Russo's New York Pizzeria

Russo's Among The Best Pizza Delivery in Dubai

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 18:43:18 GMT

What Makes Russo's Different In Dubai

At Russo's, the commitment has always been to doing pizza the right way.

This includes:

Authentic New York-style dough, crafted for the perfect balance of crisp and chew
Generous toppings, including our fan-favorite Pepperoni Classic
Oversized slices and XL pizzas designed for sharing (or not)
Fresh, high-quality ingredients in every bite

Each of our recipes follows Italian tradition, and each pizza is a combination of the taste of Naples and Sicily with bold New York style. For Dubai's fast-paced style of living, great pizza delivery is a must and Russo's is built for exactly that. Russo’s pizza can be ordered from Noon, Careem, and most delivery apps and you can count on these things:

Consistent, quality pizza every time.
Pizza delivered fresh and hot.
Pizza, pasta, and salad options available, and more.

According to What’s On , Russo’s is one of the most popular places to order from when the urge hits to order food and you don’t want to get off the couch.

When it comes to pizza in Dubai, there’s no shortage of options. But standing out in a city known for world-class dining is no easy task.

That is why Russo's New York Pizzeria is excited to announce that ' What's On ' has placed Russo's in a list of the best pizza delivery options in Dubai.

For the most recent publication, 'What's On' specifically selected Russo's New York Pizzeria for their description of NY style pizza as \"the real deal\". They especially love the giant and thin foldable slices that scream NY in the Big Apple, and now in the UAE.

More Than Just Pizza

We have New York-style pizza, but Russo’s is a complete Italian dining experience. Try our hand-made pastas, signature dishes, and fresh salads. Everything is made to order and of the highest quality.

We don’t just focus on delivery. We focus on delivering an experience.

We have worked hard to be recognized as one of the top choices in Dubai pizza delivery and that honor is not lost on us. It shows the passion and hard work of our entire team. Each order reflects this.

We are sure that Russo’s will be your first choice pizza from the rest of Dubai’s inferior options. Order your pizza now!

Looking to open up a Russo's New York Pizzeria in Dubai, take a look at our pizza franchise opportunity: https://www.russosfranchise.com/the-united-arab-emirates

Try One of Dubai’s Best Pizza's Tonight

The Difference Between Chain Pizza and Authentic Italian Pizza

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 14:25:00 GMT

Pizza is one of the most popular foods in America, but not all pizza is created equal. While national chains offer convenience and familiarity, authentic Italian pizza delivers a completely different experience. From ingredients to preparation to flavor, the difference is noticeable from the first bite.

At Russo’s New York Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen, we believe pizza should reflect tradition, quality, and craftsmanship. Here’s what truly sets authentic Italian pizza apart from mass-produced chain options.

It Starts with the Dough

Authentic Italian pizza begins with properly prepared dough. Traditional recipes focus on simple ingredients such as flour, water, yeast, salt, and olive oil. The dough is often allowed to ferment naturally, which enhances flavor and creates the perfect texture.

Many chain restaurants rely on pre-made or heavily processed dough designed for speed and uniformity. While consistent, it often lacks the depth of flavor and structure that comes from traditional preparation.

At Russo’s, dough is crafted to achieve that classic New York-style balance: thin yet sturdy, crisp on the outside with a soft, airy interior.

Quality Ingredients Make a Noticeable Difference

Authentic Italian pizza emphasizes fresh, high-quality ingredients. From rich tomato sauce to premium mozzarella and carefully selected toppings, each component plays a role in the final flavor.

Chain pizza often prioritizes cost efficiency and mass production. Ingredients may be pre-packaged, heavily processed, or designed for long shelf life rather than peak flavor.

Russo’s New York Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen focuses on fresh vegetables, premium meats, and authentic recipes inspired by true Italian traditions. The result is a pizza that tastes vibrant and balanced rather than overly greasy or heavy.

Cooking Methods Matter

Traditional pizza is typically cooked at high temperatures, often in brick or stone ovens. This method creates a crisp crust while locking in flavor and moisture.

Many chain pizzas are baked in conveyor belt ovens designed for volume and speed. While efficient, they may not achieve the same texture or depth of flavor.

The cooking process at Russo’s is designed to deliver that signature New York-style finish: perfectly melted cheese, balanced sauce, and a crust with just the right amount of bite.

Flavor Over Convenience

Chain pizza is often designed for quick ordering and standardized flavor profiles. Authentic Italian pizza focuses on craftsmanship and experience. The goal is not just to serve food quickly, but to serve food that reflects culinary tradition.

From hand-tossed dough to carefully layered toppings, authentic pizza is about attention to detail. That care translates into better taste and a more satisfying meal.

More Than Just Pizza

Another difference lies in the overall menu. Authentic Italian kitchens offer more than just slices. At Russo’s, guests can enjoy classic pasta dishes, fresh salads, baked entrées, and Italian specialties alongside their pizza. It is a full dining experience rooted in tradition.

Taste the Difference at Russo’s

If you have only experienced mass-produced pizza, trying authentic New York-style pizza can completely change your expectations. The difference is in the dough, the ingredients, the cooking process, and the passion behind every dish.

Russo’s New York Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen is committed to delivering true Italian flavor inspired by New York roots. Whether you are dining in, ordering takeout, or planning catering for an event, contact us today to experience the difference authentic pizza makes.

The post The Difference Between Chain Pizza and Authentic Italian Pizza appeared first on Russo's New York Pizzeria .

Planning a Party? Why Italian Catering Is Always a Crowd Pleaser

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 13:20:00 GMT

When it comes to hosting an event, food is one of the biggest factors in how guests remember the experience. Whether you are planning an office lunch, a birthday celebration, a graduation party, or a family gathering, choosing the right catering option can make planning easier and the event more enjoyable for everyone.

That is why Italian catering remains one of the most popular and reliable choices for parties of all sizes. At Russo’s New York Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen, we offer catering options that bring authentic New York flavor to your event, with crowd-pleasing dishes that satisfy every appetite.

Italian Food Offers Something for Everyone

One of the biggest advantages of Italian catering is variety. Not every guest wants the same thing, and Italian cuisine makes it easy to accommodate different tastes. Some guests may want a classic slice of pepperoni pizza, while others prefer a hearty pasta dish, a fresh salad, or baked Italian favorites.

Russo’s catering menu includes options like pizza trays, pasta trays, salads, appetizers, and more. With so many choices available, it is easy to build a catering order that appeals to both picky eaters and adventurous food lovers.

Perfect for Casual Events and Formal Celebrations

Italian catering is incredibly versatile. Pizza and pasta are naturally social foods, making them ideal for casual gatherings like birthday parties or game-day events. At the same time, baked pasta trays, chicken dishes, and Italian entrée options can feel elevated enough for more formal celebrations such as wedding showers or corporate events.

Whether your party is relaxed and fun or more polished and professional, Russo’s makes it easy to match the menu to the mood.

Easy Serving, Easy Cleanup

Another reason Italian catering is a go-to option is convenience. Pizza boxes, party trays, and pasta pans are simple to serve and easy for guests to grab without needing complicated setups. This makes Italian catering a great fit for buffet-style events, meetings, and large family gatherings.

It also means less stress for the host. With food that stays warm, travels well, and is easy to portion out, you can focus more on your guests and less on managing the kitchen.

Food That Feels Comforting and Memorable

Italian food is known for being warm, comforting, and satisfying. It brings people together and creates an inviting atmosphere, which is exactly what you want at a celebration. Guests remember a meal that feels generous, flavorful, and filling.

Russo’s New York Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen is known for authentic New York-style pizza, fresh ingredients, and classic Italian recipes that deliver the kind of flavor people crave. When you cater with Russo’s, you are not just serving food. You are creating an experience that feels special and familiar at the same time.

Catering That Works for Any Occasion

Italian catering works well for:

Birthday parties
Office lunches and corporate meetings
Graduation celebrations
Holiday gatherings
Family reunions
Game day parties
School events
Community celebrations

No matter the occasion, Russo’s catering makes it easier to feed a crowd without sacrificing quality.

Contact Russo’s New York Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen

If you are planning a party or event and want food that guests will genuinely enjoy, Italian catering is always a smart choice. Russo’s New York Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen offers catering options that are convenient, flavorful, and perfect for groups of all sizes. Contact us today to learn more about our catering menu and place your order for your next event.

The post Planning a Party? Why Italian Catering Is Always a Crowd Pleaser appeared first on Russo's New York Pizzeria .

Celebrating Family, Food, and Italian Tradition at Russo’s

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 20:59:00 GMT

Italian cuisine has always been about more than just food. It’s about family, tradition, and coming together around the table to share a meal made with care. At Russo’s New York Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen, those values are at the heart of everything we do, from the recipes we use to the way we welcome guests into our restaurants.

The Heart of Italian Dining

In Italian culture, meals are meant to be shared. The kitchen is often the center of the home, where generations gather to cook, eat, and connect. Russo’s embraces this tradition by creating a warm, inviting environment where friends and families can slow down, enjoy great food, and make lasting memories together.

Whether it’s a casual lunch, a family dinner, or a celebration with loved ones, Russo’s is designed to feel like a place where everyone belongs.

Recipes Rooted in Tradition

Authentic Italian cooking is built on simple recipes made the right way. At Russo’s New York Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen, we stay true to classic Italian and New York-style pizza traditions while delivering consistency and quality across every location.

From fresh dough made daily to house-made sauces crafted with care, each dish reflects a respect for time-honored methods. These traditions allow the natural flavors of quality ingredients to shine, creating meals that feel both comforting and familiar.

Bringing People Together, One Meal at a Time

Few foods bring people together like pizza. Sharing a pie encourages conversation, connection, and a sense of togetherness that is central to Italian dining culture. At Russo’s, pizza is more than a menu item. It’s an invitation to gather, share, and enjoy the moment.

With a menu that offers something for everyone, from classic cheese and pepperoni pizzas to hearty pasta dishes, calzones, and fresh salads, Russo’s makes it easy to please every guest at the table.

A Family-Friendly Experience

Russo’s New York Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen is proud to be a family-friendly restaurant where guests of all ages feel welcome. Our comfortable atmosphere, generous portions, and wide variety of menu options make Russo’s a natural choice for families looking to enjoy a meal together without sacrificing quality or authenticity.

Whether you’re introducing your kids to their first slice of New York-style pizza or enjoying a relaxed dinner with extended family, Russo’s delivers an experience rooted in hospitality and care.

Honoring Tradition While Looking Ahead

While tradition plays a vital role in everything we do, Russo’s also understands the importance of evolving with our guests. By blending classic Italian recipes with modern convenience, including dine-in, takeout, and delivery options, we make it easy to enjoy authentic Italian flavors in a way that fits today’s lifestyles.

This balance between honoring the past and embracing the present is what continues to define Russo’s New York Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen.

A Place Where Tradition Lives On

At its core, Russo’s is about celebrating what matters most: great food, shared moments, and the traditions that bring people together. Every meal served is an extension of Italian hospitality and a reflection of the values that have shaped our kitchens from the very beginning.

Whether you’re gathering with family, meeting friends, or simply enjoying a quiet meal, Russo’s New York Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen invites you to be part of a tradition built on flavor, connection, and community. Find a Russo's location near you today!

The post Celebrating Family, Food, and Italian Tradition at Russo’s appeared first on Russo's New York Pizzeria .

National Pizza Week Just Got Better at Russo’s

Sat, 10 Jan 2026 20:24:00 GMT

National Pizza Week is celebrated every year from January 11th through January 17th, and at Russo’s New York Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen, it’s more than just a week on the calendar. It’s a celebration of tradition, craftsmanship, and the flavors that have made pizza a beloved staple around the world.

From hand-tossed dough to house-made sauces and premium ingredients, Russo’s invites pizza lovers everywhere to celebrate National Pizza Week the right way, with authentic New York-style pizza and Italian classics made fresh daily.

A Slice of History Worth Celebrating

Pizza has a long and storied history, but New York-style pizza holds a special place in American food culture. Known for its thin, foldable crust, balanced sauce, and generous cheese, it’s the kind of pizza that brings people together, whether you’re grabbing a quick lunch or sharing a pie with family and friends.

At Russo’s New York Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen, we honor that tradition by staying true to the roots of New York pizza while elevating every pie with high-quality ingredients and time-tested techniques.

What Makes Russo’s Pizza Stand Out

National Pizza Week is the perfect time to appreciate what sets Russo’s apart. Every pizza starts with fresh dough made in-house daily. Our sauces are crafted from vine-ripened tomatoes and seasoned to perfection. Cheeses are carefully selected, and toppings range from classic pepperoni to gourmet options that satisfy every craving.

Whether you prefer a traditional cheese pizza or something more adventurous, Russo’s menu offers something for everyone. Our commitment to consistency and quality ensures that every slice delivers the flavor and experience our guests expect.

More Than Just Pizza

While pizza may be the star of National Pizza Week, Russo’s New York Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen is proud to offer a full menu of Italian favorites. From baked pastas and calzones to fresh salads and appetizers, there’s no shortage of ways to turn your pizza night into a complete Italian dining experience.

It’s this variety, paired with authentic flavors, that makes Russo’s a go-to destination for casual meals, family dinners, and group gatherings throughout the year.

Celebrate Your Way

National Pizza Week is all about enjoying pizza in a way that fits your lifestyle. Dine in and enjoy the welcoming atmosphere, order takeout for a cozy night at home, or have your favorites delivered straight to your door. However you choose to celebrate, Russo’s makes it easy to enjoy high-quality pizza without compromise.

Many locations also feature special offers or seasonal favorites, making National Pizza Week the perfect excuse to try something new or revisit a longtime favorite.

Join the Celebration

From January 11th through January 17th, Russo’s New York Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen invites pizza lovers everywhere to celebrate National Pizza Week with authentic flavor, quality ingredients, and a passion for Italian cuisine.

Whether you’re a lifelong fan of New York-style pizza or discovering Russo’s for the first time, there’s no better week to indulge in a slice, or two, of something truly special.

Stop by your nearest Russo’s location or place an order online and make National Pizza Week a delicious tradition you look forward to every year.

The post National Pizza Week Just Got Better at Russo’s appeared first on Russo's New York Pizzeria .

Make End-Of-Year Celebrations Easy with Russo’s Catering

Sat, 20 Dec 2025 12:00:00 GMT

The end of the year is packed with reasons to celebrate. Christmas parties, office lunches, family gatherings, school events, New Year’s Eve get-togethers, and everything in between. The only downside is the planning. Hosting is fun, but figuring out what to feed a group can quickly become the most stressful part of the season.

That is where Russo’s New York Pizzeria catering comes in. Whether you are planning a casual holiday lunch or a big New Year’s Eve celebration, Russo’s makes it simple to serve crowd-pleasing food without spending your day shopping, cooking, and cleaning.

Catering That Works for Every Kind of Holiday Event

Not every end-of-year event looks the same. Some are formal, some are casual, and some are thrown together last minute because friends are in town. Russo’s catering fits them all because pizza and Italian favorites are always a hit, and they are easy for guests to enjoy.

Russo’s catering is a great option for:

Company holiday parties and office lunches
Family Christmas gatherings and neighborhood parties
School, team, or club celebrations
Friendsgiving-style potlucks and casual get-togethers
New Year’s Eve parties, game nights, and movie nights
Client appreciation events and open houses

No matter the crowd, the goal is the same. Serve food that people actually want to eat, and keep hosting simple.

Why Russo’s Is a Holiday Hosting Favorite

Holiday schedules are busy. Catering helps you take one major task off your plate, and Russo’s makes it even easier because the menu is built for sharing.

