This article was inspired by content originally published on LAist by Robert Garrova,
A Slice of Baseball Heaven in Chinatown
In the heart of Los Angeles’ Chinatown, a unique culinary destination has emerged that perfectly captures the city’s passion for both pizza and baseball. LaSorted’s, a Dodgers-themed pizza palace, has become the go-to spot for Angelenos who bleed blue, especially as the defending champion Dodgers head into their second World Series in just two years.
Owner Tommy Brockert, a third-generation Dodgers fan, has created more than just a restaurant – he’s built a shrine to the Boys in Blue that serves as a gathering place for fans and food enthusiasts alike. “I was born for this. I take it to another level.. to make it the ultimate experience,” Brockert told LAist. “And if there’s a place that’s approachable, that’s what I want this to be.”
From Porch Pizza to Culinary Destination
LaSorted’s journey began humbly during the pandemic when Brockert started making pizza on his porch for friends and neighbors. This grassroots approach to pizza-making quickly gained popularity, leading to the opening of a Silver Lake pizza counter in 2021. The concept proved so successful that Brockert expanded to the Chinatown location last year, perfectly timed for the Dodgers’ 2024 World Series win.
The growth of LaSorted’s exemplifies a broader trend in the pizza industry – the rise of specialty pizzerias that combine culinary excellence with unique themes and experiences. For aspiring pizza entrepreneurs, Brockert’s journey offers valuable insights into how passion and quality can transform a home-based operation into a thriving business.
A Museum of Dodgers Memorabilia
What truly sets LaSorted’s apart is its extensive collection of Dodgers memorabilia that transforms the space into a baseball lover’s paradise. The restaurant features everything from a Dodgers Cabbage Patch doll to signed photos of beloved manager Tommy Lasorda, who passed away in 2021.
The centerpiece is undoubtedly the “Tommy Lasorda wall,” which includes a baseball that Brockert says was in the late manager’s office and a rare sketch of Lasorda with legendary comedian Don Rickles. This attention to detail creates an immersive experience that goes beyond typical sports-themed restaurants.
For pizza shop owners looking to create memorable dining experiences, LaSorted’s demonstrates how thoughtful theming and authentic storytelling can elevate a restaurant from merely serving food to becoming a destination.
The Perfect Game Day Experience
As the Dodgers face off against the Toronto Blue Jays in the World Series, LaSorted’s has prepared to welcome fans with additional seating and an enhanced viewing experience. Brockert understands that watching sports is about more than just the game – it’s about community, shared passion, and of course, great food.
“Dodger fans have been amazing. You know, we have… regulars who come before or after the game and people who come to just watch the game with their family,” Brockert said. This community-building aspect is crucial for pizza establishments looking to create loyal customer bases.
For pizza shop owners, the lesson here is clear: creating spaces where customers can gather for shared experiences can significantly boost business, especially during major sporting events. Investing in quality viewing equipment, comfortable seating, and a welcoming atmosphere can transform a pizzeria into the neighborhood’s preferred gathering spot.
The Pizza That Hits a Home Run
While the Dodgers theme draws customers in, it’s the quality of the food that keeps them coming back. LaSorted’s serves up pizza, hot dogs, and more, with a focus on quality ingredients and authentic flavors. The restaurant’s success highlights the importance of combining unique concepts with exceptional culinary execution.
For home pizza makers looking to replicate LaSorted’s quality, investing in the right equipment is essential. A high-quality pizza oven can make the difference between a good pizza and a great one. Additionally, using premium ingredients from trusted suppliers ensures that every slice delivers the flavor and texture that customers expect from a top-tier pizzeria.
The Personal Connection to Baseball Legends
What makes LaSorted’s particularly special is the genuine connection between its owner and the Dodgers legacy. Brockert had a chance meeting with Laura Lasorda, Tommy Lasorda’s daughter, at Dodger Stadium earlier this year. “From what I gathered they were very happy with what [the restaurant] means,” he said, adding that he feels a personal connection to Lasorda’s big heart and love for L.A.
This authenticity resonates with customers and creates a deeper emotional connection to the brand. For pizza entrepreneurs, the lesson is that genuine passion and personal stories can be powerful differentiators in a competitive market.
Creating a Welcoming Atmosphere
Despite the impressive collection of memorabilia, Brockert emphasizes that LaSorted’s is designed to be approachable and welcoming to all. “I really put my heart and soul into creating a place that has felt like it’s been here forever and that everyone is welcome,” he said.
This focus on inclusivity and comfort is crucial for any successful restaurant. For pizza shop owners, creating a space where diverse groups of customers feel welcome can significantly expand your customer base and encourage repeat visits.
The Future of Themed Pizza Establishments
LaSorted’s represents a growing trend in the pizza industry – the fusion of culinary excellence with immersive themed experiences. As consumers increasingly seek out unique dining experiences, themed pizzerias that offer more than just food are likely to continue gaining popularity.
For pizza entrepreneurs, this trend presents both opportunities and challenges. While themed concepts can attract attention and create buzz, they must be backed by quality food and excellent service to achieve long-term success.
FAQ
Q: What makes LaSorted’s different from other sports-themed restaurants?
A: LaSorted’s combines an authentic Dodgers theme with high-quality pizza and a genuine passion for both baseball and food. The extensive collection of memorabilia, including items that belonged to Tommy Lasorda, creates an immersive experience that goes beyond typical sports bars.
Q: How did LaSorted’s get started?
A: Owner Tommy Brockert began making pizza on his porch during the pandemic for friends and neighbors. The popularity of his pizzas led to a Silver Lake location in 2021, followed by the Chinatown expansion in 2024.
Q: What types of food does LaSorted’s serve?
A: While pizza is the star of the menu, LaSorted’s also serves hot dogs and other ballpark-style favorites. The focus is on quality ingredients and authentic flavors that complement the Dodgers theme.
Q: Can I watch Dodgers games at LaSorted’s?
A: Yes! LaSorted’s has added additional tables and viewing space specifically for World Series watchers. The restaurant has become a popular gathering spot for fans before, during, and after games.
Q: What can other pizza entrepreneurs learn from LaSorted’s success?
A: LaSorted’s demonstrates the power of combining authentic passion with quality food and a unique theme. Creating a welcoming atmosphere, building community, and telling genuine stories can help differentiate a pizzeria in a competitive market.
Conclusion
LaSorted’s represents the perfect fusion of Los Angeles’ love for the Dodgers and its passion for great pizza. By creating an authentic, welcoming space that celebrates both baseball and culinary excellence, Tommy Brockert has built more than just a restaurant – he’s created a community hub where fans can gather, share their passion, and enjoy exceptional food.
For pizza entrepreneurs, LaSorted’s offers valuable lessons in the power of authentic theming, quality execution, and community building. As the pizza industry continues to evolve, establishments that can create unique, memorable experiences while delivering exceptional food will be best positioned for success.
Whether you’re a Dodgers fan, a pizza enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates unique dining experiences, LaSorted’s offers a taste of what makes Los Angeles special – a city where passion, creativity, and culinary excellence come together in perfect harmony.
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