The Cupertino Courier
News
J.T. McHart's pizza place is one-of-a-kind in Cupertino
By RUBY ELBOGEN
When Robert Booth, proprietor of J.T. McHart's, opened the doors to this hometown pizza parlor, he was determined to offer a quality product by using the best ingredients available.
McHart's is not a big-box, corporate or franchised pizza place. The restaurant could be considered an anomaly, and a successful one at that.
Just shy of two decades at the same location in the Market Place Shopping Center on Stevens Creek at Portal Avenue, Booth has seen four U.S. presidents elected and has survived the Loma Prieta earthquake, the dot-com bust, major heat waves and the renovation of the shopping center.
Three generations of customers have enjoyed his pizza, and three generations of Booths have worked at McHart's. A local icon, Booth, who was born and raised in Mountain View, moved to Cupertino with his family years ago. Both sons graduated from local high schools. Son Chris still works with his father.
McHart's has seen many diet trends come and go, and this comfortable family-oriented place tries to accommodate diners with special food needs. The pizza's sourdough crust, normally served thick, can upon request be tossed until it's very thin to help those counting carbs. Problems with dairy? Hold the cheese. Sauce, too, can be adjusted to taste. Whatever customers want, all they have to do is ask. The salad bar has 24 items and is fresh and replenished often.
To help schools and organizations raise funds, Booth gives back to the community with his McHart's coupon program. He also donates food to the rotating shelter program, through Cupertino Community Services, which a collaborative effort between 11 churches and one synagogue that provide shelter, food and case management to homeless men.
Along with air-conditioned dining, McHart's offers takeout plus catering for parties and corporate events.
J.T. McHart's Pizza Restaurant, open seven days a week, is located at 19732 Stevens Creek Blvd. in the Marketplace Shopping Center. For information, call 408.255.0500.
