A Family Tradition That Lives On
Mark & Monica’s Family Pizza is more than just a restaurant—it’s a part of our family story. It all started with Mark and Monica Brooks, two California natives who grew up together in Los Altos. They got married on September 21, 1986, and just a few months later, they took a big step toward their dream. In February 1987, they moved to Carmichael to open the first Mountain Mike’s Pizza in the Sacramento area.
From Franchise to Family-Owned
Running a restaurant was never easy, but Mark and Monica put in the work. Their business grew, and so did their family. They welcomed two children, Ryan and Lauren, who spent their childhood at the pizza parlor. After five years under the Mountain Mike’s name, Mark and Monica decided to make a bold move—they went independent. They wanted a place where they could serve their own recipes and build something truly special. That’s when Mark & Monica’s Family Pizza was born.
A True Community Staple
Over the years, the restaurant became more than just a place to eat. Mark and Monica made it a cornerstone of the Carmichael community. They sponsored local kids’ sports teams, donated to schools and churches, and became known for their fundraising events. Their commitment to family and community made the restaurant feel like home for so many. We are proud to be a business that supports and employs people in the special needs community.
A Difficult Chapter, A Stronger Family
In 2009, Monica was diagnosed with liver cancer. Mark and Monica scaled back the business to focus on family, but sadly, Monica passed later that year. In 2013, a fire damaged the restaurant, and while no one was hurt, rebuilding was tough. Around the same time, Mark battled prostate cancer. Knowing his time was limited, he stepped back to complete his bucket list. Before his passing in 2015, he saw the restaurant rebuilt with two new party rooms and a fresh new look.
A New Generation Continues the Legacy
Today, Mark & Monica's daughter, Lauren Lanthier, along with her cousin Kelly Kann, carry on the family legacy. Kelly and her husband moved from Indiana with their three children just as Mark and Monica had once moved to start their dream. Now, another generation is being raised at the restaurant along with Lauren's two children.
Join Us at Mark & Monica’s Family Pizza!
This restaurant is more than a business—it’s a piece of our family, and we love sharing it with you. Stop by at 4751 Manzanita Ave, Carmichael, CA, and be a part of our story. Whether you’re a longtime guest or visiting for the first time, we can’t wait to welcome you in.