When you cater with Russo’s, you get:

Convenience: Less prep, less mess, and less time spent in the kitchen
Crowd-Pleasing Options: Everyone can find something they like
Easy Serving: Great for buffet-style setups and casual mingling
Reliable Quality: Made fresh and ready when you need it

Instead of worrying about timing multiple dishes at once, you can focus on welcoming guests and enjoying the moment.

Perfect for Christmas Gatherings

Christmas events often bring together a mix of ages and preferences. Russo’s catering keeps it simple with food that works for kids, adults, and everyone in between. It is also ideal for open-house style gatherings where guests are coming and going throughout the day.

If you are hosting family, friends, or neighbors, catering is a smart way to keep the vibe relaxed while still serving a meal people are excited about.

A Go-To Choice for New Year’s Eve

New Year’s Eve is all about celebrating, not stressing. It is also a night when people want food that is fun, easy, and perfect for sharing. Russo’s catering fits the moment, whether you are hosting a smaller group or a full house.

Pizza and Italian favorites pair perfectly with a countdown night because guests can grab a slice, snack while they mingle, and enjoy food that does not slow the party down. It is a simple upgrade that makes your gathering feel organized and effortless.

Tips for a Smooth Catering Experience

To make your end-of-year catering even easier:

Order early when possible, especially for peak dates
Estimate portions based on your guest count and how long the event lasts
Add variety so different tastes are covered
Set up a simple serving station with plates, napkins, and drinks nearby

A little planning goes a long way, and catering helps everything feel more manageable.

Cater Your Celebration With Russo’s

If you are hosting an end-of-year celebration, Russo’s New York Pizzeria is ready to help you feed your guests without the hassle. From Christmas gatherings to New Year’s Eve parties and everything in between, catering is the easiest way to serve great food and actually enjoy your event.

Reach out to a Russo’s location near you to place your catering order and make your celebration delicious, simple, and stress-free.

The post Make End-Of-Year Celebrations Easy with Russo’s Catering appeared first on Russo's New York Pizzeria .

Franchise Your Own Russo’s New York Pizzeria: A Smarter Way To Own A Restaurant

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 18:06:00 GMT

If you have ever dreamed of owning a restaurant, you are not alone. The challenge is that starting from scratch can be risky, expensive, and overwhelming, especially if you are new to the industry. Franchising offers a more structured path, and Russo’s New York Pizzeria is built for entrepreneurs who want the excitement of restaurant ownership with a proven system behind them.

Russo’s has earned a loyal following by delivering the kind of food people crave , paired with an operational model designed for consistency and scalability. When you franchise a Russo’s location, you are not just buying a name. You are investing in a business framework, support team, and resources that help you launch with confidence and grow with purpose.

Strong Unit-Level Economics That Make Sense

One of the most important questions any franchisee should ask is, “Do the numbers work?” Russo’s offers strong unit-level economics, including $1,164,000 in average unit sales , with a low start-up cost of around $250,000 . For many entrepreneurs, that combination is a major advantage. It means you can pursue ownership with a model designed for high margins, while still keeping your initial investment relatively manageable compared to many restaurant concepts.

A business that performs well at the unit level gives you more flexibility. It can support reinvestment, hiring, local marketing, and the ability to build a stable operation that lasts.

Training and Support, Even if You Are New to Restaurants

You do not need decades of restaurant experience to become a great franchise owner, but you do need the right guidance. Russo’s provides training and ongoing support to help franchisees understand operations, food execution, service standards, and day-to-day management.

This support is especially valuable for newcomers to the restaurant industry. Instead of trying to figure everything out on your own, you have access to a team that has already done it. That means fewer expensive mistakes and a smoother ramp-up as you learn what it takes to run a successful location.

Access to Suppliers and Resources That Simplify Operations

Sourcing ingredients, supplies, and equipment can become a full-time job when you run an independent restaurant. With Russo’s, franchisees benefit from pre-negotiated suppliers and established resources , which can translate into cost savings and more predictable logistics.

This is a major advantage because consistency matters in food service. When your ingredients and supplies are streamlined through a trusted system, you can focus more on serving customers and less on managing vendor chaos.

A Proven Business Model That Reduces Risk

Starting a restaurant from scratch means building everything yourself, including recipes, systems, staffing processes, and operational standards. Russo’s offers a proven business model with standardized recipes and operational guidelines that reduce the risk of guesswork.

You are able to start with a clear roadmap. That structure helps franchisees maintain quality, speed, and consistency while creating a better customer experience. It also makes it easier to train employees and scale your operation as you grow.

Marketing and Advertising Support to Drive Customer Traffic

Marketing matters, especially when launching a new location. Russo’s franchise system includes marketing and advertising support designed to build brand awareness and help attract customers.

Instead of relying only on trial and error, franchisees benefit from a larger brand presence and tools that support local promotion. A strong marketing foundation can help your location ramp up faster, stay visible, and create long-term customer loyalty.

Potential for Growth with Multi-Unit Ownership

Many franchise owners do not want to stop at one location. Russo’s offers multi-unit ownership opportunities , giving successful franchisees a pathway to expand their business and geographic reach. If you are an entrepreneur who wants to build something bigger over time, that growth potential is a key advantage.

With a scalable model and strong unit-level performance, expansion becomes a realistic goal, not just a dream.

Ready to Explore Owning A Russo’s?

Franchising your own Russo’s New York Pizzeria location is a powerful way to step into restaurant ownership with support, structure, and a proven model behind you. If you want a business with strong economics, training, supplier resources, marketing assistance, and growth potential, Russo’s is a franchise opportunity worth exploring.

The post Franchise Your Own Russo’s New York Pizzeria: A Smarter Way To Own A Restaurant appeared first on Russo's New York Pizzeria .

Best Bites Near NRG Stadium

Tue, 02 Dec 2025 21:12:00 GMT

Heading to NRG Park to catch a Houston Texans game, enjoy the rodeo, or a concert of your favorite artist? You are not alone! Thousands of locals and out-of-town visitors flock to NRG, which hosts major games, concerts, and conventions year-round at this entertainment hub comprising NRG Stadium, NRG Arena, NRG Center, and the famous historic NRG Astrodome. And many visitors explore restaurants near the NRG Park before or after the event to make it a day to remember. Here are some hot spots where you’ll find the best bites near NRG.-- View full

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What Makes New York-Style Pizza Different (and Why It Matters)

Tue, 25 Nov 2025 10:00:00 GMT

Few foods are as iconic as a slice of New York-style pizza. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a cultural experience, a moment of comfort, and for many, the ultimate pizza standard. But what exactly sets New York-style pizza apart from other famous varieties like Neapolitan, Chicago deep dish, or Sicilian? At Russo’s New York Pizzeria , we stay true to the tradition that made this style world-famous, and it all comes down to the details.

The Crust: Crispy, Foldable, and Just Right

The foundation of every great pizza is the crust, and New York-style is known for its perfect balance—thin, yet strong enough to hold its toppings. The edges puff up slightly, giving you that golden, chewy “handle” that makes every bite satisfying.

Unlike Neapolitan pizza, which is ultra-thin and soft in the center (best eaten with a knife and fork), New York pizza has a crisp bottom that supports its toppings without becoming soggy. And it’s miles apart from the buttery, biscuit-like crust of Chicago’s deep-dish pies. When you grab a slice of Russo’s pizza and fold it in half, you’ll understand why New Yorkers do it—it’s the ideal grab-and-go comfort food.

The Sauce: Simple, Fresh, and Flavorful

New York-style pizza sauce keeps it classic. Russo’s uses vine-ripened tomatoes, fresh basil, and the perfect blend of herbs and spices to create a light, slightly sweet sauce that complements the cheese instead of overpowering it.

Neapolitan sauce is often uncooked, made from fresh San Marzano tomatoes for a raw tomato flavor, while Chicago-style pizzas are loaded with thick, chunky sauce baked on top. New York-style hits that middle ground: smooth, balanced, and spread evenly across the dough for every bite.

The Cheese: Stretchy, Melty Perfection

At Russo’s, we use only premium mozzarella cheese that melts beautifully across the entire slice. The key to New York-style cheese is coverage; it should reach nearly to the edge of the crust, bubbling and slightly browned in spots. In contrast, Neapolitan pizzas often feature patches of fresh mozzarella, while Chicago-style pies use layers of cheese beneath the sauce.

That classic stretch when you pull apart a New York slice? That’s the magic of mozzarella done right.

Why It Matters

New York-style pizza isn’t just different; it’s dependable. It’s the slice that feels like home, the one that’s perfect for lunch on the go, family dinners, or late-night cravings. At Russo’s, we honor that legacy with authentic recipes, hand-stretched dough, and ingredients crafted to perfection. When you bite into a Russo’s slice, you’re tasting decades of pizza tradition straight from New York, with a little extra love in every bite.

Ready to taste the difference real New York-style pizza makes? Visit your nearest Russo’s locatio n and experience handcrafted pies made with fresh ingredients, authentic recipes, and the unmistakable flavor of New York in every slice. Stop by today and see why Russo’s is the neighborhood favorite for unforgettable pizza done right.

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Russo’s Catering for Events: Tips & Menu Planning

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 19:54:00 GMT

Planning a memorable event starts with one thing everyone loves—great food! Whether you’re hosting a corporate gathering, family celebration, or holiday party, Russo’s New York Pizzeria makes catering effortless, delicious, and crowd-pleasing. With a wide variety of authentic Italian dishes , fresh ingredients, and generous portions, we help you create a menu that fits your occasion perfectly.

Choosing the Right Trays and Party Pizzas

When catering with Russo’s , variety is key. Our catering trays make it easy to serve groups of any size, whether you’re looking for hearty pasta dishes like baked ziti and fettuccine alfredo, or lighter options such as caprese salad and grilled chicken Caesar. Choose a combination of entrée, side, and salad trays to ensure every guest finds something they love.

And don’t forget our party-sized pizzas! Perfect for feeding a crowd, these oversized New York-style pies come with all your favorite toppings—or try one of our specialty pizzas, like the Truffle Mushroom, Margherita, or Italian Works. Party pizzas are a must-have for casual gatherings or game-day events.

Timing and Serving Tips

For seamless service, timing is everything. Russo’s catering specialists can help you plan pick-up or delivery so your food arrives fresh and ready to serve. We recommend scheduling delivery about 30 minutes before guests arrive to allow time for setup. If you’re serving buffet-style, label each dish for easy identification and keep hot trays covered until mealtime.

Want to elevate your presentation? Mix in family-style serving platters for a homier feel. Add freshly baked garlic rolls to complete the spread, because no Italian meal is complete without a little extra bread to share.

Sweet Finishes

Every celebration deserves dessert! Russo’s offers a range of classic Italian sweets, including tiramisu, cannoli, and New York cheesecake. Pair your dessert trays with coffee or espresso service to give your guests a sweet, satisfying ending.

Think Outside the Turkey This Thanksgiving

Who says Thanksgiving dinner has to be all about turkey and stuffing? This year, change things up with an Italian twist. Imagine trays of baked lasagna, creamy pasta, and garlic knots instead of the traditional fare. Russo’s catering brings warmth, flavor, and family-style comfort to any holiday table—without the stress of cooking all day.

Plan Your Event with Russo’s

No matter the size or occasion, Russo’s New York Pizzeria is ready to help make your event deliciously memorable. Explore our catering menu and find a Russo’s location near you for personalized menu planning, timing assistance, and all the fresh Italian favorites your guests will rave about.

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Family Meal Night? How to Create the Perfect Russo’s Italian Feast at Home

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 20:05:00 GMT

When life gets busy, there’s nothing better than gathering the family around the table for a hearty Italian dinner. And the good news? You don’t have to spend hours in the kitchen to make it happen. With Russo’s New York Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen , planning a complete meal, from appetizers to dessert, is easier than ever. Whether you’re ordering for a cozy family dinner or a big get-together, Russo’s makes it simple to enjoy authentic Italian flavors at home .

Start with Shareable Appetizers

Set the tone with appetizers that bring everyone together. Russo’s menu features crowd-pleasers like Mozzarella Fritti , Garlic Knots , and Caprese Salad . These starters are perfect for sharing and keep hungry kids (and adults) satisfied while the main course is being served.

Choose a Signature Pizza

Pizza night is always a winner, and Russo’s hand-tossed pies are the star of any family meal. Go classic with a Margherita or bold with the Doppio Pepperoni . If you want something unique, the Brooklyn Square offers a thicker crust and plenty of cheese. Ordering a couple of different sizes and varieties ensures there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Add Pasta for Comfort and Variety

Nothing rounds out an Italian dinner like pasta. Russo’s offers comforting favorites like Spaghetti with Meatballs , creamy Fettuccine Alfredo , or savory Baked Ziti . Pasta dishes are hearty, shareable, and great for filling everyone up. Pair pasta with a fresh garden salad for balance, and you’ll have a meal that feels homemade without the hassle.

Don’t Forget Dessert

Every family feast deserves a sweet ending. From Tiramisu to Cannoli and New York Cheesecake , Russo’s desserts bring authentic Italian indulgence right to your home. Pro tip: order a few different desserts so everyone gets a taste of something different.

Reheating Tips for Leftovers

Ordering extra means you’ll have delicious leftovers the next day. To keep pizza crispy, reheat slices in the oven or an air fryer rather than the microwave. Pasta can be refreshed on the stovetop with a splash of water or extra sauce. Desserts like cheesecake and cannoli? They’re just as good straight from the fridge.

Make It Easy with Russo’s Catering Ideas

If you’re hosting a larger family gathering, Russo’s catering options make planning effortless. Large trays of pasta, party-size pizzas, and family-style salads are perfect for birthdays, reunions, or weekend dinners with extended family. It’s the easiest way to feed a crowd without giving up authentic flavor.

Bring Russo’s to Your Table Tonight

Family meal night doesn’t have to be stressful. With Russo’s, you can create a complete Italian feast that feels homemade, tastes authentic, and brings everyone together. So the next time you’re wondering how to plan Italian takeout , let Russo’s take care of the cooking—you just enjoy the time around the table.

�� Explore the full Russo’s menu and start planning your family meal at nypizzeria.com .

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Russo’s New York Pizzeria Italian Kitchen Lunch You Can't Refuse

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 14:26:00 GMT

Looking for the perfect midday escape? At Russo’s, we’ve crafted lunch specials that are quick, satisfying, and full of authentic Italian flavor . Whether you’re craving a giant New York–style slice, a crisp salad, or a hearty pasta, our weekday lunch deals (served Monday–Friday, 11 AM – 3 PM) are made to brighten your day.

2-Course Lunch Special – Just $15.95

Enjoy a true Italian-style lunch that you can’t refuse. Choose one starter and one entrée for a balanced, flavorful meal:

Starters include:

Bruschetta Pomodoro – Roma tomatoes, garlic, fresh basil, and olive oil.
Sicilian Arancini – Crispy fried rice ball with prosciutto, saffron, peas, mozzarella, and marinara.
Side Greek Salad – Crisp romaine, kalamata olives, feta, and balsamic vinaigrette.
Side Caesar Salad – Romaine, Romano cheese, croutons, and Caesar anchovy dressing.

Entrées include:

Gnocchi al Pesto – Potato gnocchi with pistachio pesto cream.
Baked Ziti – Penne baked with ricotta, mozzarella, marinara, and basil.
Spaghetti & Meatballs – Classic pasta with our house-made meatballs.
Fettuccine Alfredo – Creamy Romano sauce over fettuccine.
Spaghetti Carbonara – Prosciutto, red onions, Romano cream sauce.
Lasagna – Layers of pasta, braised beef, Italian cheeses, and Russo’s meat sauce.
Penne alla Vodka – Creamy tomato vodka sauce with prosciutto and onions.

Giant Slice Lunch Combos

Our slices? Yeah, they’re a big deal. Fresh, cheesy, and baked New York–style.

