About Via 313
via 313 is Detroit-style pizza brought to the heart of Austin, Texas. Born from a love of thick, airy dough and crispy lacey cheese edges, our story is one of passion, community, and the belief that great pizza changes everything.
The via 313 Pizza Story
Via 313 was founded by brothers Brandon and Zane Hunt, two Detroit natives who missed the square, thick-crusted pizza of their hometown more than anything else when they moved to Austin, Texas.
Unable to find the Detroit-style pizza they grew up with — the kind baked in blue steel pans, with a crispy, lacey cheese edge and sauce on top — they decided to make it themselves. What started as a single food trailer on South Lamar Boulevard quickly became a city-wide obsession.
"We didn't set out to build a restaurant empire. We just wanted to share the pizza we loved growing up on the streets of Detroit — and Austin embraced it with open arms."
The name "313" is Detroit's area code — a direct homage to the city that gave the world this extraordinary style of pizza. Today, via313 has grown into multiple locations across Austin and beyond, but the recipe, the passion, and the soul remain exactly the same.
Our Mission & Philosophy
Everything we do at Via 313 is guided by a few core beliefs that keep us grounded and passionate every single day.
Made with Love
Every pizza we make carries the same love and attention as the first one Brandon and Zane ever baked in their small trailer kitchen in 2011.
Fresh Ingredients
We source the freshest local ingredients available, partnering with Texas farmers and suppliers who share our commitment to quality.
Community First
Via 313 exists because Austin welcomed us. We give back to our community through local events, partnerships, and charitable initiatives.
Uncompromising Quality
We never cut corners. From our proprietary dough recipe to the way we layer sauce on top — every detail is intentional and perfected over years.
Our Core Values
These aren't just words on a wall. These values are the reason our team shows up every day ready to create something extraordinary — one square slice at a time.
Order NowAuthenticity
We stay true to Detroit's pizza heritage. No shortcuts, no substitutes — just the real thing, done right, every time.
Craftsmanship
Pizza-making is an art. We invest in training, technique, and tools to ensure every pie that leaves our kitchen is a masterpiece.
Transparency
We're open about our ingredients, our sourcing, and our practices. You deserve to know what goes into every bite.
Hospitality
Every guest is family. We create spaces and experiences where people feel welcomed, celebrated, and deeply satisfied.
History of via 313 Pizza
From a single trailer in South Austin to a beloved multi-location brand — here's how Via 313 grew into what it is today.
The First Trailer Opens
Brothers Brandon and Zane Hunt park a small food trailer on South Lamar Blvd. They serve Detroit-style pizza — a style unknown to most Austinites — and the lines stretch around the block within weeks.
Second Location & Local Awards
Demand grows so fast that Via 313 opens a second trailer on East 6th Street. Austin Chronicle names Via 313 "Best Pizza in Austin" — the first of many awards to follow.
First Brick-and-Mortar Restaurant
Via 313 graduates from trailers to its first permanent restaurant space in the Bouldin Creek neighborhood. The iconic red booths and open kitchen become an Austin landmark.
Franchise Program Launches
Via 313 launches its franchise program, allowing passionate pizza lovers across the country to bring Detroit-style pizza to their own communities. The first franchise location opens in Houston.
Expanding Through Challenges
Despite the pandemic, Via 313 doubles down on community support — offering free pizzas to healthcare workers and frontline staff, reinforcing its roots as a community-driven brand.
National Recognition & Growth
Via 313 is featured in Eater, Thrillist, and Food & Wine magazine. With 8 active locations and a robust catering division, via313 becomes the most recognized Detroit-style pizza brand in the American South.
Meet the Via 313 Team
Our team is a family of food lovers, craft obsessives, and community builders who pour their hearts into every pizza we make.
Brandon Hunt
Co-Founder & CEODetroit native and lifelong pizza lover. Brandon drives the vision, culture, and growth of Via 313 with relentless passion and a deep respect for craft.
Zane Hunt
Co-Founder & Head of OperationsZane is the operational backbone of Via 313. His eye for detail and commitment to consistency ensures every location delivers the same legendary experience.
Maria Castillo
Head Chef & Culinary DirectorWith over 15 years in professional kitchens, Maria refined Via 313's dough recipe and leads culinary innovation across all locations. Pizza is her canvas.
James Thornton
Community & Brand ManagerJames is the face of Via 313 in the Austin community. He builds relationships, manages partnerships, and ensures Via 313 remains a beloved local institution.