Mikey's Late Night Slice to open two eateries in former Weenie Wonder locations

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- Mikey's Late Night Slice, the Columbus pizza empire known for its New York-style pies, is launching two new central Ohio eateries in former Weenie Wonder locations that closed earlier this year.

The pizza joint is taking over the Weenie locations that once served hot dogs and milkshakes next to Pins Mechanical Co. at Easton Town Center and in Dublin's Bridge Park. Mikey's is partnering with Rise Brands, the parent company of Pins, to launch the eateries, presenting the "opportunity to unite two staples for a perfect night out -- pizza and games."

"We're excited to team up with Rise Brands to introduce Mikey's to even more pizza lovers in the Columbus region," said Mikey Sorboro, founder of Mikey's, in a release. "Our partnership with Rise aligns with our mission to create memorable experiences for our guests. We can't wait to share our signature pizza with the Dublin and Easton communities."

Mikey's is swooping in after Weenie abruptly closed both locations in February, which were also operated by Rise Brands. Weenie had opened at Bridge Park in 2022 followed by the Easton location in 2023. The company said the decision to close was part of a “strategic realignment” to focus its resources on the rapid growth of other brands in its portfolio. 

"We hold ourselves and our brands to a very high standard to deliver exceptional guest experiences. Even though we strongly believe in the Weenie Wonder brand, unfortunately, the economic model was not sustainable and the brand failed to meet our standards," said Troy Allen, CEO of Rise Brands, at the time.

The company said, with Pins' reputation as a popular social gathering place offering activities like duckpin bowling, the addition of Mikey's offerings will further enhances the overall guest experience.

"Incorporating Mikey's into Pins is a no-brainer," said Allen in a release. "From the eclectic wall art to the classic music videos blasting on the screens, Mikey's perfectly complements Pins' lively atmosphere. We're thrilled to start this journey and expand Mikey's presence alongside Pins."

While an opening date has yet to be announced, both Mikey's will be open from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. daily with potential for extended hours on weekends or during special events.

The expansion comes as Mikey's is also opening another location at University Square along High Street at 1839 Pearl Street this summer. The shop near Ohio State will be the flagship location for a new approach, targeting sites near college campuses in Ohio and elsewhere.

Mikey's restaurants dot neighborhoods across Columbus, including with a pizza-only food truck at Land Grant Brewing and a limited menu inside Hollywood Casino Columbus. The pizza shop also has one location in Cincinnati.