Our Story

It all started back in the early 1950s with Billy Bobe—a world traveler, cook in the merchant marines during World War II, and Army vet from the Korean War. Along his journeys, Billy discovered a love for pizza, and when he came home, he got to work in his own kitchen, experimenting until he perfected the recipe we still use today.

In 1955, he opened the very first Bobe’s Pizza on 6th Street in Vincennes, Indiana—at the time, the only pizza shop within 80 miles. Before long, his younger brother Larry jumped in, managing the pizzeria at just 17 years old. Pizza became his life’s craft, and eventually, he opened his own shop on the corner of 9th and State in Lawrenceville, Illinois.

That’s where the next generation got their start. Larry’s sons, Brad and Brett, grew up in the business before opening their own location in Olney, Illinois, in 2002. Fifteen years later, the brothers brought Bobe’s to Mt. Carmel, and in 2022, Brett’s children proudly opened our store in downtown Albion and most recently in Charleston. Today, we’re six locations strong—Vincennes, Lawrenceville, Olney, Mt. Carmel, Albion, and Charleston—and still growing.

Now, the third generation is carrying the torch. Cody, Joe, and Allie Bobe help manage the stores, alongside other family members like Madison—whose smile is as famous as our pizza—and Hoa, who keeps the ovens hot and the breadsticks coming.

From day one, Bobe’s Pizza has been made from scratch and served with love. It’s more than just a recipe—it’s our family’s tradition, and we can’t wait to share it with you.