For this installment of the Courseworkers creator spotlight series we have our family and friends of Novel Pizza Cafe.
Nestled in the Pilsen neighborhood of Chicago, Novel Pizza is more than just another pizzeria—it's a story of culture, ambition, and community. Founded by Ryan Catolico, Enrique Huizar (featured in this video) and Francis Almeda. Novel Pizza brings together Filipino and Mexican flavors in a fresh and exciting way, offering a unique spin on the classic Chicago tavern-style pizza.
For Enrique, pizza has always been a part of his life. Inspired by his father, who introduced him to the business of pizza after arriving to Chicago, he saw an opportunity to turn his father’s line of work into something extraordinary. Despite his father having doubts about opening a shop, fate had other plans for Enrique. Through Ryan’s wife, Evelyn, the two entrepreneurs connected, and what started as pop-ups with different styles of pizza—Alico and Gremski Tavern—soon merged into one vision: Novel Pizza. The name itself speaks to their mission—offering something fresh, new, and unexpected.
But Novel Pizza isn’t just about delicious pies. It’s a creative platform that extends beyond the kitchen. Ryan, Enrique and Francis see their business as a canvas for collaboration, whether through brand partnerships, custom merchandise, or even sports team endorsements. Their passion extends into their craft, ensuring that every ingredient is top-tier and every bite represents their commitment to quality.
More importantly, Novel Pizza is a statement. As entrepreneurs of color, the three founders aim to break barriers, proving that they don’t just belong in the kitchen—they can own it. Their journey is a testament to hard work, resilience, and the belief that with dedication, anything is possible.
Their ambitions don’t stop at Chicago’s borders. Novel Pizza has global aspirations, hoping to bring their unique flavors to new cities and countries. “We want everybody to taste it,” says Enrique, and Ryan echoes the sentiment—so don’t be surprised if Novel Pizza pops up in a neighborhood or country near you.
For those who love great pizza and inspiring stories, Novel Pizza is a must-visit. It’s more than a meal—it’s a movement.
Videography by Carlo Liou of Rise Above & Prosper
Creative direction by Justin Rodriguez
