A Prank Transforms into Generosity: Wyoming Pizza Joint’s Unique Response
August 27, 2026
A pizza restaurant in Wyoming faced an unexpected challenge when a prank resulted in an order for 18 pizzas totaling approximately $300. Instead of allowing the prank to waste resources, the restaurant seized the opportunity to contribute positively to the community.
Credit: L’Osteria Mondello on Facebook
L’Osteria Mondello in Cheyenne experienced a hectic Friday, with an order placed for 18 pizzas amid a busy shift.
“We had like over 40 pizzas in the same time,” owner Dave Agovic shared with Cowboy State Daily.
Due to the volume, the restaurant paused new orders and warned of a two-hour wait, yet managed to prepare the large prank order in about 40 minutes.
However, no one arrived to collect the pizzas. Upon calling the number used for the order, Agovic discovered it was a prank.
L’Osteria Mondello, typically not requiring prepayments, operates on trust. “Cheyenne is a small place, and Cheyenne is the place with wonderful people,” Agovic explained.
With 18 pizzas ready and a newfound purpose, Agovic consulted with his staff. One suggested they donate the pizzas to the local hospital.
“Why don’t we deliver it to the hospital?” Agovic said, leading to the decision to send the pizzas to Cheyenne Regional Medical Center’s emergency room.
The task of delivering these pizzas found a volunteer in Ryan Lemley, a former employee of the restaurant, who happened to visit at the right moment.
Owner Dave Agovic with Ryan Lemley
Lemley, having worked at L’Osteria Mondello for over two and a half years, took on the delivery task, ensuring the pizzas reached the hospital.
“He was my hero that day,” Agovic expressed, grateful for Lemley’s timely help.
What could have remained a wasteful prank transformed into a generous gesture towards healthcare workers, whom Agovic commended.
“They are very hardworking people and they help save a lot of lives around,” he said. “And I was like, let’s donate, let’s reward them.”
This situation underlines how unplanned events can lead to unexpected but meaningful acts of kindness, turning a prank into a positive for the community.
