James Imo
Chief Executive Officer
Second-generation leader carrying forward his parents' legacy with vision, passion, and an unwavering belief in the power of a perfect pizza.
60+
Years of
Excellence
Excellence
Our Humble Beginnings
A St. Louis Legend
Explore Our Menu
A St. Louis Legend
Born From Scratch
In 1964, Ed and Margie Imo opened their first pizzeria in St. Louis with a simple dream: create the most delicious, satisfying pizza in the region using only the finest local ingredients.
What started as a single neighborhood pizzeria quickly became a beloved institution. Ed's commitment to using real Provel cheese — a St. Louis original — and his iconic square-cut "party style" slices set Imo's apart from every competitor. The thin, cracker-crisp crust became the hallmark of an entirely unique regional pizza tradition.
Today, Imo's Pizza operates dozens of locations across the greater St. Louis area, continuing the Imo family's legacy with the same dedication to freshness, community, and irresistibly good pizza that made the very first slice legendary.
1964
Year Founded
90+
Locations
1M+
Pizzas Served
5K+
Team Members
Why We Exist
Our Mission & Purpose
At Imo's Pizza, we believe food is more than fuel — it's connection. Our mission is to bring families and communities together over the shared joy of an exceptional pizza experience, crafted with integrity and served with heart.
Made with Love
Every pizza is crafted with genuine passion, using hand-selected ingredients and recipes perfected over generations.
Fresh Ingredients
We source the freshest local produce and premium meats daily, because quality in means quality out — every single time.
Community First
We are St. Louis. We invest in local partnerships, schools, and events because this community is the heart of our business.
Uncompromised Quality
From our signature Provel cheese to our hand-tossed dough, every element meets our strict standards before it reaches your table.
What We Stand For
Our Core Values
These principles guide every decision we make, from sourcing ingredients to serving customers and supporting our team.
Integrity
We do what we say, and we say what we mean. Honest ingredients, transparent pricing, and genuine service — no shortcuts, ever.
Excellence
We set the bar high and never stop reaching. Continuous improvement in our recipes, service, and customer experience drives us forward daily.
Community
St. Louis raised us, and we give back generously. Local partnerships, school fundraisers, and neighborhood events keep us rooted and grateful.
Innovation
While we cherish tradition, we embrace new ideas — seasonal specials, exciting collaborations, and better ways to serve you delight us equally.
Hospitality
Every customer deserves to feel welcomed, valued, and satisfied. Warm, attentive service is not optional — it's the Imo's way.
Sustainability
We are committed to responsible sourcing, minimizing waste, and making choices today that protect the St. Louis we love for tomorrow.
How We Got Here
Our Journey Through
Our Journey Through
the Decades
Six decades of growth, community, and unwavering commitment to the perfect slice of St. Louis–style pizza.
1964
The First Slice
Ed and Margie Imo open the very first Imo's Pizza on Thurman Avenue in St. Louis, Missouri. Their square-cut pizza with Provel cheese is an immediate neighborhood sensation.
1972
Second Location Opens
Overwhelming demand drives the Imo family to open a second location in South St. Louis. The signature thin, cracker-crisp crust becomes the talk of the city.
1981
Franchise Model Launched
Imo's introduces its franchise program, enabling passionate entrepreneurs across Missouri and Illinois to bring the beloved St. Louis–style pizza to their own communities.
1993
Regional Icon Status
With over 30 locations, Imo's Pizza is officially recognized as a St. Louis cultural institution. The "Square Beyond Compare" tagline becomes synonymous with the city itself.
2005
Online Ordering Launch
Imo's embraces technology with the launch of online ordering, making it easier than ever for customers to enjoy their favorite pizza from the comfort of home.
2015
50 Years of Perfection
Imo's celebrates its golden anniversary with citywide events, limited-edition specials, and heartfelt tributes from the St. Louis community that helped build the brand.
2024
60 Years & Growing
Today, Imo's Pizza stands proud with over 90 locations, a dedicated team of 5,000+ and an undying mission: deliver the most authentic, delicious St. Louis–style pizza in the world.
The People Behind the Pizza
Meet Our Leadership Team
Our passionate team of culinary experts, operators, and innovators work tirelessly every day to uphold the Imo's legacy and push it boldly forward.
Maria Chen
Head Chef & Culinary Director
With 20 years of artisan pizza experience, Maria oversees every recipe, ingredient selection, and kitchen standard across all Imo's locations.
David Wallace
Director of Operations
David ensures that every Imo's location runs with precision and consistency, delivering the same exceptional experience customers expect, every visit.
Sarah Mitchell
Community Relations Manager
Sarah is the bridge between Imo's and the St. Louis community, leading charitable initiatives, school partnerships, and neighborhood events year-round.
Passionate about great food and great service? We'd love to have you on our team.
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