About Us
The Inspiration
Owner, Chad Cline started working in his grandmother Helen’s pizzeria when he was just seven years old. Mema, as she was affectionately called by her grandchildren, served a simple menu of pizza, Italian sandwiches and appetizers until her passing in 2000. She built her business by consistently delivering a quality product that was served with gratitude to her customers – many of which, she knew by first and last name. Mema would unknowingly pass on her entrepreneurial spirit to her grandson, Chad, who would later name his business in her honor.
Our Beginning
The concept for Mema's Italian Grinders started as a food truck during the fall of 2018. After three successful seasons on the food truck, many hours and a lot of hard work, the demand from customers continued to grow and the decision was made to begin the search for Mema’s first brick-and-mortar location. Ultimately, Grimes, Iowa was chosen for its welcoming small town feel and the first Mema’s Italian Grinders opened during the fall of 2021 as a carryout only Italian sandwich shop.
Carry-out or Delivery
Proudly offering a simple menu of sandwiches, pizza, appetizers and sides allows Mema's to maintain both quality and consistency for customers each and every visit. Mema's Italian Grinders is open for carry-out and delivery. Food can be ordered via the Online Ordering button on our website as well as on DoorDash and Grubhub. We look forward to serving you!