Giant Cheese Slice – Keep it classic for only $5.00, or customize with your favorite toppings.
Slice + Drink – A giant slice with a refreshing fountain drink for $8.95.
Slice + Salad + Drink – The ultimate lunch combo with a side house salad and drink for $12.95.

Garden-Fresh Salads

For something lighter but just as delicious, try our premium salads:

Tuscan Salad – Artichoke hearts, olives, cucumbers, roasted peppers, gorgonzola, and romaine.
Sicilian Tomato Salad – Tomatoes, kalamata olives, basil, and gorgonzola with olive oil dressing.
Prosciutto & Fig Salad – Sweet figs, prosciutto, mozzarella, and balsamic vinaigrette.
Chicken Milanese Salad – Breaded chicken, burrata mozzarella, arugula, tomatoes, lemon vinaigrette.

Why Lunch at Russo’s?

Because lunch shouldn’t be boring. From giant pizza slices topped your way to hearty Italian classics and crisp salads, our lunch specials are designed to fit your mood—whether quick and casual or full and indulgent.

Available weekdays, 11 AM – 3 PM. Stop by Russo’s New York Pizzeria Italian Kitchen , bring a friend, and make lunch the best part of your day!

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The Best Catering Special in Houston

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 13:44:00 GMT

When it comes to finding the best catering specials in Houston , one name stands out: Russo’s New York Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen in the Galleria. Whether you’re planning a corporate lunch, holiday party, or a family celebration, Russo’s makes catering easy, affordable, and absolutely delicious.

Why Russo’s Has the Best Catering in Houston

With countless catering options across Houston, Russo’s sets itself apart by offering authentic Italian flavors, generous portions, and unbeatable value . Every dish is crafted from recipes that capture the heart of Italy—perfect for impressing colleagues, clients, friends, and family alike. Plus, Russo’s offers free delivery with 24-hour notice , making event planning stress-free.

Top Houston Catering Specials

Here’s why Russo’s catering menu has earned a reputation as one of the best catering deals in Houston :

Giant Pizza Party – A showstopper for any event! This XL 28” Party Cheese Pizza feeds 10 people for just $49.95. Add your favorite toppings for only $5 more.
Pizza Package – Five 16-inch pizzas (cheese, pepperoni, or meat lovers) for only $17.95 each. Add a half tray of Greek salad for $44.95 to complete the spread
Sandwich Boxes – Perfect for corporate catering in Houston, these individually packed boxes come with your choice of Meatball Parmesan, Chicken Parmesan, or Muffaletta, plus a salad and soda, all for $15.95.
Pasta Boxes – Classic Italian comfort foods like Spaghetti & Meatballs, Fettuccini Alfredo, or Penne al Pesto with Chicken. Each comes with salad and soda for $19.95.
Arancini Platter – 16 Sicilian-style stuffed rice balls in assorted flavors for $69.95.
Cannoli Tray – A dozen handmade ricotta cannoli with chocolate chips and powdered sugar for $59.95.

Perfect for Corporate Catering in Houston

If you’re looking for corporate catering in Houston , Russo’s is the go-to choice. Their catering boxes make it easy to serve teams with individual meals, while their pizza and pasta packages are perfect for office parties, client meetings, and team celebrations. With menu options that satisfy everyone, Russo’s makes sure your event is remembered for all the right reasons.

Houston Catering Made Easy. Online Ordering Available.

Russo’s Galleria
5727 Westheimer, Houston, TX 77057
(832) 251-0220

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Russo’s New York Pizzeria Named a Houston Favorite by VisitHoustonTexas.com

cinchweb@gmail.com (Tory Lora) — Tue, 23 Sep 2025 14:52:01 GMT

According to VisitHoustonTexas.com , Russo’s New York Pizzeria is one of the best pizza spots in the city. Founded by Chef Anthony Russo in 1999, it has grown from a single neighborhood location into more than 50 worldwide.

Russo’s is known for authentic New York-style pizza with large, foldable slices and chewy crusts, along with a menu of Italian classics like pasta, calzones, and chicken parmesan. With several locations across Houston, including Memorial and Sugar Land, Russo’s remains a go-to destination for both quick slices and family meals.

Ready to try it for yourself? Visit nypizzeria.com to find your nearest Russo’s location and enjoy a true taste of New York in Houston.

Best Pizza Franchise – Finding the Right Pizza Franchise for Your Success

Thu, 26 Sep 2024 17:25:00 GMT

Choosing the ideal pizza franchise can be a daunting task. Many franchises charge royalty fees and require you to purchase supplies through their commissary, often with hidden fees embedded in the cost of goods. It’s essential to ask the right questions, like, “What is the typical food cost within their system?” If your cost of goods exceeds 30%, your profit margins will be slim once labor and overhead expenses are factored in. Even with successful franchises, the restaurant industry poses risks. However, partnering with a reputable brand reduces the guesswork. Ideally, food costs should not exceed 26%, with labor costs under 28% for a profitable operation. A reliable franchise partner can make all the difference. Always review Item 19 in the franchise disclosure document (FDD) to understand the upfront and ongoing costs before committing.

In this blog, we’ll cover six essential questions you should ask before investing in a restaurant franchise.

1. Is the Pizzeria Model Unique?

Success in the pizza industry comes down to one thing: quality. Does the franchise offer fresh, high-quality ingredients, or do they rely on pre-made dough and sauces? Today’s consumers seek value and premium products, and investing in a brand that offers anything less can be a mistake. Many fast-food pizza chains rely on heavy discounting, which erodes profitability. To stand out, look for a premium franchise that offers a unique dining experience, setting it apart from the competition.

A unique franchise experience can be more than just the food. It could include a distinctive theme, specialized menu options like gluten-free or halal, or exceptional customer service. At Russo’s New York Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen, our uniqueness lies in a made-from-scratch menu, a premium pizza bar, and various store sizes ranging from 1,200 sq. ft. delivery-only locations to 3,500 sq. ft. casual dining establishments. A memorable, unique experience builds customer loyalty and positions your franchise for success.

2. What’s on the Menu?

Americans love pizza—consuming an estimated 3 billion pizzas annually! However, within this massive market, customer preferences vary widely. Some prefer traditional pizza, while others seek artisanal options, from Neapolitan to deep dish or New York style, with vegan or gluten-free choices.

Choosing the right menu is crucial. Whether you stick to conventional offerings or explore niche products, it’s essential to consider local consumer trends. Additionally, offering more than just pizza, such as appetizers, salads, or desserts, can help your restaurant stand out and attract more customers.

At Russo’s, we specialize in handcrafted pizza, pasta, fresh salads, gluten-free options, and halal choices, alongside craft beer and Italian wines. Our commitment to fresh ingredients and family recipes dating back to 1942 ensures a memorable dining experience. “If it isn’t fresh, don’t serve it” is Russo’s guiding principle, driving our franchisees toward success.

3. How Are Other Franchisees Performing?

Before investing, it’s crucial to analyze the financial performance of existing franchises. Review Item 19 of the FDD to assess their profitability and time to break even. High profit margins and growth rates are positive signs.

Check online reviews and customer feedback to gauge the brand’s reputation. Consistent quality and service across multiple locations reflect a strong franchise system. Speak with current franchisees to gather insights on their experience and the level of support provided by the franchisor. A high retention rate and long-term franchisees are indicators of a healthy franchise relationship.

4. Does the Concept Offer Multiple Revenue Streams?

Diversified revenue streams, such as catering, delivery, takeout, and dine-in options, can significantly increase profitability. Franchises like Russo’s New York Pizzeria are designed to grow sales across various channels, helping you reach a broader customer base and enhance both dining and takeout experiences. Catering for events, corporate lunches, and family gatherings can provide a significant boost to your revenue.

5. What Are the Franchise Fees?

Franchise fees can vary widely between brands, typically ranging from $10,000 to $50,000. This initial investment generally includes support services for site selection, design, and marketing.

At Russo’s, our franchise fee is $35,000, with total investment costs ranging from $350,000 to $1.4 million. This includes pre-opening assistance, comprehensive training, and ongoing marketing and operational support to set you up for success.

6. How Much Support Does the Franchisor Provide?

The level of corporate support can make or break your franchise experience. At Russo’s New York Pizzeria, we pride ourselves on building strong partnerships with our franchisees. From the moment you join our team, we provide extensive ongoing support. Many of our franchisees have been with us for over 20 years, a testament to the strength of our system.

Our commitment to franchisee success includes an 8-week training program, menu innovations, and continuous marketing and operational support from our Corporate Support Center.

Making the Decision

Choosing the right restaurant franchise is no easy task, but by asking these six questions, you can make an informed decision. Take your time, do the research, and with the right answers, you’ll be in a strong position to invest in a franchise that sets you on the path to long-term success.

If you think Russo’s New York Pizzeria is the right fit for you, contact our franchise team at 832-477-7597. We’d be happy to answer any questions you have about owning a Russo’s franchise.

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What is the Benefit of owning Franchise?

Tue, 09 Jul 2024 02:56:00 GMT

What does it take to open a franchise restaurant?

Franchise Restaurant Costs

Advantage of restaurant franchise opportunities

Best Restaurant Franchises during inflation

Dunkin’ franchise
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success.www.russosfranchise. com

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Russo’s New York Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen Expanding with a New Franchise Location in Mesa, Arizona

Thu, 09 Nov 2023 21:28:00 GMT

Russo’s New York Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen recently finalized a franchise agreement with first-time franchise entrepreneurs, Kevin Barth and Phuong Thai. The deal entails the establishment of a new Russo’s franchise location in Mesa, Arizona, scheduled to open its doors in the Spring of 2024, as outlined in an official announcement.

Thai, in the press release, shared her perspective on the venture: “My husband and I are primarily based in Arizona, though we split our time between there and Houston. We’ve been loyal patrons of Russo’s for years, deeply appreciating their cuisine, exceptional service, and the entire Russo’s concept, including their innovative franchise model . What really drew us in was the prospect of owning a Russo’s restaurant, which allows us direct access to Anthony Russo himself. This personal connection, as opposed to dealing with a faceless corporation, was a major selling point for us.”

In the same press release, Chef Anthony Russo, the visionary behind Russo’s New York Pizzeria Franchise and the company’s CEO, emphasized the unique qualities that set their franchise concept apart: “We rely on time-honored Italian family recipes and the finest, freshest ingredients to craft a distinctive and delectable product. It is the superior quality of our cuisine that truly distinguishes our pizza franchise from the competition.”

Russo’s is enthusiastic about its expansion in Arizona with the collaboration of Kevin and Phuong, aiming to bring the finest New York-style pizza and authentic Italian dishes to the local communities.

Currently, Russo’s has cultivated a presence with a total of 54 corporate-owned, as well as franchised establishments across various states, including Texas, Arizona, Oklahoma, California, and Florida. Furthermore, the brand has ventured into the international market, with locations in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Doha, Qatar, and Manila, Philippines.

About Russo’s Restaurants

Founder Anthony Russo opened his first restaurant in 1999 in Houston, TX. There are currently 26 corporate and franchise locations throughout the Greater Houston Area, 9 locations nationally and 6 locations internationally. For more information about Russo’s franchise development opportunities, visit russosfranchise.com .

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A Slice of Authenticity: Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Italian Kitchen

Thu, 02 Nov 2023 14:05:00 GMT

If you’re a pizza lover, you’re in for a treat! Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Italian Kitchen is now open at its brand new location at 22811 Morton Ranch Road, near the Grand Parkway. Owned and operated by the dynamic husband-and-wife duo, Carmen Silva and Jaime Gama, this pizzeria promises to deliver an authentic Italian dining experience like no other.

When you step into Russo’s, you’ll find a menu that’s a treasure trove of Italian delights. From crisp salads to hearty soups, there’s something for everyone. But it’s the appetizers that steal the show, with favorites like the jumbo Liberty Wings and Racqel Bruschetta Trio, that are perfect for sharing.

For your main course, indulge in classic New York-style pizza that’s loaded with flavor, or explore a variety of authentic Italian pastas, calzones, and sandwiches. The choices are plentiful, and each dish is crafted with love and precision, staying true to the Russo family’s heritage.

Don’t forget to leave room for dessert! Russo’s dessert menu offers a sweet ending to your meal with layered cakes, velvety cheesecake, traditional Italian Cannoli, and the irresistible Tiramisu.

Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Italian Kitchen has a rich history. The brand was originally founded by Anthony Russo , the son of first-generation Italian immigrants. Growing up in a New Jersey home where the kitchen was the center of family life, Anthony developed a deep love for food and family traditions.

At just 18 years old, Anthony opened his first pizza restaurant, Russo’s Pizza. Seven years later, he introduced his first Russo’s New York Pizzeria in Houston , and the rest is history. Recognizing the potential to share his family’s culinary heritage with the world, Anthony expanded his business in 1999, creating a unique franchise model. This model allowed him to pass on the Russo family’s trade secrets and recipes, which are now being enjoyed in global markets.

Today, Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Italian Kitchen boasts over 50 locations across the United States and the Middle East, including Qatar, Dubai, Saudi Arabia, and the Philippines. With branches in states like Texas, California, Florida, and Oklahoma, Russo’s has become a household name for lovers of authentic Italian cuisine around the world.

The story doesn’t end here. The Russo brand has ambitious plans for the future, with more than 26 new pizzeria restaurants in development for 2023 and 2024, promising to bring the flavors of Italy to even more communities.

If you’re eager to experience the deliciousness of Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Italian Kitchen for yourself, visit our Morton Ranch location at 22811 Morton Ranch Road. For more information, check out our website at nypizzeria.com or call us at 281-396-4694.

In the heart of Texas, a slice of New York’s finest has found its home. Come and savor the authenticity at Russo’s, where every bite tells a story of tradition, passion, and the love for great food.

About Russo’s Restaurants
Founder Anthony Russo opened his first restaurant in 1999. There are 26 corporate and franchise locations throughout the Greater Houston Area, 9 locations nationally and 6 locations internationally. To learn more about Russo’s franchise development opportunities, visit russosfranchise.com .

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Openings and Closings: Lyric Market’s Big Plans, Dolce Niente’s Debut

Mon, 11 Sep 2023 14:11:00 GMT

Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Italian Kitchen , 22811 Morton Ranch, is now open in Katy. The pizza restaurant was founded by Anthony Russo at the very young age of 18. Seven years later, he opened the first Russo’s in downtown Houston in 1992. Read more at HoustonPress .

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The Benefits of Owning a Pizza Franchise

Sat, 19 Aug 2023 14:35:00 GMT

In the highly competitive world of entrepreneurship, owning a franchise can be an enticing opportunity. Among the many options available, pizza franchises have consistently proven to be a recipe for success. In this blog, we will explore the numerous benefits that come with owning a pizza franchise and why it can be a rewarding venture for aspiring business owners.

From well known national brands, to smaller emerging franchises, there is no shortage of options. While both come with certain benefits of ownership, we’re going to look at smaller franchises, specifically, Russo’s New York Pizzeria.

Why Buy A Franchise

To begin franchising, a brand must have a proven business model with strong and consistent sales over several years. The model needs to have been replicated with a system of processes and procedures that can be replicated anywhere.

This is what makes buying a franchise such an attractive option for many entrepreneurs. A lot of the hardest work has already been done for you. New owners are given everything they need to open their own successful franchise, including the business model, training, an established reputation, streamlined systems and operations, marketing and advertising support, and buying power.

Comprehensive Training and Support:

Investing in a Russo’s Pizzeria franchise gives you access to comprehensive training programs and ongoing support from the corporate office. Our structured training equips you with the necessary knowledge and skills to run a successful pizza business. From operations management to marketing strategies, you are able to rely on our expertise and guidance to navigate challenges and maximize your chances of success.

