A popular pizza pop-up is planning to open a brick-and-mortar location in metro Detroit.
Matt Arb’s Amelia Street Pizza Co. — known for its signature “Pecorino Half Moon,” with a sourdough crust dusted in shaved cheese — is aiming for a spring opening in Hazel Park.
Acclaimed chef James Rigato is backing the project, serving as investor and mentor.
“It’s the coolest thing to have someone like James taking an interest in this little thing that started in my kitchen,” Arb said. “He hasn’t tried to change it or tell me what to do. Having him in my corner is just going to make it even more special. Our goal is to have the best pizza you’ve ever had, but for it to still feel like a neighborhood spot.”
The low-frills shop will be located at 951 E. Nine Mile Rd., in a 1,000-square-foot storefront attached to a party store. It’s located less than a mile away from Mabel Gray, the high-end restaurant Rigato has owned and operated for a decade.
“I’ve wanted to open a pizza spot for a long time,” Rigato said. “But this is not a Mabel Gray project. This is Matt’s business and Matt’s pizza. My mentorship is on the business and behind-the-scenes side. It’s about continuing to bring great food concepts to the city where I live and work, and helping a talented, independent guy who makes really great pizza build something from the ground up.”
Arb launched his pop-up out of his home after seven years working as a refinancing banker at Rocket Mortgage. His pizzas took off on social media, catching the attention of Rigato and leading to a residency at Detroit’s Dragonfly in 2025.
The menu is simple, featuring cheese, pepperoni, and a rotating special. Cheese bread, cookies, and soft drinks will round out the offerings.
More information is available on Instagram @ameliastpizzaco.
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