Rise Woodfire: A Story of Persistence, Passion, and Evolution
Every great endeavor has humble beginnings, and Rise Woodfire is no exception. To truly understand who we are today, we have to go back to where it all started—a time when passion collided with opportunity and a dream began to take shape.
The Roots of Rise
In the early 2000s, pizza was experiencing a renaissance. Fast-food chains were giving way to artisan creations, and woodfired ovens were becoming the centerpiece of a new culinary movement. It was during this time that Omid, working in finance and dreaming of something greater, found himself inspired by the transformation happening in the world of food. Around the same time, he and Susan were planning their future together. The spark of creativity and love for food led Omid to build “Lucy,” a custom trailer outfitted with a handmade woodfired oven. With Lucy as their first test kitchen, Omid began experimenting with dough recipes and the art of woodfired cooking.
It wasn’t easy—there were countless failed attempts to secure a brick-and-mortar location. But persistence prevailed, and in time, a landlord in Burlingame saw their passion and took a chance on them. That’s how the original Rise came to life. A small restaurant with a big heart, it quickly became a local favorite, known for its warm atmosphere and authentic, flavorful dishes.
The Inception of Rise Woodfire
The evolution from Rise to Rise Woodfire reflects the journey of Susan and Omid as both restaurateurs and innovators. That iconic photo of them at Burlingame captures this chapter beautifully: Omid in the kitchen, perfecting recipes and refining his craft, and Susan ensuring every guest felt like family. Together, they built a brand that celebrated community and culinary excellence.
But the story didn’t end there. As their expertise grew, so did their vision. They began to incorporate woodfired cooking as a central part of their menu, crafting bold flavors and experiences that transcended the original concept. This evolution led to the rebranding as Rise Woodfire, where the name now encapsulates their signature process and philosophy.
Why “Rise”?
The name “Rise” holds deep significance. It originates from the meticulous care behind our 5-Rise dough process: Sponge Rise, Bulk Rise, Ball Rise, Cool Rise, and Oven Rise. This method creates unparalleled depth of flavor and texture, reflecting the patience and dedication that defines everything we do.
Yet, “Rise” also represents the journey itself—the challenges faced, the lessons learned, and the growth achieved. It’s a name that honors our roots while looking toward the future, where woodfired cooking and a commitment to quality continue to shape our brand.
A Family-Owned Legacy
From Lucy’s early days of experimentation to the bustling kitchens of Rise Woodfire today, the heart of our story remains unchanged: a love for food, a dedication to craft, and a passion for bringing people together. We remain family-owned and driven by the same values that sparked this journey years ago.
Rise Woodfire isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a testament to what’s possible when you combine inspiration, hard work, and a little bit of fire. Welcome to our table. Welcome to Rise.
OUR TEAM
Our team at Rise Woodfire is passionate about creating unforgettable dining experiences. From the crackle of our woodfire ovens to the warmth of our service, every detail is crafted with care. We're a group of dedicated food lovers who take pride in bringing bold flavors and fresh, quality ingredients to your plate. Together, we’re fired up to serve you with heart and hospitality!