Streamlined Operations and Systems:

One of the key benefits of owning a pizza franchise is the availability of well-established operational systems. Russo’s Pizzeria has already refined our recipes, ingredients, and cooking techniques, ensuring consistency and quality across all franchise locations. Moreover, we provide access to efficient supply chains, standardized equipment, and technology platforms, making day-to-day operations more streamlined and easier to manage.

Marketing and Advertising Support:

Marketing is a crucial aspect of any business, and our franchise excels in this area. We invest in national and local marketing campaigns, which not only promotes the brand but also benefits individual franchisees in your own local market. By participating in these campaigns, you benefit from increased brand visibility, customer awareness, and foot traffic. Additionally, the collective marketing efforts of the franchise network can help you reach a wider audience and compete effectively against local competitors.

Your Choice of Restaurant Concept

We don’t believe in the one size fits all approach, which is why we offer 3 different restaurant concepts to choose from, including the simplest pizza delivery design, a casual dining design, and a full-service concept.

Russo’s History

Russo’s story begins in New Jersey, where founder Anthony Russo grew up. As the child of Italian immigrants, much of his time was spent in a kitchen, where he learned how to cook using recipes brought over from Italy. In the early 1980’s, Russo opened his first restaurant, eventually moving to Houston, where he spent nearly a decade perfecting his recipes and restaurant concept. Russo’s has now grown to 50 locations domestic and international.

Chef Anthony is committed to maintaining the freshest products and ensuring that every customer experiences the Russo Family promise, “if it isn’t fresh, don’t serve it”. Regardless of which Russo’s location or concept they’re visiting, customers receive the bona fide Russo’s experience.

Russo’s has earned its stellar reputation by always using the freshest ingredients and maintaining consistently high quality for every item on the menu, across every location. Having perfected his restaurant model and proving its success, Russo’s Pizzeria now has nationwide franchise opportunities.

As an emerging franchise brand, you’ll get a more personalized onboarding experience and have the opportunity to grow with us as one of our pioneer franchisees, get comprehensive support, and a proven business model. From streamlined operations to marketing support and cost savings, the benefits of owning a Russo’s Pizzeria franchise are numerous.
If you’d like more information about our franchise opportunities, visit Russosfranchise.com , or call us directly at (346) 857-0099.

About Russo’s Restaurants
Founder Anthony Russo opened his first restaurant in 1999. There are 26 corporate and franchise locations throughout the Greater Houston Area, 9 locations nationally and 6 locations internationally. To learn more about Russo’s franchise development opportunities, visit https://russosfranchise.com/

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Unveiling the Dough Masters: A Slice of Pizza Franchise Success

Fri, 18 Aug 2023 15:04:00 GMT

In a world filled with diverse cuisines, one dish has managed to capture the hearts and taste buds of people from all walks of life – pizza! Beyond being just a delectable treat, pizza has become a symbol of togetherness and a catalyst for creating unforgettable memories. Behind every mouthwatering slice, there lies a fascinating journey of entrepreneurship and dedication, embodied by the pizza franchise owners who have turned their passion for this iconic dish into a thriving business.

In this exclusive report, we take you on a flavorsome adventure into the lives of Russo’s New York Pizzeria Franchise owners who have not only conquered the competitive culinary landscape but also breathed life into their dreams. Each owner shares their unique experiences, challenges, and triumphs in the relentless pursuit of making the perfect pie.

We’ll hear firsthand accounts of how these visionary entrepreneurs have navigated through the ups and downs of the industry, leveraging innovation, community engagement, and an unwavering commitment to quality.

Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a pizza enthusiast, or simply curious about the extraordinary journey of these franchise owners, we promise to leave you hungry for more.

So grab a slice of your favorite pizza, get comfortable, and get ready to savor the experiences and insights from the Russo’s New York Pizzeria franchise world!

‘Hi, my name is Jamie . I’m new to Russo’s as a franchisee and we’re opening a new store this fall in Katy, Morton Ranch 99. And we’re really excited to start. We chose Katy because Katy it’s been for a while now a big development center in the suburbs of Houston. There’s a lot of people from Venezuela, a lot of people from Mexico and Andalus. And they’re used to good food. So we wanted to provide the food me and my family liked as a customer for them and be a service for the community.
It all started around five or six years ago. We were coming from Mexico. We found Russo’s as a customer. We were looking for some good pizza around. By word of mouth, we found Russo’s close to Galleria. We started ordering to go to Russo’s. My kids loved the pesto pasta. Since then, every time we flew into Houston, we would dedicate one pizza night through the week to get some Russo’s pasta and pizza. So that’s when our love to Russo’s started.

We always thought of Russo’s as a pizza place. Actually, it’s a whole Italian restaurant. So there’s a whole menu behind the pizzas that you should try. It’s really good. The pastas, the salads, even desserts are really good. So that was the first thing I noticed going through different facilities. And then another thing, Anthony always says that fresh ingredients are a priority here. I could look at it first hand and that is true.

I still love the Italian sausage pizza and I get to know that it’s made from scratch in the restaurants. It’s not a sausage that you go and buy somewhere. So that’s one of the reasons that I love it. It’s fresh, you taste it and it’s nothing you’ve tasted before because it’s not a commercial recipe. I was really glad that we chose Russo’s as our business.’

Russo’s New York Pizzeria Franchise definitely stands as a reputable and trustworthy pizza franchise that not only delivers mouthwatering pizzas to its customers but also empowers aspiring entrepreneurs to achieve their dreams of owning a successful pizza business. Through strong support systems, exceptional products, and a genuine sense of community, Russo’s New York Pizzeria Franchise continues to make its mark in the competitive world of pizza franchising, leaving a lasting impression on both its customers and franchise owners alike. With the overwhelming evidence of satisfied franchisees, it is evident that Russo’s New York Pizzeria Franchise is not just another pizza franchise; it is an opportunity for success and a pathway to fulfilling entrepreneurial journeys.
Join the Russo’s family today! Call Anthony Russo at (346) 857-0099 to discuss this unique pizza delivery franchise business opportunities.

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Frisco Threads clothing closet readies for 2023-24 school year

Thu, 03 Aug 2023 14:14:00 GMT

Frisco Threads’ organizations opened its closet again for the 2023-24 school year to help students in need.

Frisco Threads is operated by the Frisco ISD Council of Parent-Teacher Associations. The closet opened for the first time in August 2021. The first shopping day for the 2023-24 school year will start Aug. 10. Read More at Community Impact.

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Roundup: 5 pizza places now open, coming soon in Frisco

Thu, 03 Aug 2023 14:13:00 GMT

Looking for a new favorite pizza place? Keep an eye out for these recently opened, or soon-to-be opened, spots to grab the perfect slice. This list is not comprehensive. Read More at Community Impact.

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Russo’s New York Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen Announces Newest Franchisee Texas

Thu, 03 Aug 2023 14:12:00 GMT

NEW CANEY, Texas -(BUSINESS WIRE)- July 28, 2023 – Russo’s New York Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen proudly welcomes its newest franchisee, Jeff Lewis, who just opened a new location at 21572 Market Pl Dr. SPACE 100, New Caney, TX 77357. The addition of this pizza franchise marks an exciting milestone for the company in expanding its presence in the vibrant New Caney area. Read More at Franchising.com

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Russo’s Pizzeria Launches Innovative New Restaurant, Olio & Farina, in Tomball

Thu, 03 Aug 2023 14:11:00 GMT

TOMBALL, TX – Anthony Russo, Russo’s New York Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen Founder and CEO, has launched Olio & Farina, a pizza tasting concept restaurant in Spring/Tomball just south of The Woodlands. Read More at Hello Woodlands.

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Russo’s New York Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen expands in Texas

Thu, 03 Aug 2023 14:08:00 GMT

Russo’s New York Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen has opened a location in Caney, Texas, under new franchisee Jeff Lewis, according to a press release. Read more at Pizza Marketplace .

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Russo’s New York Pizzeria opens new location in Texas, US

Thu, 03 Aug 2023 14:05:00 GMT

The new outlet in New Caney will be operated by Jeff Lewis, a new franchisee of the restaurant brand. Read More at Verdict Food Service.

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Franchising & Licensing Asia 2023 Paves the Way for Aspiring Entrepreneurs & Global-Ready Brands

Fri, 23 Jun 2023 14:32:00 GMT

SINGAPORE, June 21, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – With more professionals seeking a career change, franchising and licensing continue to be viable options for aspiring entrepreneurs pursuing business ownership. Franchising and licensing offer …..read more at en.acnnewswire.com

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Chef Anthony Russo’s New York Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen Inks a Multi-Unit Agreement to Bring New York-style Pizza to the Philippines

Tue, 30 May 2023 16:14:00 GMT

HOUSTON – Russo’s New York Pizzeria announces its first location in Manila, Philippines. Chef Russo inked a multi-unit development agreement to open stores with the Le Frank Group. Read more on franchising.com

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New-York Style Pizza is Coming to the Philippines

Fri, 26 May 2023 14:06:00 GMT

Chef Anthony Russo’s New York Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen Inks a Multi-Unit Agreement to Bring New York-style Pizza to the Philippines

HOUSTON (May 2023) – Russo’s New York Pizzeria, the nation’s only chef-driven New York-style, Italian restaurant and pizzeria franchise concept , announces its first location in Manila, Philippines. Chef Russo inked a multi-unit development agreement to open stores with the Le Frank Group. Janica Lao with the Le Frank Group states, “We are looking forward to bringing a taste of little Italy to the Philippines market. We are excited about Russo’s New York Pizzeria’s fresh-made pizza and Italian cuisine.” Russo’s is a unique pizza franchise concept that offers fresh-made menu items made with premium, high-quality ingredients with no commissary.

The restaurant will serve its fresh-made, premium New York-style pizzas and pastas. The menu includes homemade Lasagna, Fettuccine Alfredo, Truffle Mushroom Pizza, Prosciutto & Fig Pizza, fresh soups, and made-in-house burrata cheese. The patrons are also offered gluten-free and vegan options.

Russo’s recently opened new locations in Doha, Qatar and Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Additionally, stores in Frisco, TX; Morton Ranch (Katy), TX; Magnolia, TX; and Richmond, TX are currently under construction. Russo’s is expanding rapidly into domestic and international markets .

Russo’s continues to bring chef-driven concepts to new areas as the brand offers franchise opportunities in global markets. Stores are custom-built and offer pizza delivery and casual dining concepts. Store size will range from 1,300 sq. ft. to 3,000 sq. ft. Investments range $295,000 to $950,000.

About Russo’s Restaurants

Founder Anthony Russo opened his first restaurant in 1999. There are 26 corporate and franchise locations throughout the Greater Houston Area, 9 locations nationally and 6 locations internationally. To learn more about Russo’s franchise development opportunities, visit https://russosfranchise.com/ .

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Houston Happens – Celebrating International Women’s Day, Crime Tip Tuesday, National Meatball Day and more

Tue, 16 May 2023 13:43:00 GMT

HOUSTON (KIAH) — It’s International Women’s Day and Houston Happens host, Maggie Flecknoe is honoring women in our lives and community. Read more on CW39 Houston

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Russo’s New York Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen inks 5-unit deal in Qatar

Fri, 12 May 2023 11:52:00 GMT

Texas-based Russo’s New York Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen has signed a five-unit franchise deal in Qatar, fulfilling a key geographic goal in the franchisor’s international expansion strategy, according to a press release. Read more on pizzamarketplace.com

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Russo’s New York Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen opens new outlet in Saudi Arabia

Fri, 12 May 2023 11:51:00 GMT

US-based Russo’s New York Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen has opened its fourth restaurant in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Read more on verdictfoodservice.com

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Russo’s New York Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen expands Saudi Arabia footprint

Fri, 12 May 2023 11:42:00 GMT

Russo’s New York Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen has opened its fourth location in Saudi Arabia in Riyadh at the Park Avenue Mall, according to a press release. Read more on pizzamarketplace

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That’s Amoré: The 10 Hottest Italian Restaurant Chains in 2023

Thu, 11 May 2023 12:47:00 GMT

Russo’s New York Pizzeria has become a leader in the saturated New York-style pizza category. The concept was founded in 1994 by chef Anthony Russo, who is the son of Italian immigrants. Read More on 1851 Franchise

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Chef-Inspired U.S. Brand to Exhibit at Gulfood Show: Russo’s New York Pizzeria Set on Franchise Middle East Expansion

Thu, 11 May 2023 11:37:00 GMT

HOUSTON, Feb. 3, 2023

Classic New York Pizzeria and Upscale Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen Pizza Franchise Concepts Target UAE, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Turkey, Africa and Egypt for Expansion… Read More on Bloomberg

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Small Franchise Systems Can Go International Too

Wed, 10 May 2023 20:03:00 GMT

May 19, 2018 — Forbes / Franchises by Ed Teixeira

Just because a franchisor operates a small or emerging franchise network, it shouldn’t exclude them from exporting their franchise brand to other countries, providing they meet certain basic requirements. In fact, there are large franchisors that based upon their performance and product are unqualified for international expansion. In some cases, a small franchise system may find the market in the U.S. so competitive, it might be in their interest to consider expanding into foreign markets. There are certain attributes that qualify a franchisor for international expansion but size alone shouldn’t be the determining factor.

Russo’s Restaurant Franchise

To gain some perspective on this subject, I spoke with Chef Anthony Russo, CEO of Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Russo’s Coal Fired Italian Kitchen. Based in Houston, Texas Russo’s began franchising in 1998 and operates 30 franchise locations in Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Tennessee, Florida and Hawaii.

I asked CEO Anthony Russo, how he came to take his franchise overseas. He explained that true New York style pizza wasn’t available in many U.S. markets and foreign countries. He told me how the two restaurant concepts have built their reputations on being undeniably authentic in every way. While still franchising in the United States, Anthony started his foray in other countries by engaging the services of a broker. After one year, without success from the broker, he decided to personally exhibit at a franchise show in the Middle East, where he presented his pizza. He received a great response and currently has seven franchise units in Dubai with two more under construction. He also signed a development agreement for 10 locations in Saudi Arabia. After his success in the Middle East, he decided to target Western Europe where he had already exhibited in France and Spain. Unlike other franchisors, he uses a development agreement franchise model in each country rather than a Master Franchise agreement. He feels this approach is less costly for the franchisee and he doesn’t risk giving up franchise rights to an entire country. As Anthony works on international expansion, he continues to franchise in the U.S.

I asked Anthony Russo what he considers the most important requirements for a smaller franchise to go International. His response: “Minimum 20 locations, a good system, strong corporate staff and sufficient working capital.”

Regardless of size, the following are important qualifying factors for international expansion:

Suitable financial resources for an international project.
The franchise has a successful operation in the U.S.
Strong potential for expansion in other countries.
Franchisor staff is available and capable of training, servicing and supporting a franchisee in another country.
Franchisor leadership is engaged and committed to international expansion.
The franchisor can provide the operational and marketing knowhow
Operations and marketing manuals are current and up to date and marketing materials that can be adapted and translated for use in other countries.
The franchisor acquires or has familiarity with target countries.
When a franchisor considers taking their franchise concept to other countries, an important factor to consider is whether their franchise is qualified to expand to other countries. One factor, that should not disqualify a franchisor, is its’ size. This doesn’t mean that any franchisor regardless of system size is qualified to go overseas, but rather that smaller franchisors shouldn’t rule out going international simply because of their size.

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The Importance of Location for Your Pizza Franchise

Fri, 28 Apr 2023 15:04:00 GMT

Business owners have to select the right location for their establishment if they wish to be successful. There’s no such thing as an effective brick-and-mortar (physical business site) that ignores the timeless adage – “location, location, location.” Even in the pizzeria business, perhaps especially in this industry, you must pay attention to where you put your restaurant.

If you’re considering a career as a pizzeria franchisee, you’ll want to know the best strategies for selecting an optimal place of business. This article offers suggestions for how to do that.

