Fort Collins’ food scene has always thrived on the unexpected, but few ventures capture the spirit of punk rebellion and comradery quite like Misfits Pizza. With sourdough crusts, punk-rock vibes and a passion for community, this Fort Collins favorite has built a loyal following since its opening in June 2023.

“The name ‘Misfits Pizza’ doesn’t come from the band,” said owner Dan Haddad, who proudly calls himself the biggest misfit. “It’s inspired by Anthony Bourdain’s quote: ‘In America, the professional kitchen is the last refuge of the misfit.’ It’s a place for people with bad pasts to find a new family.”

What sets Misfits Pizza apart from other food trucks is not only its spirit of rebellion or atmosphere of community but also the recipes it incorporates. Its pizza is thin and crispy on a sourdough crust — a hybrid of Chicago tavern style and New Haven pie — but ultimately, it’s its own thing: Misfits Pizza.

“Misfits Pizza is one of the best food trucks in Northern Colorado for sure,” returning customer Jamie Brooks said. “You know, the vibes, the people and, of course, the crazy pizza — it’s all just perfect. Every time they roll up to a brewery, I know it’s going to be a good night.”

“The most rewarding part of opening Misfits is all the friends I’ve made since we opened. Regulars and beertenders and all-around weirdos. It’s been a pretty awesome ride so far. I just hope people love the pizza. That’s what it’s all about: a love for pizza, and what’s better than pizza and punk rock?” –Dan Haddad, founder of Misfits Pizza

Haddad began washing dishes at a pizzeria in Jacksonville, Florida, when he was 15 years old. The kitchen culture, with its tattooed, foul-mouthed heroes who blared punk music and told stories of wild nights left a lasting impression on him.

“For years, I’d go from restaurant to restaurant and learn as much as I could —different cuisines and techniques — I was obsessed,” Haddad said. “Every time I would get burnt out, I’d go get a job in a pizzeria. There’s something calming about it for me, like a reset.”

Haddad’s path through the culinary world eventually led him to realize that pizza was his true passion. Over the years, Haddad worked his way through fine dining kitchens but always found himself returning to the simplicity and joy of making pizza. Eventually, with the help of friend and local business owner Reed Beaupre of Big Daddy Bagels, Haddad made the leap to start his own business. 

“The most rewarding part of opening Misfits is all the friends I’ve made since we opened,” Haddad said. “Regulars and beertenders and all-around weirdos. It’s been a pretty awesome ride so far. I just hope people love the pizza. That’s what it’s all about: a love for pizza, and what’s better than pizza and punk rock?”

Beyond food, community engagement is part of what makes Misfits Pizza special. The truck’s wood-fired oven now boasts a custom mural by local queer artist Avery Wyke, adding a colorful, rebellious flair to the truck’s aesthetic. The truck’s unique artwork, much like its pizzas, blends tradition with a rebellious streak.

“Misfits Pizza openly embraces the punk outlook, and it has a positive impact on the community,” Wyke said. “Working with Dan and his wife was such a positive experience. They even brought out snacks while I worked, and their dogs kept me company.”

Despite its hardcore aesthetic, Misfits Pizza is far from just a quirky novelty act; Haddad’s approach to business is rooted in a sense of community and care that hails from the original punk-rock scene of the 20th century. 

“Fuck capitalism,” Haddad said. “We’re living in late-stage capitalism where corporations rake in record profits and families struggle to pay rent. The government doesn’t care about us. What matters is how we show up for each other. If someone’s hungry, I feed them. It’s just the right thing to do.”

The future of Misfits Pizza is big. While the food truck has been a hit, Haddad envisions a brick-and-mortar location where live music, art shows and “weird and wacky shit” are part of the experience. 

“Food trucks like mine allow people like me, who’ve spent years slaving away in someone else’s kitchen, to do one thing really well and give back,” Haddad said. “It’s a counter-culture act in itself. It’s going to be a party every night. Misfits Pizza is bigger than a food truck, and I can’t wait to see where it goes.”

Reach Sophia Masia at life@collegian.com or on Twitter @csucollegian.