EL DORADO HILLS — If you’ve ever spent time in nearby Sutter Creek, there’s a good chance you’ve tasted Gold Dust Pizza — or at least heard someone rave about it. Now, the family-owned pizzeria known for its handcrafted pies and Gold Rush-inspired charm is bringing that same experience to El Dorado Hills, marking its seventh location and another milestone in its steady growth.
The new location at 2201 Francisco Drive, Suite 150 will introduce Gold Dust Pizza to a growing foothill community while continuing the same family-driven approach that has fueled the brand for more than four decades. Expected to open as soon as late April or early May, the site will take over the former Pizza Twist space.
The El Dorado Hills location will be a Gold Dust Pizza Express concept, tailored for modern dining with a focus on takeout and delivery while still offering limited seating for guests — a format the company has introduced to meet growing demand for faster, more convenient service. This marks the company’s first move into the Highway 50 corridor, an area that continues to see rapid residential and commercial growth.
“This will be our seventh Gold Dust Pizza location. We are over the moon to be coming to El Dorado Hills,” Katie Willey told Folsom Times. “Whether you’re a long-time fan who used to drive out to our other spots or a newcomer wondering what all the fuss is about, we cannot wait to welcome you through our doors.”
Gold Dust Pizza’s story begins in 1984 in Ripon, where Bob Willey opened a small neighborhood pizza parlor originally known as Pizza Plus. Built on a foundation of fresh ingredients, consistency and strong ties to the community, the business quickly became a staple. In 1999, Willey married Monica “Moe” Willey, and together they grew both their family and the business, eventually bringing their children — Katie, Jeremiah and Hannah — into the operation. Today, it remains a true family-run company with multiple generations actively involved in its continued growth.
The brand took on the Gold Dust Pizza name in 2011 with the opening of its Sutter Creek location, inspired by California’s Gold Rush heritage and the historic charm of the region. From there, expansion followed with locations in Oakdale, Copperopolis, Modesto and Manteca, each carrying the same emphasis on quality food and a welcoming, community-centered atmosphere.
That reputation has been built in large part on a menu that goes well beyond standard pizza offerings. Gold Dust Pizza’s specialty pies are known for generous portions, bold combinations and a balance of classic and creative flavors. Popular combinations include loaded meat pizzas stacked with pepperoni, sausage, salami and linguica, alongside barbecue chicken pies featuring tangy sauce, red onions and cilantro.
Other favorites lean into rich, savory profiles with creamy garlic bases topped with grilled chicken, bacon and fresh vegetables, while pesto-based creations highlight ingredients like artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes and specialty cheese blends. From fully loaded combination pies to lighter, veggie-forward options and specialty builds with bold flavor profiles, the menu is designed to appeal to both traditional pizza fans and those looking for something a little different.
Beyond pizza, the menu includes calzones packed with meats, cheeses and vegetables, hot sandwiches served on fresh bread, and appetizers such as wings, cheesy bread and other shareable favorites that round out the experience for families and groups. That depth of menu has helped Gold Dust Pizza stand out as more than just a pizza stop, but a go-to gathering place.
As the El Dorado Hills opening approaches, Gold Dust Pizza is currently hiring for multiple positions at the new location as it builds its local team ahead of opening. Those interested in joining the company can reach out directly via email atrelichiring@gmail.comfor more information on available opportunities.
The El Dorado Hills location will carry the full menu into its Express format, designed to meet growing demand for convenient takeout and delivery while still maintaining the same handcrafted quality customers have come to expect.
Like its other locations, Gold Dust Pizza is expected to become part of the fabric of the community it serves. The company has long supported local schools, youth sports teams and events, often becoming a regular gathering place for families, teams and local groups in each community it serves while also providing employment opportunities that serve as a starting point for many young workers gaining experience in the workforce.
Looking ahead, the El Dorado Hills opening may be just one step in the company’s continued growth. They are eyeing other possibly nearby communities such as Folsom and Granite Bay as a potential future expansion.
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