Investigate the Competition

Every prudent business professional knows the value of surveying the competition. It’s not espionage or cheating, either. This is where you figure out where other pizza restaurants have had success and see if there’s room nearby. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for potential “complementary businesses” in your community such as movie theaters, ice cream shops, and other things that go well with pizza. Those locations may be where you decide to position a new pizzeria.

Find a Place with Easy Access

You don’t want to rent or buy any commercial real estate that’s hard to access with only one road or a notoriously difficult parking lot. Often, the best pizzeria locations are near highway exits, downtown areas, and around other necessities. It also doesn’t hurt to set up shop along public transit routes or places with plenty of pedestrian traffic. Nothing’s better than having access to folks who see your restaurant and casually walk inside for a quick slice of pizza or calzone.

Make the Most of Your Establishment with Attractive Amenities & Decor

This is one area where we offer plenty of support when you partner with Russo’s New York Pizzeria. That’s because we’ve done this a long time, having enjoyed lots of success with three effective restaurant concepts . It goes without saying that you should maintain a clean and beautiful ambiance both inside and outside your restaurant. One way that Russo’s excels at this is by offering patrons a one-of-a-kind dining experience with special novelties. Our best example is when we give customers the chance to watch us make pizza with coal-fired ovens in our larger full-service restaurants. There are many other terrific ways to attract patrons with features and aesthetics as well.

Let this serve as an introduction to what you can do to cultivate the most lucrative pizzeria location. There are many more strategies, which we’d be more than happy to help you explore when you become one of our many franchise owners.

Russo’s New York Pizzeria operates a successful chain of authentic Italian restaurants both in the United States and internationally . We’re eager to expand and invite enthusiastic entrepreneurs to share our success. If you’d like to learn more about franchise opportunities, please contact us anytime at (832) 477-7597 or feel free to fill out the form below.

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Reasons to Relinquish Your Fear & Start a Pizzeria Franchise

Mon, 17 Apr 2023 14:50:00 GMT

Never let fear deter you from chasing your dreams if you know you should do something and possess the wherewithal to accomplish it. This is doubly important for entrepreneurs interested in franchise ownership.

Many terrific opportunities go to waste because of fear of the unknown or some related hangup. In this post, we’ll remind you of the many substantial reasons to overcome all the anxiety, and pull the trigger by becoming a pizza franchise owner.

It’s Your Dream and There’s No (Real) Reason Not to

While it’s essential to take your time creating a business partnership, many prospective business owners allow their ambitions to sink by over-analyzing everything. You can do much worse trying to build your own business from scratch through trial-and-error. Instead, with a system like ours, you have a much greater shot of running a profitable store , in way less time. We can confidently recommend this approach over high-turnover startups or spending your entire career as someone else’s employee.

Are You a Millennial? Your Time Has Arrived!

Millennials, the folks within the 23-to-41-year-old cohort, are in the prime of their life as business professionals. Pizzeria ownership is a wonderful way to achieve independence, especially for adults who have been out of college for a while, and have built substantial work experience. Now that you know the lay of the land in the business world, it’s time to stake out a greater position as a legitimate business owner. If nothing else, this is the ultimate test of whether you can go beyond the boundaries of a “side hustle” and take ownership of something.

International Opportunities are Abundant as Well!

Russo’s New York Pizzeria recognizes a wealth of potential for authentic Italian food, with an emphasis on fast consumer responsiveness, even in the international market. So, whether you live overseas and want to bring our proven model to your location, or you’d like to branch out into other countries, anything’s possible right now. What holds people back? Unfortunately, fear of the unknown is often the greatest hindrance. If that’s the case, we invite you to explore our proven recipe for success . It demonstrates how our business model works just as well in Houston as it would in France, Mexico, or Egypt.

So, if you can take that bold move forward and disregard all that servile fear, there’s a world of potential in pizzeria franchising.

It’s time to begin and finally jump-start your business ambitions with Russo’s New York Pizzeria . By partnering with us, you’ll receive all the essential resources for running a pizza restaurant one of three ways (full restaurant, fast casual, or delivery oriented). You can learn more by calling (832) 477-7597 .

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Reasons to Invest in a Pizza Business

Wed, 22 Mar 2023 21:30:00 GMT

Are you still a little on the fence over whether to start a franchise business?

Often, the trickiest part involves discerning which industry to enter as a prospective business owner. Some parts of the economy are growing while others are stagnating or much more volatile. Here, we’ll make the case for why owning a restaurant, specifically in the pizza business, could be the best career move you’ve ever made.

Pizza is Always Popular

The question is not whether people will enjoy pizza in your town. Everybody likes pizza. What sets you apart from competitors has more to do with initiative, providing novel menu items, adaptable service (like takeout ordering), and a decent amount of capital to get started. Again, it’s easy to find demand for pizza in America since research shows that 40% of Americans claim to eat it at least once a week.

The Franchise Approach is Far Less Risky

Perhaps you’ve thought of making the bold leap into the pizza industry as a sole proprietor. While this isn’t impossible, you’ll find that the vast majority of restaurants operate as franchise systems for a reason. It’s way harder to develop a working restaurant operation on your own, inventing everything from scratch. Instead, it’s way more prudent to cooperate with a franchisor who can help you avoid trial-and-error business pitfalls, and often drive you toward profitability faster. This is also the more effective way to avoid turnover AND own multiple locations like Russo’s franchisee, Guillermo Medellin , who operates four pizzerias with us.

Just Beware: Some Pizza Companies are Better Than Others

Of course, if it was “easy,” everybody would do it. Sometimes, folks think running a pizzeria is simple, and fail spectacularly because they cannot adapt to consumer preferences or market shifts.

The bottom line is that you MUST only work with a viable pizza business. While there are a few different options, you should always evaluate a pizza franchisor for what it brings to the table. Do they offer legitimate on-board training for new franchisees? Has their brand succeeded in various communities? Will they supply you with reliable equipment like brick ovens, POS equipment, and so forth? Whatever you do, never plunge into a franchise agreement without doing your homework and evaluating your potential franchisor.

You can count on Russo’s New York Pizzeria to fulfill all your expectations as a viable pizza business franchisor. We have a proven record of success, based on a simple and learnable strategy, with multiple restaurant concepts , and offer all our franchisees everything they need to be successful. Plus, there’s never been a better time to enter the booming pizza industry.

Call us anytime at (832) 477-7597 to learn more about Russo’s lucrative franchise opportunities.

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Identifying the Best Fast-Casual Pizza Franchise Option in 2023

Wed, 08 Mar 2023 18:59:00 GMT

If you’re familiar with Russo’s New York Pizzeria , and our approach to business franchising, then you know we’re big proponents of starting a franchise in this growing industry. It’s a real winner right now, even amid economic uncertainty.

During 2021, while the pandemic restrictions were still severe, the pizza industry yielded over $45 billion in sales. There’s plenty of room for newcomers, but not all pizza businesses are created equal, which means you have to evaluate your options.

How do you identify the best fast-casual pizza franchise option in 2023?

Look for Growth Potential

If a company isn’t growing, it’s inevitably dying. That’s conventional wisdom across all industries, and it’s even more important in food service where many businesses fail within their first year of existence. For our part, Russo’s New York Pizzeria outpaces the revenue of other fast-casual pizza companies by more than $1 million a year . That puts us in the upper quartile of the industry, but we’re after more. The strongest companies, like ours, are the ones that replicate their business model far and wide, either in the domestic or international market space. That type of expansion is the key to growth, nowadays, and a particular emphasis of ours.

Find Franchises with Outstanding Training & Development

The whole point of entering a franchise agreement is to leverage an existing system, not to invent your own concepts. If you’re innovative enough to do things on your own, then more power to you. However, it’s often faster, and more fail-proof, to find a franchisor who already has a winning strategy, learn from them, and apply it. Granted, this only works if the company offers extensive training and continuous support. So, if you’re considering investing in a franchise business, you should scrutinize potential franchisors on this. Always make sure that they’ll show you the ropes, supply all the restaurant equipment, help you with marketing, and so forth. You can learn more about how we do it by reading our section on franchise support .

Ready to Sign an Agreement? Review All Documentation with an Attorney

Above all else, always take your time with the selection process. Once you reach the pivotal point, where you think you’ve found a match, comb through all the details carefully before signing anything. It’s well worth your time to review the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) and then the Franchise Agreement with an attorney. That’s the best way to avoid surprises or to misunderstand the “fine print” of a business contract.

These are the basics of identifying a reputable pizza franchise if you’re serious about running your own profitable enterprise.

Russo’s New York Pizzeria offers the best opportunity to operate a successful restaurant franchise, and we have multiple ways to do so. Whether you wish to run a full-scale Italian restaurant or something smaller like a fast-casual service, we can help you succeed. Call (832) 477-7597 to learn more about franchising with us or fill out the form below.

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Become Your Own Boss with Russo’s Franchises

Fri, 24 Feb 2023 15:26:00 GMT

Who is the boss at your current workplace? Chances are, even if you’re a supervisor or manager, it isn’t really you, because you have little real authority. That’s just the reality of signing an employment contract, which always means somebody else is in charge.

However, by owning a franchise business, you are a legitimate owner with plenty of say-so on how things operate. While franchise businesses, including ours, require you to follow a specific system, you ultimately call the day-to-day shots. Plus, you’re the one who makes most of the profits from your store.

What are some other advantages to becoming your own boss by owning a Russo’s New York Pizzeria franchise?

Reasons to Become a Pizzeria Boss with Russo’s

Franchising – Better Work/Life Flexibility

You can expect owning a pizzeria to be a lot of work since everything worth doing requires serious effort. Nevertheless, once you get your business running on all four cylinders, you’ll be able to enjoy a much better work/life balance. Many skilled and well-compensated employees lament the fact that they can’t get away from their jobs even long enough to take a quick vacation. We believe that if you’re going to be that involved in your work, you should at least own what you’re doing. At any rate, franchise ownership rewards hard-working folks with the opportunity to set their own schedule for getting work done.

Clearer Responsibilities and Obligations in Franchising

Despite all the standard operating procedures and highly specified job descriptions in traditional business, things never seem clear or straightforward to most employees. Wouldn’t it be nice to have a clear mission for how to do everything without sacrificing every ounce of professional autonomy? Well, once again, franchising offers a splendid middle ground. A reliable franchisor, like Russo’s, will show you the ropes, train you on one of our three successful restaurant concepts , and provide plenty of resources like pizza ovens and equipment. This contrasts with many other businesses that won’t offer much career guidance or may even expect you to become a mind reader to determine how to do your job.

Does this sound like a golden opportunity to escape the clutches of conventional employment and gain more control over what you do professionally?

If so, then you may make a great franchise partner with Russo’s New York Pizzeria , a growing franchise business with both domestic and international ambitions. Franchise ownership lets you experience the fantastic middle ground between either ordinary employment or struggling with a sole-proprietor business. Call us anytime at (832) 477-7597 to explore some of our fantastic ways to own a pizza restaurant.

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Why is New York-Style Pizza the Best?

Mon, 20 Feb 2023 13:50:00 GMT

If you’re looking for a truly classic pizza experience, nothing beats the flavors of New York-style pizza . This iconic style is known for its large, foldable slices and distinctive thin crust. Whether you’re an experienced pizza aficionado or just getting started, here’s what you need to know about New York-style pizza.

At its core, New York-style pizza is defined by its classic round crust, usually made with bread flour, semolina, and/or cornmeal. This dough is stretched thin and hand-tossed to create the signature, thin crust. New York-style pizza also features a generous layer of tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese, with other toppings like pepperoni, mushrooms, onions, peppers, and olives often added.

What sets New York-style pizza apart from other styles of pizza isn’t just the ingredients and technique, but also how it’s cooked. New York-style pizza is always cooked in a brick oven that’s been preheated to temperatures of up to 700 degrees Fahrenheit. This imparts a unique char to the crust and helps to give the pizza its unique flavor, texture, and aroma.

It doesn’t take much to make a good New York-style pizza — just quality ingredients, some serious heat, and a bit of know-how. To make your own New York-style pizza, start by making the dough. You can find lots of great recipes online. Once the dough is ready, stretch it out thin and place it in the pizza pan. Top with tomato sauce, cheese, and any other toppings you like. Put the finished pizza in a preheated brick oven and bake at the higher temperature until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling. Once done, slice it up into big, thin slices and enjoy!

Whether you’ve had it dozens of times or it’s your first bite, there’s no denying the timeless classic flavors of New York-style pizza. Follow these steps and you’ll be well on your way to creating a pizza masterpiece in no time.

Chef Anthony Russo Perfects New York-Style Pizza

The son of first-generation Italian immigrants, Chef Anthony Russo grew up in a New Jersey home where the kitchen was the center of family life. There was always the opportunity to cook and bake in the Russo home, and many of the ingredients came from the family garden. Just like the one Grandpa and Nona Russo had back in Avellino, Italy.

These Italian experiences stuck with young Anthony long after his family moved to Galveston, Texas, in 1978. His father opened Russo’s Italian Restaurant, which quickly became a local favorite. Just like that, Anthony found a second home in the restaurant kitchen. By the age of 12, he was learning family recipes from relatives who flew in from Naples and Sicily each summer. Making pizza and squachatta (calzones) became a passion.

Using the family recipe for New York-style, hand-tossed pizza dough, the sauce made from fresh-crushed California tomatoes, and imported Italian cheese blends, Anthony became the sole owner and chef of his first restaurant Russo’s Pizza in the early 80’s. “It was 800 square feet. I had a pizza oven, a dough mixer and two tables. That’s it. I could only sit eight people.” A few years later, he created Anthony’s Pizzeria, located in Clear Lake, Texas, and soon moved to Houston.

For almost a decade, Anthony refined his menu using classic Italian family recipes and zeroed in on the perfect New York-style pizza. In 1992, Russo’s New York Pizzeria opened in downtown Houston, Texas and proved to be a success.

For Franchise Information, please visit our website: https://russosfranchise.com/

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There’s a Russo’s Franchise Concept Built for Everyone

Tue, 14 Feb 2023 16:51:00 GMT

Some critics of franchise businesses complain about how franchisees don’t always have much say-so over how to design their business. However, at Russo’s New York Style Pizzeria, this is far from the truth.

Did you know we offer three different design concepts for those who want to start a franchise pizzeria with us? We’d like to explain what we mean by that and how you can develop an authentic Italian-style pizzeria suitable for your career ambitions and community needs.

Three Franchise Options: Delivery-Focus, Casual Dining, and Full-Service

Delivery/Takeout Oriented Pizzerias

This is the smallest franchise version we offer, with the lowest investment costs, lowest continuous overhead, and plenty of opportunity for consistent cash flow. While there’s still a modest indoor/outdoor dining component, the primary emphasis involves delivery and takeout service, which is immensely lucrative these days. Our reliable restaurant-specific POS ordering systems allow us to satisfy demand as global diners continue to prefer convenient ways to take their meals home with them without long waits.

This is also a terrific model if you prefer fewer employees to manage, a smaller facility (no more than 1,800 square feet), and lower rents.

Casual Dining Pizzerias

At the “fast casual” level, the restaurants are significantly larger (2,000 to 2,500 square feet), and you would offer a broader range of items. These are the stores you’d find in shopping centers or malls, allowing you to capitalize on all the surrounding foot traffic. Even at this level, you still don’t require nearly as much staff as a full-service restaurant.

Coal-Fired Pizza & Italian Kitchen (Full Service)

Then, if you’re ready to establish a larger-scale pizzeria, then this franchise design has all the amenities of a premium sit-down Italian restaurant. These are large (up to 3,900 square feet), free-standing restaurants, which include coal-fired pizza ovens as part of an optimal dining experience. Although this requires a higher startup investment than the other two options, it’s the best way to provide the all-around service you’d expect from an exquisite Italian restaurant. Here, you have all the fine dining services like wine bars, craft beer, and we even allow patrons to observe how we make pizza for them.

