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Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles brings their favorite food to life.
The first-ever official TMNT-themed pizzeria is set to open in Santa Monica, California on June 20th, giving fans the chance to enjoy pizza surrounded by decor, merchandise, and experiences inspired by Leonardo, Raphael, Donatello, and Michelangelo.
The restaurant, located at 1444 Third Street on the Third Street Promenade, is being touted as the franchise’s first official pizzeria and marks the next chapter in Paramount’s efforts to expand the decades-old brand beyond film, television and toys.
Entrepreneur Andy Nguyen, who helped develop the concept, announced the opening on social media and said the four turtle brothers will appear in person at the grand opening celebration, scheduled for June 20 at 11 a.m.
First TMNT official pizzeria opens in Santa Monica
According to the Santa Monica Daily Press, the restaurant is operating in a limited soft opening phase and plans to suspend operations after June 14th until it reopens for its official opening.
Nguyen is known for creating fan-centric dining experiences tied to popular entertainment series. His previous projects include One Piece Cafe in Little Tokyo in Los Angeles and Sonic the Hedgehog Speed Cafe in Atlanta. He has also worked on concepts related to “Hello Kitty,” “Naruto,” and “Rick and Morty.”
As reported by the Santa Monica Daily Press, Nguyen first teased the Santa Monica project in 2025, describing it as a “cheesy slice of classic New York style” with a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles-esque twist that has been years in the making.
USA TODAY has reached out to Nguyen for additional comment.
What can customers expect?
The family-friendly restaurant features wall-to-wall TMNT-themed decor, including neon lighting, references to the series’ signature mutagenic ooze, and other homages to the half-shelled hero.
The menu focuses on classic pizza, but visitors can also purchase exclusive merchandise such as T-shirts, pins, keychains, and other collectibles. Staff will wear franchise-inspired uniforms, and a small bar will serve alcohol on weekends.
Part of Paramount’s larger TMNT expansion
The Santa Monica restaurant is one of three TMNT-themed pizzerias that Paramount has announced globally, with additional locations planned for Monterrey, Mexico and São Paulo, Brazil.
The restaurants are part of a broader franchise expansion that includes a new preschool-focused YouTube animated series, a worldwide licensing agreement with Mattel starting in 2027, and upcoming films such as Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem 2, scheduled for release on August 13, 2027.
Reporter Anthony Thompson can be reached at ajthompson@usatodayco.com or X @athompsonUSAT.
