Downtown Madison’s iconic Ian’s Pizza, famous for the Mac and Cheese Pizza, celebrated its 15th Anniversary on Oct. 31.

Originally founded by Ian Gurfield at the Frances Street location, Ian’s now has a total of six locations, including stores in Milwaukee, Denver, and Seattle.

To celebrate, Ian’s threw a party to thank customers for their loyalty and support over the past 15 years. The celebration included free slices of Halloween-themed birthday cake from Lane’s Bakery, a pizza pinata stuffed with free slice coupons and candy, an Ian’s Pizza Plinko, a bean bag toss for free slices and shot glasses, and a weekend-long costume contest.

The night ended with Ian’s giving away 1,200 slices of Mac and Cheese pizza at the Frances Street location. There was a line out the door for the entire length of the two-hour give away.

Over the past 15 years, the number of customers and locations has grown, along with brand recognition, infrastructure, and kitchen technology, but the heart of Ian’s has remained the same – “passion for our customers and passion for our community,” says Marketing Director Zachary Chapman. “Our goal at Ian’s is to write a great final chapter with every customer that comes through the door . . . you can see that in our reviews.”

Ian’s Pizza takes great pride in receiving a perfect score in this year’s annual “Just Dining Guide” produced by the Workers’ Rights Center. Exemplifying Ian’s commitment to its employees, the Madison stores now have a $10 an hour hiring wage and provide free health care to full-time employees.

Furthermore, all Ian’s locations were founded by former Madison employees who are committed to spreading the company’s values to new locales.

Chapman says the company fosters entrepreneurship and inspiration among employees and hopes to continue this model for growth both inside and outside current markets. “We’ve set our own path, our own values. We hold very high standards,” he says.

In a market crowded with pizza options, Chapman says consumers should choose Ian’s because “we have a slice to fit any palette.”

Ian’s has vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, in addition to their self-described “crazy concoctions,” such as this month’s Thanksgiving slice or brisket and poutine slice. Chapman also notes that Ian’s provides an affordable lunch option, as well as fresh pizza made from many local ingredients.

“You’ll have a very, very enjoyable dining experience,” says Chapman.

“The 15-year anniversary was great for us, but we wouldn’t be where we’re at without these customers we’ve had for the past 15 years, so this party was a great thank you,” says Chapman. “Here’s to another 15 years!”