Do you see a pizzeria franchise system that fits your goals and dreams as a business owner? If so, then we can’t wait to explore one or more possibilities with you. We believe that our franchise pizzeria system can work in virtually any location around the world. It’s just a matter of having a motivated entrepreneur to initiate this outstanding investment.

You can learn all about pizza, authentic Italian cuisine, and running a successful business when you partner with Russo’s New York Style Pizzeria . Find out more about us anytime by calling (832) 477-7597 or filling out the form below.

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Chef-Inspired U.S. Brand to Exhibit at Gulfood Show: Russo’s New York Pizzeria Set on Franchise Middle East Expansion

Tue, 07 Feb 2023 13:32:00 GMT

Award-winning, Texas-based upscale casual brand Russo’s New York Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen is set on Franchise Middle East Expansion. Read more on PR Newswire .

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5 Leading Industry Trends in the Pizzeria Business

Tue, 31 Jan 2023 21:36:00 GMT

We know that smart franchisees and entrepreneurs want to remain current on what’s happening across the pizza industry. If you take your eye off market changes and consumer trends, then you risk falling behind the power curve. That’s why we want to fill you in on what’s popular among pizza enthusiasts right now.

Check out these five data-backed trends you cannot afford to ignore as a pizzeria owner.

Streamlined, User-Friendly Menus

Although it’s important for us to offer a wide variety of pizza and pasta selections, we don’t want to overdo it. The numbers show folks prefer streamlined, comprehensible menus rather than too much complexity. That’s why 60% of restaurants have reverted to simpler menus after the pandemic .

Restaurant Patrons Seek Better Than What They Can Make

One of the main perks of going out to eat is enjoying a quality meal you can’t replicate in your kitchen. Now, we know that empirically since survey research suggests 78% of adult diners visit a restaurant for something they can’t make at home .

Fish Isn’t Popular

While many pizza customers are after novel toppings, the data shows us that fish is not one of them. Perhaps not surprisingly, 61% of pizza fans rate anchovies as their least favorite topping .

Both Comfort Food & Healthy Dining Are Lucrative

Pizza can be both a treat or a healthy meal, depending on how you make it. The good news is that both approaches (comfort food and healthy food) are a big hit these days. That’s why we continue to offer everything from meat lovers and giant slices to gluten-free or vegetarian pizza.

Patrons Like Novel Pizza Shapes

Another novel item that’s gaining popularity is the “pizza cone.” It involves rolling the crust into a cone shape before applying toppings. This is one of many ways pizzerias are experimenting with new shapes and creations. It’s also a reason Russo’s serves popular handheld items like sandwiches and calzones.

Have you noticed any of these pizza trends in your community?

At any rate, Russo’s New York Pizzeria will continue to monitor and adapt to the latest consumer demands in the pizza business . If you’re not already part of the Russo’s business family, we invite you to consider a career as a franchise owner. You’re welcome to contact us anytime to learn all about becoming a successful pizzeria entrepreneur by calling (832) 477-7597 .

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Pizzeria Owners’ New Year’s Resolutions

Fri, 13 Jan 2023 16:26:00 GMT

Are you one of our franchise pizzeria owners or aspiring to become one?

Perhaps you want to make an owner-related New Year’s resolution. It could be the kind that involves doing something even more spectacular with your franchise business in 2023. There are plenty of ways to do so, but here are a few suggestions from your friends at Russo’s New York Pizzeria .

Make it a Mission to Eliminate Food Waste in 2023

This may seem like an interesting way to approach resolutions, but the problem of wasted food is on peoples’ minds a lot these days. With rising costs of ingredients, we can no longer afford to discard food so casually. Therefore, it’s so important to track and manage your pizzeria’s ingredients and other inventory. Don’t forget that this is a great opportunity to promote all of Russo’s customizable pizza options, which give customers a better chance to select appropriate meal portions. This contributes to much less waste.

Build Customer Loyalty

Every successful restaurant business has a solid volume of loyal, die-hard patrons. They’re the ones who will visit your store repeatedly. Plus, they’re most likely to pass the word along to their family and friends about your authentic Italian food. Therefore, it makes sense to develop as many of these loyal followers as possible. There are several ways to do this with discounts, giveaways, and other promotions. Since Russo’s utilizes a lucrative POS system for ordering and processing meals, you can leverage it to create a customer rewards system. It’s well known in the restaurant business that offering something “on the house” periodically will encourage folks to return more often.

Recommit to the Russo’s Recipe for Success

Whether you’re a new franchisee or a pizzeria veteran, it doesn’t hurt to review the basics of how Russo’s operates. Remember that we have a proven recipe for success , which all but guarantees significant business results, provided you follow it carefully. This includes many rudimentary practices like serving fresh-ingredient pizzas and pastas, but also involves responding to changing consumer demands, and providing the best ordering/takeout/catering services.

That’s a short list of some of our favorite resolution ideas. They aren’t too difficult, so you might incorporate all of them into your game plan for 2023.

If you’re ready to start a new pizza franchise in your community, then it’s time to partner with Russo’s New York Pizzeria . We’re more than happy to explore a franchise agreement with any able-minded entrepreneur. Contact us anytime at (832) 477-7597 to learn more about franchising with us.

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Interview: Anthony Russo, founder, Russo’s New York Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen

Tue, 10 Jan 2023 14:35:00 GMT

Russo’s New York Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen is expanding internationally with deals in Qatar and London; we spoke to the founder, Anthony Russo, at the International Franchise Show in London. Pizza franchise brands remain universally popular with their familiar and tasty offering and Russo’s New York Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen focuses on quality. Customers will always come back for a tasty pizza, and founder Anthony Russo believes he has spotted a gap in the market with his New York-style pizzas.

Russo believes he can bring his quality pizza franchise brand to the discerning palates of Europe. By adapting his menus to local tastes, creating everything fresh in-store but building on his core of New York-style pizzas, Russo believes he can popularize the brand and style of pizza across the continent.

We caught up with Anthony at the International Franchise Show in London on April 8 at his booth to speak about his brand and where he wants to take it.

RP: With authentic Italian pizzas and cuisine, how do you make sure that every franchise location is able to maintain the quality that your customers expect?

AR: Our concept is New York-style pizza. So, it’s an American Italian style pizza, which is very unique and different, which you don’t get here in Europe. The Italian pizzas are different to New York-style pizza, it’s more Neapolitan style whereas New York is thinner, it’s crispier and it travels well.

So, once you taste New York-style pizza, you’ll notice the huge difference with Italian-style pizza. The toppings are similar. We use prosciutto, burrata cheese, fresh mozzarella and we have all the gourmet Italian toppings.

I grew up eating Neapolitan pizza and New York-style pizza, so I was in the kitchen and in my family restaurant for many years. But I wanted to start a New York concept because there’s a niche for it, you can’t get it in a lot of places.

RP: Have you ever had to make significant changes to your menus or processes because you found that it wasn’t scalable when you franchised your concept?

AR: Not really.

We’ll make things fresh from scratch, in-house. We don’t want to take shortcuts. There’s a lot of chains out there and they want to expand rapidly, and they don’t want to adapt their pre-made pizza sauce, pre-made dough, or have a commissary that is already pre-made in advance, whereas I’ve always believed that if it isn’t fresh, don’t serve it.

Customers can tell the difference between a Russo’s pizza versus another known pizza chain, and it’s just okay, right? But I want to get that mom-and-pop experience. Making pizza dough is easy. You have to use the right kind of flour, the right kind of olive oil to make pizza dough, which is time-consuming, but it pays off because your food cost lowers. My cost of goods is average at 90 per cent of my food cost. With other chains food costs are about 28 to 30 per cent because they buy stuff already made with a third party.

RP: When expanding internationally, do you tread a line between authenticity and adapting to local tastes, or is it one or the other?

AR: I do both. We customize our menu for each market. We want to ask them what local flavors they want, but at the same time, we want to serve truly authentic New York-style pizza. That’s not going to change, but we’ll add some gourmet toppings or some unique toppings locally.

Salads, for example, we do some risotto on some menus, and for pizza toppings we do shrimp. We also have lamb and other unique toppings that work for the Middle East market. So, we do things like that and we have to adapt to some of the local ingredients.

But our core is always New York-style pizza.

RP: Are there any exciting markets around the world that you are making a special effort to get into?

AR: For sure. Like I said, there’s not too many New York-style pizza brands expanding globally. I think that’s kind of unique and now’s the time to do it to expand into new markets.

We have restaurants in Dubai, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar, and people who want quality pizza. I’m excited about it because there’s not many chains that do what we do in our kitchen and because of the European market, especially because they know food. So, they would appreciate our type of pizza in Europe, which I think is my next development target market.

RP: What are some of the biggest mistakes that pizza franchisors are making today when entering the market?

AR: Research. I think if you don’t adapt locally to consumers, the local markets may not support your business. I think you can do some research with adding local flavours to the menu, though some franchise brands are very strict and aren’t flexible to adapt.

I think that’s one of the biggest mistakes. That could be on beverages, desserts and even some meal options. But you always want to adapt and be flexible with menu items. Some brands have a strength, they just don’t want to not change the menu at all and that did was hurt the brand and make success difficult.

Each market is different. I think they do that because they want to keep their standard. That’s why some brands fail in international markets, because they’re not adaptable.

If you missed the International Franchise Show in London last week, here is our roundup of the day .

Interviewed by Raghav Patel for Global Franchise

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Look Out, Doha, Qatar – Russo’s is Coming!

Wed, 04 Jan 2023 20:23:00 GMT

Russo’s New York Pizzeria is opening its first pizza franchise location in Qatar at the Printemps Doha. It is a move that is thrilling fans literally the world over who have grown to love the Russo’s brand since the opening of the first UAE location in 2013 and also in Saudi Arabia.

Notable Doha Oasis Group Restaurant and Mall Developer and operator Doha Hospitality Group is opening the pizzeria restaurant on the second floor next to Vox VIP Cinema. The Printemps Mall proudly serves residents, businesses, and thousands of hungry shoppers.

“Customers entering a Russo’s New York Pizzeria anywhere in the world know they are getting a true ‘slice’ of New York,” said Waruna Gunasekara , director of Doha Hospitality. “The ingredients are fresh in everything from the calzones to the pasta. Guests expect something special from these traditional Italian dishes, and we aim to deliver.”

Russo’s has established an ever-growing presence in the UAE, with locations open in Dubai and Sahara Centre in Nakheel Mall in Palm Jumeirah. The newest Qatar location is set to open in early February 2023. For pizza franchise details for international franchise opportunities , contact anthony@nypizzeria.com .

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Halal Meat Pizza Toppings: Healthier than Conventional Meat?

Wed, 04 Jan 2023 20:04:00 GMT

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Russo’s New York Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen Opens Its Fourth Location in Saudi Arabia, Accelerates Global Expansion

Thu, 29 Dec 2022 16:02:00 GMT

Award-winning, Texas-based upscale casual brand Russo’s New York Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen has opened its fourth location in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on December 19, 2022.. Read More. on Yahoo Finance.

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Nibbles & Sips: Russo’s Expanding Locations Accross Fort Bend County

Sat, 22 Jan 2022 17:59:00 GMT

Russo’s New York Pizzeria is continuing to open new locations in the Fort Bend County area. Take a look at this article published by The Fort Bend Sta r entitled: Nibbles & Sips: Russo’s expanding pizza empire across Fort Bend County

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Franchise Times Top 400 ranks the industry’s biggest brands

Fri, 08 Oct 2021 18:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: October 1, 2021
Contact: Laura Michaels, editor in chief, Franchise Times; lmichaels@franchisetimes.com

Franchise Times Top 400 ranks the industry’s biggest brands Annual ranking shows COVID’s impact on franchising

Top 400 sales fell 13.1 percent in 2020, to $635.9 billion, as some brands thrived and others took a hit in a year of shutdowns, pandemic-related restrictions and radical change. Sales at the 10 largest franchises dropped 2.1 percent as those brands collectively lost nearly $7 billion. Among restaurants, the performance of Jersey Mike’s stands out, with CEO Peter Cancro among four exclusive featured interviews. The online database launches today, listing all 400 brands by worldwide sales.

MINNEAPOLIS—Combined annual sales at the 400 largest U.S.-based franchisors declined by more than $96 billion or 13.1 percent last year, to $635.9 billion, according to the newly released Franchise Times Top 400, an exclusive ranking of the 400 largest franchises.

The 10 largest franchised brands lost $6.9 billion in sales in 2020, a 2.1 percent decrease compared to that cohort’s 6.7 percent sales growth the prior year. The top 10 now account for more than $323 billion in annual sales.

Previously the Top 200+, Franchise Times renamed its annual ranking of the 400 largest U.S.- based franchise systems by global systemwide sales to better encompass the biggest brands in franchising, along with promising young concepts in growth mode. The rigorous approach to research remains the same, said Franchise Times Editor in Chief Laura Michaels. The project is the result of a five-month research and reporting effort that leads to the most credible and objective franchise ranking available.

The collection of systemwide sales data also provides useful insight into the franchise industry’s performance during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“While overall growth took a 13.1 percent hit in 2020, sales increases at major brands such as No. 2 7-Eleven and Ace Hardware, which grew to $91.8 billion and $20.6 billion, respectively, illustrate notable shifts in consumer spending,” said Michaels. “The retail category as a whole grew 7.4 percent, to more than $140 billion. In restaurants, however, overall sales declined 5.1 percent, with only pizza delivery, better burgers and chicken as the growth segments.”

“McDonald’s managed to retain the No. 1 overall position despite systemwide sales falling 6.8 percent to $93.3 billion,” continued Michaels. “KFC held onto the No. 3 spot even as its sales fell 5.8 percent, a contrast to Chick-fil-A’s gain of 11.2 percent to move up to No. 8.”

Burger King fell to No. 5, supplanted by No. 4 Ace’s performance and its own sales decline of $2.8 billion. No. 9 Subway and No. 10 Pizza Hut saw steep declines of 14.9 percent and 7.3 percent, respectively.

Among the four exclusive CEO interviews included in this year’s ranking, Jersey Mike’s CEO Peter Cancro shares how he powered through the pandemic and even completed a top-to-bottom

brand update that helped fuel a 25-spot jump on the Top 400. Executives from Jack in the Box, United Real Estate and College HUNKS Hauling Junk also share how they’ve accelerated sales.

