Our Story

More Than Just a Meal —
It's a Tradition

Since 1978, Dions has been serving Las Cruces with bold flavors, real ingredients, and a whole lot of heart. Here's the story behind every bite.

45+ Years in Business
12 Locations
200+ Team Members
1M+ Happy Guests

The Dions Story

It started with a recipe, a small kitchen, and an unwavering belief that great food should never be complicated — just honest, fresh, and full of flavor.

In 1978, founder Dion Martinez opened the very first Dions on a quiet corner of Las Cruces, New Mexico. Armed with family recipes passed down through generations and a fierce dedication to quality, Dion wanted to create a place where the whole community could gather over food that felt like home.

"We didn't set out to build a restaurant empire. We set out to feed our neighbors well — and everything grew from there." — Dion Martinez, Founder

Decades later, that original spirit remains at the core of everything we do. From our hand-stretched dough and fresh-cut toppings to our made-from-scratch sauces, every item on our menu honors the tradition Dion started. We've grown to over 12 locations across New Mexico, but our soul has never left that original kitchen.

Today, Dions is a beloved institution — a place where locals celebrate milestones, families share weekday dinners, and visitors get their first taste of true New Mexico flavor.

Inside Dions restaurant — warm dining room atmosphere
1978 Est. Las Cruces, NM

Our Mission

To serve food that's honest, ingredients that are real, and an experience that brings people together — every single day.

Fresh First

We source local produce whenever possible and never compromise on ingredient quality. Fresh is our standard, not our exception.

Community Rooted

Las Cruces made us who we are. We give back through local partnerships, sponsorships, and by hiring from the neighborhoods we serve.

Uncompromising Quality

Every pizza, salad, and sub meets the same standard Dion set in 1978. Our recipes evolve, but our commitment to quality never wavers.

People First Culture

Our team members are family. We invest in their growth, wellbeing, and careers because when they thrive, our guests feel the difference.

Our Core Values

01

Integrity in Every Ingredient

We're transparent about what goes into our food. No fillers, no shortcuts, no compromises — just honest food made the right way.

02

Respect for Our Roots

Our heritage is New Mexican, and we honor that in our flavors, our culture, and the way we treat every person who walks through our doors.

03

Innovation with Purpose

We embrace new ideas that enhance the guest experience or reduce our environmental impact — but never just for the sake of novelty.

04

Genuine Hospitality

Every guest deserves to feel welcome. From the first hello to the final bite, we make every visit memorable.

Dions team members working together in a welcoming restaurant setting

45 Years of Bold Flavor

From a single storefront to a beloved New Mexico institution — here are the milestones that shaped Dions.

1978

The First Slice

Dion Martinez opens the original Dions on Lohman Avenue, Las Cruces. Hand-tossed dough and family recipes draw a loyal crowd from day one.

1985

Expanding the Family

Dions opens its second location in response to overwhelming demand. The salad bar and sub sandwich menu are introduced, instantly becoming customer favorites.

1994

New Mexico Award

Dions is named "Best Pizza in New Mexico" by the Albuquerque Journal — a recognition that puts the brand on the regional map and fuels rapid growth.

2003

Going Digital

Dions launches one of the state's first online ordering systems, making it easier than ever for loyal guests to get their favorite food delivered.

2012

Local Sourcing Pledge

Dions formalizes its commitment to fresh, locally sourced ingredients — partnering with regional farmers and suppliers across New Mexico.

2020

Community Through Crisis

During a challenging year, Dions donates thousands of meals to frontline workers and families in need — reinforcing its role as a community anchor.

2024

New Era, Same Soul

With 12 locations and a refreshed brand identity, Dions enters its next chapter — honoring the legacy of its founder while embracing the future.

Meet Our Team

Our passionate team brings decades of combined experience, a love of great food, and an unshakeable commitment to the Dions tradition.

Marcus Rivera
Chief Executive Officer

Second-generation owner who grew up in the restaurants. Marcus leads Dions with the same passion his father instilled from the very beginning.

Sofia Gutierrez
Head Chef & Menu Director

A Culinary Institute graduate with 18 years at Dions. Sofia is the creative force behind every seasonal special and menu innovation.

James Thornton
Director of Operations

With a background in hospitality management, James ensures every one of our 12 locations delivers the same consistent, exceptional experience.

Priya Nair
Director of Marketing

Priya tells the Dions story to the world. From digital campaigns to community events, she keeps the brand vibrant, authentic, and connected.

Interested in joining the Dions family?

View Open Positions

Come Experience Dions

Now that you know our story, come be a part of it. Order online, visit us, or bring the whole team for catering.

Find Us
3950 E Lohman Ave
Las Cruces, NM 88011
Call Us
Hours
Mon – Sat: 10am – 10pm
Sunday: 11am – 9pm