Gina’s Pizza: A legacy for good food and community

by Tiffany Griffin

Photos by Brooke Mathis: Beautiful Evolutions Photography

“Pizza is round; it’s designed for you to eat it surrounded by friends and family,”

The story of Our Place goes back to 1986, when the original location opened in a cozy spot that’s now occupied by Sammy’s Pizza and Pasta. Otto Arslanovski, the heart and soul behind Our Place, comes from a family devoted to the restaurant industry. His mother, who passed away from brain cancer, was a significant part of the family’s restaurant legacy. After her passing, Otto’s father sold both family-owned restaurants, marking the end of an era. But for Otto, that chapter wasn’t quite closed. His love for the community and passion for food led him to re-establish Our Place in Burleson, where he reopened it at the site now known as The Porch. Finally, in 2012, Our Place moved to its current location, where Otto and his team have built a reputation for warm hospitality and memorable meals.

At Our Place, Otto is as much a part of the experience as the menu itself. It’s not uncommon to see him moving through the dining room, stopping at tables, chatting with patrons, and making sure everyone feels like family. His commitment to providing a welcoming atmosphere and delicious food is palpable—a dedication mirrored in his latest venture: Gina’s Pizzeria. But Otto’s passion doesn’t stop there; he’s also opening a smaller version of Our Place in Crowley. Named Our Place Too, this new spot is set to open towards the end of the year, offering another place where people can gather, share a meal, and enjoy the same warmth and hospitality that makes Our Place so beloved.

Meanwhile, the family’s restaurant legacy extends beyond Burleson. Otto’s brother, Benji, owns two additional restaurant locations—one in Mansfield and another in Cleburne. This keeps the Arslanovski family’s dedication to quality dining alive across the region, each location bringing a unique flavor to its community while sharing in the family’s values of hospitality and culinary excellence.

A staple in Burleson since 1971, Gina’s Pizzeria was originally founded by Gina Moseley, who created a haven for pizza lovers, rich with authentic recipes and a welcoming spirit. When Otto took over Gina’s, he sought to keep the legacy alive while updating the space and menu to resonate with a new generation of diners. Located at 319 NW Renfro Street, Gina’s has undergone a transformation that melds tradition with fresh, modern touches. The updated interior features a beautiful wood bar crafted from reclaimed wood out of a historic home in nearby Cleburne, complemented by an array of local history, music-themed artwork, and nostalgic photos from Gina’s past.

Under Otto’s guidance, the menu has expanded to offer not only the classic pizzas that regulars have loved for decades but also inventive new options like the Dill-icious Pickle Pizza and BBQ Pizza, which capture the unique spirit Otto brings to each of his establishments. The beloved Gina’s Meat Salad remains a crowd favorite, while new offerings such as Chicago-style Italian Beef Sandwiches and Italian Sausage and Peppers have added depth to the selection. The fluffy breadsticks, perfectly paired with marinara, are an absolute must-try for newcomers and longtime fans alike.

For Otto, food isn’t just about the meal—it’s about the experience. “Pizza is round; it’s designed for you to eat it surrounded by friends and family,” Otto shares. “We wanted Gina’s to be a comfortable place where everyone feels welcome to gather and enjoy each other’s company.” With this philosophy, he’s created a space that draws people together, blending great food with an ambiance that feels familiar and welcoming.

More than just a place to dine, Gina’s is now also a hub for entertainment. On Wednesday nights, the restaurant comes alive with karaoke, inviting guests to sing their hearts out, while Sunday evenings are reserved for live acoustic music, creating a cozy, vibrant atmosphere. These events embody Otto’s vision of making Gina’s a community-centered spot where guests feel like they’re part of something special.

Reflecting on his journey, Otto shares a personal connection to Gina’s. “Growing up in Illinois, we had a pizza place that lasted for 50 years before it eventually closed. Gina’s was headed down a similar path, and when the opportunity came, I knew I wanted to keep that legacy alive for future generations.” With Otto at the helm, Gina’s isn’t just staying open; it’s thriving, blending nostalgia with fresh energy to create a unique dining experience.

So, next time you’re looking to enjoy a meal that’s about more than just food, head over to Gina’s Pizzeria—or, if you’re nearby, look forward to visiting Our Place Too. Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering these places for the first time, both Gina’s and Our Place promise a welcoming atmosphere, delicious flavors, and a slice of local history that’s truly something special. Buon appetito!

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