. More than a dozen awards for menu items like the Philly Cheese Steak pizza, Buffalo Chicken Finger pizza, and of course their Chicken Wings. It's important to keep the menu as fresh as the ingredients, and Leo's recently added Cup & Char pepperoni, as well as a new sweet pizza sauce—to rave reviews. 

Papa Leo's knows people have busy lives and often have little time to plan meals. To make it easier for customers, Papa Leo's offers a free VIP Program. Simply text PAPAVIP to 51660 and customers will receive up to 2 valuable deals weekly. Customers can also download the Papa Leo's smartphone app to view the full menu, see special deals, collect loyalty points toward free food, or contact Papa Leo's with questions, comments, or suggestions. Plus, users can get directions from their current location. Convenience is at the heart of the app, and Papa Leo's is working towards offering online ordering via smartphone in the future. 

Greenman and family are not only dedicated to their customers, but also dedicated to the communities they serve. Together with Lockport Main Street Inc., Papa Leo's works with Program Manager, Heather Peck, to provide hundreds of pizzas to benefit local children during the holidays. "I hope to give something back to our community every day, even if it's a local donation or a surprise free lunch for a loyal customer." said Greenman. "I believe our commitment to kindness and benevolence is one of the things that sets us apart from our competition."

It's because of Greenman's focus on employee and customer satisfaction that Leo's is, both a wonderful place to work and to eat. "I feel accomplished when both my employees and the customers are smiling and satisfied." 

Greenman emphasized that his family is always a key ingredient in the success of Papa Leo's. He looks forward to seeing his grandson, Chase, learn how to make pizza. But for now, at two-years old, Chase is practicing with crayons, just like his grandfather did.