From CoVizza to Leona’s: Eau Claire’s Newest Pizza Spot In The Works

There’s a new pizza place set to open in Eau Claire in the future, run by the owners of the now closed CoVizza. Leona’s is going to take shape at the old “My Office” bar on Galloway Street in Eau Claire. 

Popular pizza joint CoVizza, owned by Jakob and Brittany Paulsrud, recently closed its doors at Banbury Place after their deal with The 1106 (formerly Artisan Forge Studios) fell through. They had originally intended to open at The 1106 this spring, but when plans fell through, CoVIzza had to leave Banbury as their lease was up. Since then, there’s been good news!

The Paulsruds have found a space downtown, in the “My Office” bar at 408 Galloway Street. They’ll be renovating to make space for a kitchen, and are currently looking for the right contractor. “We are beyond excited for this new venture for it allows us to get back to our original dream of slanging pizzas out of a stand alone building,” says Jakob Paulsrud, noting that it was important to them to have a space in downtown Eau Claire. 

The Paulsruds posted on social media about finding a new space on Galloway Street, and the community was thrilled to hear the news. “Our emails, DM’s and phones were non-stop for a few days following that,” says Jakob. “We felt the love from this community straight away.” 

They’re excited to plant roots in the Eau Claire community, and are excited to have found a space they don’t intend to leave. “I often joke that I’ll die on the kitchen line and this place will be my memorial,” Jakob says with a laugh.

Leona’s is named after Jakob’s great grandmother. “It’s simply Leona’s,” Jakob says, “A simple menu with an at home feel.” Leona’s doesn’t have an official opening date yet.