Papa Joe's Pizza & Pies, Vermilion

The crust is the first thing that hits the tongue of a pizza eater (unless they're eating upside down). The foundation of all relatives of the pie family, the dough that makes that crust determines the difference between a one-time chew or lifelong romance. There's loving care, and perhaps even magic, in the dough of Papa Joe's Pizza. Always homemade—a rare quality in the modern premade era—that dough possesses a personality, piquant charm, and irrefutably fresh taste that has lured the diners of Vermillion and beyond into a endless courtship since 1972. Ranging in size from personal 7-inch pies to tabletop-toppling 26"x18" party pizzas, Papa Joe's handcrafted concoctions are baked to the perfect balance of crunch and caress, and come loaded with whatever meats and vegetables the heart desires.

That handcrafted, family-made touch extends to the rest of Papa Joe's menu, featuring comforting subs on homemade buns, Mama Joe's fruit and cream pies, and a slew of succulent surprises such as broasted chicken, pierogis, and take-home dishes such as chicken paprikash and beef stew. The homey feel of the food is accentuated by the restaurant's own homey storefront in one of Vermillion's oldest buildings, which holds structural hands with the adjoining breakfast/dessert destination of Granny Joe's Ice Creamatorium.