Franchise Times Fastest-Growing Industry Sectors

1. Real Estate +18.5%
2. Health & Medical +9.2% 3. Retail +7.4%
4. Home Services +5.6%
5. Printing & Shipping +5.1%

Franchise Times Top 10 Franchises by Worldwide Sales

McDonald’s; $93.3 billion sales, -6.8% from prior year; 39,198 units, +1.3%
7-Eleven; $91.8 billion sales, +3.1% from prior year; 72,374 units, +3.1%
KFC; $26.3 billion sales, -5.8% from prior year; 25,000 units, +3.7%
Ace Hardware; $20.6 billion sales, +21.1% from prior year; 5,669 units, +2.1%
Burger King; $20 billion sales, -12.6% from prior year; 18,625 units, -1.1%
Domino’s; $16.1 billion sales, +12.6% from prior year; 17,644 units, +3.7%
Circle K; $15.2 billion sales, +22% from prior year; 11,312 units, +20.4%
Chick-fil-A; $14.1 billion* sales, +11.2% from prior year; 2,610 units, +4.4%
Subway; $13.7 billion* sales, -14.9% from prior year; 37,005 units, -9.5%
Pizza Hut; $11.9 billion in sales, -7.3% from prior year; 17,639 units, -5.7%

*Franchise Times estimate

Franchise Times Top 10 Fastest Growers by Sales Percentage

United Real Estate: 126.8%* increase from prior year
G.J. Gardner: 105.4%
uBreakiFix: 58.5%
American Family Care: 56%
Image360: 46.6%
Edible Arrangements: 32.7%
HomeV estors: 30.6%
City Wide: 30.4%
Wingstop: 28.8%
Marco’s Pizza: 28.4%
*Franchise Times estimate

Franchise Times Top 10 Fastest Growers by Unit Percentage

United Real Estate: 42.1% increase from prior year
Realty One Group: 38.6%
Gong Cha: 24.9%
Home2 Suites: 20.6%
Circle K: 20.4%
American Family Care: 20.3%
Visiting Angels: 19.5%
Smoothie King: 18.1%

9. Brightway Insurance: 15.9% 10. Jan-Pro: 15.6%

ABOUT THE FRANCHISE TIMES TOP 400

The Franchise Times Top 400 is the only ranking by systemwide sales and units of the largest 400 U.S.-based franchise brands. Published in the October issue and available in a searchable database online, the Franchise Times Top 400 also analyzes industry sectors based on percentage change in sales growth, reports the 10 fastest-growing franchises by four different measures, and includes exclusive news stories about the biggest names in franchising. The rankings and full report, and the searchable online database, are available at www.franchisetimes.com/top-400- 2021.

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In The News! Russo’s Inks Five-Store Agreement in Houston Market

Sat, 21 Aug 2021 13:52:00 GMT

Houston Multi-Unit Operator Signs Multi-Unit Agreement

Russo’s New York Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen signs multi-unit deal with new franchise owners, Randall & Ayesha McCoy. The McCoy family has signed for a five store development deal for the Houston market. Randall McCoy was extremely excited to join the Russo’s family, with history dating back to helping Anthony Russo at his first pizzeria in 1985. Today, even during the midst of a pandemic, he and his family have seen their dreams come true.

Randall McCoy states, “I remember grating mozzarella cheese, making fresh pizza dough, and leaving the restaurant covered in flour. So when I sat down to visit a Russo’s after many years, the aromas of the pizza and pasta immediately took me back to those days. I could tell right away, Russo’s was (and still is) all about quality ingredients.”

With the announcement that the McCoy family has signed for this five store development deal, Anthony Russo states, “We are incredibly excited to have the McCoy family join us. It’s never been a better time for Russo’s New York Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen, as we have seen our sales thrive even in the midst of a global pandemic”.

The McCoy family has plans to develop smaller units from 1500-1800 square feet featuring a full menu offering the freshest ingredients sourced directly from dairy farmers, tomato growers, and olive oil producers. All those fine, natural ingredients are used in all of Russo’s kitchens each day to prepare homemade sauces, salad dressings, pizza dough, fresh pasta, and much more. Classic Italian menu items include: Truffle Tortelloni, Pappardelle Carbonara, Russo’s Lasagna, Baked Ziti, Chicken Parmesan, Tuscan Vegan Pizza, Fettuccine Alfredo, Spicy Fennel Sausage Pizza, and much more.

Russo states, “Our locations are successfully designed to serve guests through dine in, home delivery, catering, takeout and curbside pick up. Our new 1500-1800 is designed for our franchisees to capitalize on the growing home delivery segment”. Russo states, “This means that this is the best time for you to start your own pizza franchise. Pizza not only is surviving, it is thriving”.

Russo’s corporate support team is strong and collaborative with a franchisee-friendly corporate culture and is ready for expansion. What separates Russo’s from the rest of the pizza industry is not only a great support team ready to tackle it all, but also the unique family recipes and fresh ingredients. With no additives or preservatives, Russo’s New York Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen creates dishes from ingredients that are safe and reliable from trusted brands. Chef Russo adds, “Our mission statement is: ‘If it isn’t fresh, don’t serve it.’ That is the Russo family promise.” The average store investment ranges from $350,000-$895,000. Qualified candidates must have at least $200,000 in liquid capital. To learn more about Russo’s menu, lunch specials, delivery, takeout, catering, or to order online, please visit www.nypizzeria.com

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Pizza Lovers Weigh In On The Best Pie In Town

Fri, 20 Aug 2021 13:44:00 GMT

Look who is in the top 14 pizza places in Houston! Houston Public Media lets pizza lovers weigh in on their favorite 50 billion dollar industry local spots.

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Now Is the Time to Start a New Restaurant

Fri, 20 Aug 2021 13:39:00 GMT

The Middle East is a great place for a New York style pizzeria! On the forefront of this trend is Russo’s New York Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen. Check out Truic Startup Savant’s mention of Russo’s Middle East concept growth.

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Small Businesses Respond to the U.S. Labor Shortage With New Recruiting Strategies

Fri, 20 Aug 2021 13:37:00 GMT

Navigating the Labor Shortage during and after the 2020 Covid pandemic is one of the restaurant industry’s biggest challenges in decades. Read more about wages, shortages, and recruitment fluctuations through 2021.

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Russo’s Pizza Franchise Owner Returns to His Roots Opening 5 Units in Texas

Fri, 04 Jun 2021 13:53:00 GMT

As a teenager working in the kitchen at the original Russo’s Pizzeria in Galveston, TX, Randy McCoy knew there was something special about the pizza franchise. He vividly recalls the mouth watering aromas of the authentic, made-from-scratch Italian food that has become synonymous with the Russo’s brand.

“It was a little, 500-square-foot take-out and delivery restaurant,” said Randy. “That was my first job. My brother and I assisted Anthony [Russo] with preparing all the fresh ingredients. I have a lot of good memories of those summers.”

Today, Randy is preparing to begin his journey to bring five Russo’s franchises to Galveston and North Houston markets. Joining Randy is his wife, Ayesha, as they set the stage for building a legacy of family-run businesses.

From Pizza Franchise Ownership to Construction

Growing up, Randy had always worked in the restaurant industry. He managed multiple restaurants in the Galveston area. At 24 years old, he took ownership of a local pizza franchise that was underperforming.

“He devoted his entire life to turning that restaurant around for several years,” explained Ayesha. “He resurrected it and ended up selling it for a profit a few years down the road.”

In 2008, an event occurred that spawned a sudden career change for Randy. Hurricane Ike hit Galveston and caused massive damage to the metropolitan area.

“It dawned on Randy that renovating and contracting was something he could easily fall into because of the fact that he grew up in the area and he had a lot of contacts in the area of various trade organizations,” she added.

He started a contracting business that exploded over the next couple of years. He got involved with the Galveston Historical Society in preserving buildings across the city.

While Randy was successful with his business and was able to take care of his family while Ayesha was completing her training to become a certified anesthesiologist, it ultimately wasn’t his passion.

“He kept coming back to the idea of opening a restaurant — specifically an Italian restaurant,” said Ayesha.

Returning to His Roots, Passion for Foodservice

In 2012, the husband-and-wife duo took an initial step toward returning to foodservice by opening a smoothie franchise in Dickinson, TX. It was their first experience building a restaurant from the ground up, but they thrived nonetheless. The store reached the No. 1 spot in sales in the region within the first year.

As fate would have it, a Russo’s location opened up in the same shopping center as the McCoys’ smoothie franchise. Randy’s future was staring him in the face.

After selling their smoothie business, they began researching different franchise opportunities and kept coming back to Russo’s. One of the biggest differentiators is the brand’s dedication to only using the highest-quality, freshest ingredients.

“I remember hand-shredding blocks of mozzarella and making gallons and gallons of marinara sauce,” said Randy. “When I owned that first pizza franchise, everything was shipped in pre-boxed and frozen.”

Russo’s dishes are made from scratch and use fresh, organic ingredients. The menu features distinctly unique pizzas, including Truffle Mushroom, Prosciutto & Burrata and Prosciutto & Fig. Other menu items include Truffle Tortellini, Caprese Pasta, Chicken Piccata and Pappardelle Carbonara. The restaurant also offers gourmet soups, salads and desserts.

Russo’s family traditions play a role in every aspect of each restaurant, from the authentic family recipes to the warm hospitality to the respect given to each individual who walks through the doors. Handing off these recipes and traditions to the community is what makes Russo’s so unique.

The Perfect Time to Invest in a Pizza Franchise

After Randy’s eldest son and Ayesha’s brothers had graduated from college, they realized it was the ideal time to do something big — with Russo’s at the heart of it.

The McCoys contacted Anthony Russo in 2019 with the initial goal of opening five locations.

“When we went to sign the franchise agreement, Anthony had prepared all of this food,” Randy explained. “When we opened the doors, the aromas hit me, and it all came rushing back.”

Randy and Ayesha will be opening their first restaurant in the North Houston market in the late summer. The couple is looking to open an additional restaurant every nine months to a year after that.

“This is such an exciting milestone for me and my family because I’m fulfilling a lifelong dream of mine while also planting the seeds for my children’s future and many generations to come,” said Randy.

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How To Make Perfect Pasta

Fri, 21 May 2021 13:50:00 GMT

Chef adds more than just salt when cooking the perfect pasta. Not only do you want to be sure your water is boiling and not to add water to it, but did you know it’s best not to rinse your pasta once you’ve drained it? Chef Anthony gave Mashed readers the perfect tip to keeping starches and flavors in your pasta, without rinsing. Read article

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New Franchise Promises To Become Fresno’s ‘Go-To Italian’

Fri, 21 May 2021 13:44:00 GMT

Russo’s is growing it’s family in 2021. After inking this 5-unit deal, California will see the first Russo’s New York Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen! With the love of authentic Italian food and a heart for entrepreneurship, the Fresno area is soon to welcome Don and Katherina Haines as the newest members of the Russo family.

See below for Press Coverage surrounding this expansion into a new marketplace.

Title: This New York-style pizzeria is planning to open 5 locations in Fresno, Clovis area

Title: New Franchise promises to become Fresno’s ‘go-to Italian’

Title: Russo’s New York Pizzeria Signs 5-Unit Deal for Fresno, California

Russo’s New York Pizzeria & Italian Scratch Kitchen Signs a Multi-Unit Franchise Agreement in Fresno California

Title: Russo’s Signs Fresno Multi-unit Deal

Title: The New Franchise Promises To Be Fresno’s “Go-To-Italian”

Title: Russo’s New York Pizzeria & Italian Scratch Kitchen Signs A Multi-Unit Franchise Agreement in Fresno California.

Title: Russo’s New York Pizzeria & Italian Scratch Kitchen Signs a Multi-Unit Franchise Agreement in Fresno California

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Global Franchise Magazine

Wed, 16 Dec 2020 13:51:00 GMT

Global Franchise is an international publication about franchising opportunities, curated regionally and internationally, over a wide selection of wealth sectors.

Russo’s New York Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen takes a slice of Global Franchise magazine’s issue with a three page spread. With our Fresh FDD numbers in tow, click here to learn more about how Russo’s is the best pizza delivery concept to invest in in 2021.

For more information about our franchise opportunities, fill out a form on our website and contact our franchise development team for our full FDD!

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Pasta: From Origins to Kitchens

Thu, 01 Oct 2020 14:12:00 GMT

TO EAT IN THE PRESENT, WE MUST LEARN FROM THE PAST(A)

Did you know it’s believed that as early as 3000 BC the Chinese made noodle-like foods? But it wasn’t until 400 BC that pasta was found in parts of modern day Italy. Versions of pasta have made it’s home all over the world since then, and we’re here for it!

All month long we’ll be celebrating the history of pasta. From bowties and shells, to traditional spaghetti and fettuccine, we love all shapes and sizes of our noodle friends. How do you noodle? Check out our different types of pasta combos and dishes on the menu that highlight this traditional ingredient. And yes, we have healthy pasta options: gluten-free pasta comes in a couple styles, just ask your store for more information.

So how do you make pasta? It’s pretty simple. You make pasta with 4 ingredients: flour, egg, olive oil, and salt. It’s up to you to choose the quality of ingredients. Follow this recipe on how to make pasta that is similar to the one Anthony Russo uses in all of his restaurants.

This family sized pasta recipe calls for:
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 6 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon salt (sea salt is the best!)
• 1 tablespoon Sicilian extra-virgin olive oil

1. Creating your pasta mixture
Clean a large table surface to mix all of the ingredients. Build your flour into a volcano-like shape. Add your eggs, olive oil, and salt directly into the center and gently mix everything together. Once the initial mixture starts to form, use your hands to incorporate more of the flour from the outer walls. Continue mixing until a giant ball forms.

2. Kneading the dough
Once your ball is formed, knead it for 10 minutes. The dough will start out dry and eventually become consistent and smooth. Incorporate drops of water if it’s still dry after 10 minutes, or dust flour if it’s too sticky. Shape into a ball, wrap it up in plastic wrap, and let rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes.

3. Prepping
Set aside two baking sheets with flour on them.

4. Rolling dough (Depending on your pasta rolling attachments (mechanical or manual) the following process may vary.)
• Slice the dough into a few pieces. Flatten into an egg-like shape like a disc. Run the dough through your pasta roller at its widest setting a few times.
• On your countertop, fold the dough’s short ends to the center, then fold the dough in half again, making a rectangle shape.
• Run the dough through your pasta roller at its next widest setting a few times. Repeat once on the more narrow settings each one more time.
• Repeat with all sections of the pasta dough.

5. Shape it up!
Depending how you want your pasta to be shaped, you may need to purchase attachments to run your pasta through. The simplest will be cutting strips by hand to make fettuccine, or using the whole sheet like in lasagna!

6. Cooking your pasta
Cook the pasta just like any store bought batch: in a pot of salted boiling water for 1 to 2 minutes.

7. Bon appetito!
Enjoy with toppings and sauces of your choice!

Have more than two people to feed? We’ve got you covered. Grab one of our Family Meal Deals, which serves 4-6, starting at only $49. Family Meal Deals come in different tiers, and you can combo different pastas trays within each. Breakdown below:
• $49 (choose from one below)
-Spaghetti with Meatballs half tray, house salad half tray, garlic bread half tray.
-Fettuccine Alfredo half tray, house salad half tray, garlic bread half tray.
-Baked Ziti half tray, house salad half tray, garlic bread half tray.
• $59 (choose from one below)
-Chicken Manicotti half tray, house salad half tray, garlic bread half tray.
-Eggplant Parmesan half tray, house salad half tray, garlic bread half tray.
-Chicken Piccata half tray, house salad half tray, garlic bread half tray.
• $69 (choose from one below)
-Chicken Parmesan half tray, house OR caesar salad half tray, garlic bread half tray.
-Russo’s Lasagna half tray, house OR caesar salad half tray, garlic bread half tray.
-Chicken Pesto Pasta half tray, house OR caesar salad half tray, garlic bread half tray.

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Protected: Pizza Isn’t Just Surviving, It’s Thriving.

Tue, 29 Sep 2020 14:00:00 GMT

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Russo’s Inks 5-Store Franchise Development Deal

Thu, 20 Aug 2020 21:04:00 GMT

Houston Multi-Unit Operator Signs Multi-Unit Agreement

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Houston Pizza Concept Announces Major Expansion into North Texas

Tue, 11 Feb 2020 13:53:00 GMT

Houston-based Russo’s New York Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen is heading into North Texas in a big way.

Founder and CEO Anthony Russo’s interest in expanding in Dallas-Fort Worth is rooted in the high growth the Metroplex is experiencing.

“There are a lot of customers from New York and New Jersey that live out there, and they miss that good calzone,” said Russo.

Over the next three years, the company plans to open 10 to 15 units. Russo will own some, while the others will be franchisee locations.

Of the company’s more than 50 stores, Russo owns six and is looking at possibly opening a couple of stores in North Texas as corporate stores to facilitate training.

