Possum Holler Opens Obetz’s First Sit-Down Restaurant!
Possum Holler Pizza – 1874 Lisle Ave, Obetz, Ohio
Possum Holler Pizza has been a beloved fixture in Obetz since 1972, making it one of the longest-standing businesses in the community. In August 2012, Gary and Robyn Hensley, longtime Obetz residents, took ownership of the establishment, fulfilling Gary’s 20-year dream of running the pizzeria he had admired for so long. With no prior business experience, the Hensleys embarked on their journey, determined to preserve an integral part of Obetz history while bringing their own vision to life.
Initially, Gary and Robyn kept their ownership under wraps, opting not to make any immediate changes. They were mindful of Possum Holler’s loyal customer base and wanted to ensure that the transition felt seamless. They retained the original recipes and menu offerings, allowing the business to continue thriving through word-of-mouth and growing local support. Over the years, their efforts paid off, as Possum Holler expanded its team, tripling its number of employees within five years.
The name Possum Holler Pizza carries a unique history. When the business first opened in 1972, it lacked an official name. The original owners, who were friends with country music legend George Jones—nicknamed “The Possum”—decided to name the restaurant after the venues he owned in Tennessee, calling it “Possum Holler Pizza.” That connection to music and tradition has remained a part of the restaurant’s identity.
Commitment to the Community
The Hensleys have consistently demonstrated their dedication to the Obetz community. Possum Holler Pizza has proudly supported Hamilton Local Schools, local sports leagues, and the HT Fire Department. They have sponsored numerous teams and events, seeing it as their responsibility to give back to the city that has supported them. As Obetz continues to develop, the Hensleys are eager to contribute to the city’s growth, recognizing that their success is tied to the progress of the broader community.
Exciting Expansion: Dining Room Opening on March 11, 2025
A major milestone for Possum Holler Pizza is just around the corner. On March 11, 2025, at 3 p.m., the restaurant will unveil its brand-new dining room, marking the launch of Obetz’s first sit-down restaurant. This new space will introduce a family-friendly sports bar atmosphere, offering a welcoming environment for both families and groups of friends. Modeled after Roosters but with a distinct focus on pizza, the new dining area will feature a rugged and industrial aesthetic, creating a relaxed yet modern ambiance.
To complement the expanded dining experience, the menu has been enhanced to include a dedicated kids’ menu, new wing sauces, and a full-service bar. Additionally, a patio space will be introduced in the summer, providing outdoor seating for guests to enjoy during the warmer months.
Looking ahead, the Hensleys have even more plans for the future. They hope to introduce live music, trivia nights, and karaoke, further establishing Possum Holler as a go-to entertainment destination in Obetz.
Robyn Hensley sums up their vision for the restaurant: “I want chill vibes. Like Roosters but pizza. I want everyone to be happy and having fun and eating and enjoying each other’s company. We want to be the local hangout, and we want to be able to pass this on for generations.”
After March 11, the restaurant will initially be open six days a week, allowing guests to experience the new space while the team fine-tunes operations.
Looking to the Future
Over the past few years, the Hensley’s have invested heavily in renovating the Possum Holler building. The space, which was originally split into three separate units, has been undergoing major upgrades. The kitchen, once a compact, one-person operation, has been completely modernized with new electrical systems, infrastructure updates, and state-of-the-art kitchen equipment. The building itself has seen extensive renovations, including a new roof, doors, windows, paint, and an improved layout for better functionality.
With their expansion, the Hensley’s aim to fill a gap in the local dining scene, providing a much-needed sit-down restaurant experience that the Obetz community has long awaited. As they continue growing, their goal remains the same: to offer a welcoming, community-driven establishment that serves as a gathering place for generations to come.
As Obetz grows, so does Possum Holler Pizza! The City of Obetz is excited for the future of Possum Holler, and the Hensley’s!