

This month's After the Bell guest is Derek Schultz, an assistant principal at Johnston High School. Now in his first year at Johnston and his 19th year in education, Mr. Schultz is used to keeping things in line at school. But this time, he's here to grade something a little different: our November pizza specials!
Mr. Schultz put all four November specials to the test, with one unexpected combination earning his top marks. Here's how they graded out!

We kicked things off with a pizza inspired by an American classic: the bacon cheeseburger!
“I really like the pickle. The cheese with the ketchup goes really well. I think maybe a little more bacon and you've got a great pizza.”
A familiar flavor combination with a pizza twist earned this one an A!


Next up was the Drunken Chicken, and this one made a strong impression thanks to its vodka sauce.
Between the breaded chicken and a hint of basil, Mr. Schultz found plenty to like in this combination.
“That vodka sauce makes that pizza.The breaded chicken, I like the texture over just a regular grilled chicken. And then there's a nice basil hint to it that's really good.”


This one came with a little surprise! Inspired by Joe Hayhoe, the Blind Pig brings mac and cheese and barbecue chicken together on a pizza. And as Mr. Schultz admitted right away, he wasn't sure what to expect.
“Never thought I'd like mac and cheese on a pizza.”
Turns out, this unexpected combination was a winner. The Blind Pig quickly became his favorite of the lineup, earning a solid A+!


For the final November special, Mr. Schultz tried the Club Medley.
He liked the combination of goat cheese and red onion, noting how well the flavors worked together.
“I think it could have a little more pesto flavor to it. But the goat cheese with the red onion makes that combination flow really well. Again, the crust, you can't go wrong with the crust.”

After tasting all four of November's weekly pizza specials, Mr. Schultz gave his Gold Star to the Blind Pig!
The combination of mac and cheese, barbecue chicken and that signature barbecue sauce won him over, even though he wasn't sure about mac and cheese on pizza at first. Sometimes the unexpected combinations end up being the best ones!
All limited-time pizza specials are available this month at Pepp’s Pizzeria — served as whole pies, personal pies, or by the slice. Visit us at 4640 86th Street in Urbandale, Iowa, or explore our full menu to see why we’re a go-to for some of the best pizza in Des Moines. Order online and use code SCHULTZ10 to get 10% off your order throughout November.
Thank you so much to Mr. Schultz for reviewing our November specials! At Pepp's, we're proud to support local educators across the Des Moines area who show up for their students every single day. Each month, we treat one deserving teacher to a FREE pizza party.
Help us choose the next winner — submit your nomination today!
📍 4640 86th Street, Urbandale, IA (Open Monday-Saturday from 11 am-8:30 pm)
❤️ Serving up local flavor, creative monthly specials, and a side of Iowa Nice.
Pepp's Pizzeria October Specials | Philly Cheesesteak, Hawaiian Sweet Fire, Meatball, El Diablo, Boo Bread
Pepp's Pizzeria September Specials: Brisket Steakhouse, Cheesy Chipotle Chicken, Chicago Grind, Italian Deli, Chicken N’ Waffles
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