Happy Joe’s Pizza & Ice Cream

Happy Joe’s Pizza & Ice Cream is a regional restaurant chain with deep roots in the Midwest, known for its combination of pizza, ice cream, and a welcoming, family-oriented atmosphere. The company was founded in 1972 by Joe Whitty in East Davenport, Iowa, and quickly built a reputation for its signature taco pizza and its role as a local gathering spot for birthdays and community celebrations. Over the years, Happy Joe’s has steadily grown its footprint across Iowa, Illinois, Minnesota, Missouri, North Dakota, and Wisconsin, operating a mix of company-owned and franchised locations.

As of November 2025, Happy Joe’s operates approximately 40 stores, maintaining a strong presence in small and mid-sized communities throughout the Upper Midwest. The brand has evolved in recent years by introducing new formats, including Happy Joe’s Express locations designed for smaller towns and non-traditional venues, alongside its full-service restaurants that feature party rooms and game areas. This flexible approach allows Happy Joe’s to adapt to a variety of retail environments and consumer preferences, from dine-in to off-premise service.

Expansion has been a priority for Happy Joe’s, with active efforts to grow through franchising and new store development. The company is seeking franchisees and real estate partners to support its strategy, focusing on both traditional and non-traditional sites. Backed by Dynamic Restaurant Holdings, LLC, Happy Joe’s benefits from experienced leadership in operations, franchising, and real estate, which supports its ongoing growth and ability to respond to market changes. The headquarters remain in Bettendorf, Iowa, and the brand continues to build on its founder’s legacy, blending innovation with a commitment to fun, food, and community connection.