Best impulsive decision.
Welcome to Pizza ‘Ono, a testament to new beginnings, the healing power of home, and the universal love for food. The impulsive idea came from Scott, a veteran with a story of resilience, rediscovery, and a passion for bringing people together.
From Battlefields to
New Beginnings
Scott Ostrom felt a call to serve his country from a young age, driven by a desire to make his parents proud and to find camaraderie in the brotherhood of the Marines.
Scott’s journey began in the heat of Iraq, where he served two tours as a Reconnaissance Marine. Scott's experiences were marked by intense missions and the loss of comrades, including a close friend in a tragic attack. Returning home with physical injuries and the invisible wounds of PTSD, Scott embarked on a challenging journey of healing and self-discovery.
The transition wasn’t easy. Like many veterans, Scott faced his battles with personal demons, seeking solace in ways that led him further from peace. But the strongest warriors know when to write a new chapter.
In the process of penning his memoir, Scott found sobriety, rekindled love with his life partner, Emma, and embraced the calling of his Hawaiian roots. Moving to the Big Island, a place that promised healing and a fresh start, he sought a meaningful way to connect with his community.
A Spark at the Market
The idea for Pizza ‘Ono sparked at a farmers market in Denver, months before moving to the island.
Encountering a wood-fired pizza oven on a trailer, Scott wondered if his journey could merge with the art of pizza making. He has always been a passionate cook with friends encouraging him to start a food truck.
Research revealed the oven’s creators were just a stone’s throw away, and the concept of serving pizza on the Big Island started to take shape.
Pizza, after all, is more than just food; it’s a gathering point, a way to bring joy and community together. The Big Island, with its vibrant culture yet lacking in quality pizza options, seemed like the perfect place for such an endeavor.
