Mad About M.A.D. Pizza

March 2025

Article & Photos by Jamie Blotske

Pizza has long been a staple in American cuisine. There is just something about that cheesy, gooey goodness that, when mixed with a savory marinara or creamy garlic alfredo on top of a crispy crust, sends our taste buds into a flavor-rich experience. Chefs worldwide have experimented with this dough-based dish, adding local meats and produce to find the perfect flavorful combination. It is a phenomenon enjoyed in many different variations and styles. Pizza is a popular global food, as it is shared easily among a table of family or friends. It is equally loved internationally and locally in Billings, Montana.

With a dream to open a pizza place downtown, McCormick Café owners Mike and David Schaer were more than ready to expand their restaurant business when the space next door to McCormick became available. They jumped at the opportunity to turn their dream into a reality with manager Charli Perry's help. Charli was excited for the new challenge, and with the assistance of her daughter, Devyn, the two began to construct the concept of a fun and lively local pizza joint with “crazy good pizza, wings and great music!” Charli said. And that is exactly what they have done.

M.A.D. Pizza officially opened its doors in the summer of 2021. With its unique location on historic Montana Avenue, M.A.D. provides a laid-back, chill vibe alongside a fun and entertaining atmosphere! The space was designed to “have things to read on the walls, conversation starters and funny quotes. Savannah Rains did all the murals and they are amazing!”, Charli explained.

After recently visiting myself, I can attest that it is a visual delight, with many things to look at and read. The attention to detail is impressive! “You can read the walls, eat delicious food, have a cold beer or cocktail from our full bar, and the staff is always willing to chat and laugh with you!” Steering away from being a “sports bar, " no TVs exist at M.A.D. The intent is for guests to socialize, talk, laugh, and spend quality time with friends, family, and the staff. Taking it back: old-school!

The ”pizza slinger,” as Charli described him, working hard behind the scenes to deliver the perfect pizza, is Justin Smidt. “He has nailed it every time,” she proudly boasted of their main man. While Charli and Devyn designed and crafted the one-of-a-kind menu, Justin brings their creations to life. “Once we showed him how we wanted the food to be made, he did not disappoint! Working together is how M.A.D. Pizza was born. The owners trusted us to make this happen, and it’s the best feeling,” Charli exclaimed. Teamwork makes the dream work!

What is the signature dish, you might ask? Well, it’s the M.A.D. pizza, of course! Loaded with pepperoni, bacon, Canadian bacon, Italian sausage, mushroom, onion, green peppers, and black olives, it’s an easy crowd-pleaser! “Pizza can be a funny thing, sometimes,” Charli said. “Each week, a different pizza will take center stage and shine. Our signature pizza is always popular! They each have their own personality, and the customers decide their favorite,” she said. “The wings speak for themselves. They are crunchy, juicy, and saucy, just how I love them. Our fried pickles are homemade, as well as our ranch and blue cheese. We are the only pizza place with a full bar,” Charli explained when asked about customer favorites and reasons they consistently return. One thing is for sure: you won’t leave M.A.D. Pizza “hungry or MAD,” Charli jokingly said.

In its somewhat short existence, M.A.D. Pizza has developed a loyal customer base. The crew at M.A.D. is very intentional, taking the time to invest in and build friendships with those who walk through the door, making it a warm and welcoming environment for all. Being involved in the community is also extremely important to M.A.D. Pizza and its staff. “We take part in the ArtWalk and the Historic Montana Ave Association,” Charli said. “Our future goals are to keep doing what we are doing and to one day expand! Historic Montana Ave Association and the businesses all participate in security service to keep patrons and employees safe,” she added.

Downtown Billings has a lot going on, and M.A.D. Pizza has a front-row seat to it all! It is open from 4:30 to 9 p.m. Wednesday through Thursday and 4:30 to 10 p.m. Friday through Saturday. Charli, Justin, and the crew hope to see you soon!

Originally printed in the March 2025 issue of Simply Local Magazine

Check this article out in the digital issue of Simply Local here!

Renata Haidle

Renata Haidle is a Romanian-American photographer, writer, and book author. An avid traveler, she credits Paris for sparking her photography career after her first visit there in 2014. Her first photo book, French Riviera, was published in July 2019.

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