Russo wants the company’s second Dallas store to open up near Southern Methodist University and is looking to open that unit this coming fall. Other stores would be spread out north of Dallas in Frisco, where Russo sees a lot of growth, and in Fort Worth.

To facilitate this expansion effort, the pizza company has partnered with Dallas-based commercial real estate company Henry S. Miller Co. With potential locations being scouted across North Texas, prospective franchise owners can reach out to the pizza company.

The pizzeria’s average annual sales are slight north of $1 million. Of the average $1,020,383, owners typically net 18.2 percent yearly. With a target area of high income and more affluent neighborhoods, Russo believes there are many opportunities to grow sales in the three- to five-mile radius.

Russo said the company looks for franchise owners with a net worth of about $500,000. The typical start-up costs for a Russo’s require franchise owners to have $200,000 on-hand. The company helps the franchise owners with the financing and construction efforts. in addition to training.

“Once they come check us out, they are pretty much sold on the concept,” said Russo. “What sets us apart is when they see how fresh our product is and how the numbers work. …The bottom line it’s pretty attractive to someone who wants to start a new business.”

According to Russo, potential franchise owners are often surprised by how low food costs are for the pizzeria. The numbers are in the low 20s at 20 and 21 percent for food costs where most restaurants spend 30 to 35 percent, he said.

The restaurants require an average of about 1,800 square feet, and labor costs typically range from 20 to 23 percent, he added.

In terms of obstacles for the expansion, Russo noted that finding the right location can be challenging and time-consuming.

“My challenge is finding the right site in certain areas, but we will.” said Russo, noting that he partnered with Henry S. Miller because “they know Dallas inside and out.”

Click here to view the article

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Russo’s New York Pizzeria Lands in Houston Heights

Fri, 24 Jan 2020 13:53:00 GMT

Russo’s New York Pizzeria announced their new Houston Heights location in Houston, Texas. The Heights location is scheduled for opening its doors in early 2020.

“We are so excited to be part of the Heights community,” says Anthony Russo, founder and CEO of Russo’s New York Pizzeria. “The Heights boasts rich history and is one of the hottest inner loop neighborhoods. Now with Houston being one of the food capitals of the country, it’s no surprise it would make a perfect home for our newest location. The Heights location will open its doors to an open kitchen design, smaller and more intimate build out, which will create a unique dining experience for all guests.”

Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Italian Kitchen offers the freshest ingredients sourced directly from dairy farmers, tomato growers, and olive oil producers. They take all those fine, natural ingredients and use them in all their kitchens each day to prepare homemade sauces, salad dressings, pizza dough, fresh pasta, and much more. New menu items include: Truffle Tortelloni, Pappardelle Carbonara, Shrimp Alfredo Pizza, Tuscan Vegan Pizza, Spicy Fennel Sausage Pizza, and much more.

Russo’s understands the magic created when you incorporate the enjoyments of great conversation with the pleasures of beautiful food and drink. “At Russo’s, we strive to recreate this sensation between family and friends at every meal. It’s not just the food that keeps our guests coming back. They come for the Russo’s dining experience,” Russo says.

Based in Houston, Russo’s Restaurants is composed of a mix of corporate and franchised locations across Texas, Oklahoma, and Florida. Russo’s has entered international markets as well, with locations in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah, in the United Arab Emirates.

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Russo’s New York Pizzeria Hits 50-Store Milestone with Opening of Pearland, Texas Location

Tue, 18 Jun 2019 13:56:00 GMT

Russo’s New York Pizzeria marks its 50th location in the Pearland Town Center. The Pearland location’s milestone opening was one of five openings for the brand in 2018, with new locations in Austin, Texas; Cedar Park, Texas; Spring, Texas; and Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

“It’s so exciting to see how far my family’s restaurant has come. From opening our first restaurant in 1978 after moving to Texas to cutting the ribbon at our 50th location in Pearland 40 years later, I’m thrilled to continue to grow the Russo’s legacy and share my family’s recipes with our customers,” says Anthony Russo, head chef and CEO of Russo’s New York Pizzeria. “Sam Farouz joined the Russo’s family in 2005, and we could not be happier to share our 50th opening with him. His expertise coupled with his passion for authentic Italian dining is second to none.”

Russo’s boasted five new openings in 2018 with four in Texas, including the Austin Arboretum, Cedar Park, Pearland Town Center, and Grand Parkway Marketplace, as well as international growth with a new location at the Springs Souk in Dubai, UAE. The well-known casual dining franchise expects to continue its momentum and growth as the brand looks to expand its footprint in Arizona, Florida, Tennessee, Texas, and internationally in the coming years.

“From the moment that customers walk into Russo’s, they know that they have come somewhere special and are getting a true slice of New York,” says Sam Farouz franchise owner of both the Pearland location and the Marq-E Entertainment Complex location. “The support that Chef Anthony and the entire Russo’s family provide for me and all of the franchisees across the globe doesn’t just keep our guests coming back, but recreates the genuine Russo’s dining experience time and time again.”

Russo’s New York Pizzeria in Pearland is located at 11200 Broadway, Suite #635 within the Pearland Town Center.

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Russo’s New York Pizzeria Hits Milestone with 50th Location in Pearland, Texas

Tue, 18 Jun 2019 13:55:00 GMT

Franchise Celebrates Landmark Opening with Plans for Growth in 2019 and Beyond

June 18, 2019 // Franchising.com // HOUSTON – Russo’s New York Pizzeria, the nation’s only chef-driven New York-style, Italian restaurant and pizzeria franchise concept, marks its 50th location in the Pearland Town Center. The Pearland location’s milestone opening was one of five openings for the brand in 2018, with new locations in Austin, Texas, Cedar Park, Texas, Spring, Texas and Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

“It’s so exciting to see how far my family’s restaurant has come. From opening our first restaurant in 1978 after moving to Texas to cutting the ribbon at our 50th location in Pearland 40 years later, I’m thrilled to continue to grow the Russo’s legacy and share my family’s recipes with our customers,” says Anthony Russo, Head Chef and CEO of Russo’s New York Pizzeria. “Sam joined the Russo’s family in 2005, and we could not be happier to share our 50th opening with him. His expertise coupled with his passion for authentic Italian dining is second to none.”

Russo’s boasted five new openings in 2018 with four in Texas, including the Austin Arboretum, Cedar Park, Pearland Town Center and Grand Parkway Marketplace, as well as international growth with a new location at the Springs Souk in Dubai, UAE. The well-known casual dining franchise expects to continue its momentum and growth as the brand looks to expand its footprint in Arizona, Florida, Tennessee, Texas and internationally in the coming years.

“From the moment that customers walk into Russo’s, they know that they have come somewhere special and are getting a true slice of New York,” notes Sam Farouz franchise owner of both the Pearland location and the Marq-E Entertainment Complex location. “The support that Chef Anthony and the entire Russo’s family provide for me and all of the franchisees across the globe doesn’t just keep our guests coming back, but recreates the genuine Russo’s dining experience time and time again.”

Russo’s New York Pizzeria in Pearland is located at 11200 Broadway, Suite #635 within the Pearland Town Center. To learn more about Russo’s menu, delivery, takeout, catering, or to order online, please visit www.nypizzeria.com.

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Two New Breweries Will Open In Houston This Year

Thu, 06 Jun 2019 13:57:00 GMT

By: Timothy Malcolm

One is coming to the Heights, and another is on its way in Near Northside.

IT’S LIKE THE GOLD RUSH : Breweries are opening at a steady rate in Houston, and the growth continues. Welcome Local Group Brewing and Russo’s New York Italia Pizza Kitchen & Brewery.

Local Group was formed by beer enthusiasts Todd Donewar and Michael Steeves, along with head brewer James “Huggy Bear” Wolfe, who previously led brewing operations at No Label Brewing in Katy. The trio will brew a variety of beers in a 2,700-square-foot brewhouse with eight 10-barrel serving tanks.

“Our goal is to focus on the whole experience within our building,” says Steeves,“and that includes the beer we brew in small batches, high-quality food, amenities for kids and pets and a relaxing, casual atmosphere that spreads across a patio with killer views and an air-conditioned taproom.:

They’ll have 20 taps inside its taproom, which will include a patio, at its modern-industrial space that once housed Acme Pattern Works. Doors are set to open in late 2019.

Meanwhile, Russo’s New York Pizzeria is branching into brewing beer, starting with a facility at 3415 Katy Freeway in the Heights. Russo’s New York Italia Pizza Kitchen & Brewery, which will be a first location and will open this year, will include a beer operation of up to 5,000 square feet. No word yet on the kind of beer Russo’s will specialize in producing.

Russo’s, which operates more than 50 pizza restaurants across the country and internationally, plans to open more than 20 locations of Italia Pizza Kitchen & Brewery.

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Russo’s New York Pizzeria to bring new microbrewery concept to the Heights area

Wed, 05 Jun 2019 14:00:00 GMT

By: Matt Dulin

Russo’s New York Pizzeria has announced plans to launch several locations of a microbrewery concept, Russo’s New York Italia Pizza Kitchen & Brewery , including one 3415 Katy Freeway slated to open in early 2020. The Heights-area location was eyed for another concept in 2016, but received new building permits May 15. The concept will offer pizza and pasta dishes, as well as brewed in-house craft beers. The company expects to open more than 20 brewery locations in Arizona, Florida, Tennessee, Texas and internationally, according to a news release. Another Houston location is planned near Memorial City Mall, according to the release. www.nypizzeria.com

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Velvet Taco Is Taking Over Galleria’s Zone d’Erotica

Wed, 05 Jun 2019 13:59:00 GMT

By: Adele Chapin

Welcome to AM Intel, a (mostly) daily round-up of Houston’s hottest bits of dining intel.

Trying to stay on top of Space City’s endlessly vibrant dining scene? Keep up with the hottest new openings, essential eateries, and more by subscribing to the Eater Houston newsletter , and following us on Twitter and Facebook .

Zone d’Erotica is about to become a restaurant

Velvet Taco’s expansion plans in Houston led it to moving into an interesting piece of real estate. Lingerie and adult novelty boutique (and infamous landmark ) Zone d’Erotica near Galleria’s Dillard’s is about to become a Velvet Taco outpost, per CultureMap Houston .

Burger-chan is opening up in the Galleria area

The Greenway Plaza food court eatery Burger-Chan is opening up a new shop at 5353 West Alabama St. CultureMap Houston has the details on the second location , which will go beyond burgers with steaks and more.

Russo’s New York Pizzeria is going into the brewery business

Local chain Russo’s New York Pizzeria is brewing up their own beer. Houston Business Journal reports that Russo’s New York Italia Pizza Kitchen & Brewery is debuting later this year at 3415 Katy Freeway. There will be pizza and four types of craft beer. The plan is already ambitious: the pizzeria wants to open 20 more breweries in five years.

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Russo’s New York Pizzeria Launches Italian Microbrewery

Tue, 04 Jun 2019 14:04:00 GMT

Russo’s New York Pizzeria, a chef-driven New York-style, Italian restaurant and pizzeria franchise concept, announces its latest franchise opportunity—an authentic Italian microbrewery. Conceptualized by Chef Anthony Russo, Russo’s New York Italia Pizza Kitchen & Brewery will open the doors to its first location in 2019.

The innovative Pizza Kitchen & Brewery will feature Russo’s infamous Italian menu with pizza and pasta-focused dishes, as well as unique craft beers, brewed in-house. The brewery will range from 3,500-5,000-square-feet and will host guests’ favorite Russo’s dishes that they know and love with the new design featuring a full view pizza kitchen concept, and open access to Chef Anthony’s craft beers as they are created.

“2018 was a huge year for the Russo’s franchise family that boasted international growth as well as the opening of our 50th restaurant,” says Anthony Russo, head chef and CEO of Russo’s New York Pizzeria. “Our new Pizza Kitchen & Brewery will specialize in handcrafted gourmet New York Style Pizzas made with all-natural ingredients, freshly made in-house pasta dishes like Lasagna, Gnocchi, Cannelloni, paired with freshly made sauces, dressings, soup and salads all adhering to Russo’s Family Promise, “If it isn’t fresh, don’t serve it”. The menu is sourced from fresh local ingredients and selected dairy farms for premium mozzarella and imported extra virgin olive oil from Sicily and aged balsamic vinegar from Italy.”

Russo’s opened four New York Pizzeria locations in 2018 with three in Texas—Austin, Pearland and Spring—as well as international growth in the UAE. The well-known casual dining brand expects to open 20-plus Italia Pizza Kitchen & Breweries as the brand looks to expand its footprint in Arizona, Florida, Tennessee, Texas and internationally. In the first quarter of 2019, Russo’s signed thee new brewery locations: Echo Lane & Bunker Hill, University Drive in College Station, and 3415 Katy Freeway-Houston, Texas.

Click here to view article.

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Chef Anthony Russo launches Italian microbrewery

Tue, 04 Jun 2019 14:03:00 GMT

Russo’s New York Pizzeria is franchising an Italian microbrewery concept called Russo’s New York Italia Pizza Kitchen and Brewery, with plans to open the first location this year.

A news release said the brand features Chef Anthony Russo’s menu of pizza and pasta, along with in-house brewed craft beers in a 3,500-5,000-square-foot space with an open kitchen and brewery so diners can see both food and drink being made.

Russo said his New York Pizzerias reached 50 locations last year, including three openings in Texas and one in the United Arab Emirates. For the Brewery brand, a news release said Russo plans to open more than 20 locations, primarily in the South and Southwest states of Arizona, Florida, Tennessee and Texas, as well as overseas.

Click here to view the article.

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Chef Anthony Russo Unveils Russo’s New York Italia Pizza Kitchen & Brewery

Tue, 04 Jun 2019 14:03:00 GMT

Plans to Open 20+ Stores in Texas

June 04, 2019 // Franchising.com // HOUSTON – Russo’s New York Pizzeria, the nation’s only chef-driven New York-style, Italian restaurant and pizzeria franchise concept, announces its latest franchise opportunity – an authentic Italian microbrewery. Conceptualized by Chef Anthony Russo, Russo’s New York Italia Pizza Kitchen & Brewery will open the doors to its first location in 2019.

“2018 was a huge year for the Russo’s franchise family that boasted international growth as well as the opening of our 50th restaurant,” says Anthony Russo, Head Chef and CEO of Russo’s New York Pizzeria. “Our new Pizza Kitchen & Brewery will specialize in handcrafted gourmet New York Style Pizzas made with all-natural ingredients, freshly made in-house pasta dishes like Lasagna, Gnocchi, Cannelloni, paired with freshly made sauces, dressings, soup and salads all adhering to Russo’s Family Promise, “If it isn’t fresh, don’t serve it”. The menu is sourced from fresh local ingredients and selected dairy farms for premium mozzarella and imported extra virgin olive oil from Sicily and aged balsamic vinegar from Italy.”

Russo’s opened four New York Pizzeria locations in 2018 with three in Texas – Austin, Pearland and Spring – as well as international growth in the UAE. The well-known casual dining brand expects to open 20+ Italia Pizza Kitchen & Breweries as the brand looks to expand its footprint in Arizona, Florida, Tennessee, Texas and internationally. In the first quarter of 2019, Russo’s signed thee new brewery locations: Echo Lane & Bunker Hill, University Drive in College Station, and 3415 Katy Freeway-Houston, Texas.

As Russo’s continues to bring its chef-driven concept into new markets, the brand awards franchise opportunities to qualified individuals who share a passion for fresh, quality food.

Click here to view the article.

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Houston-based pizza chain to open string of breweries

Tue, 04 Jun 2019 14:01:00 GMT

By: Laura Gillespie

Russo’s New York Pizzeria is dipping into the beer business. The Houston-based Italian pizza joint, which has numerous locations around the country and in the Middle East, is set to open its first brewery concept, Russo’s New York Italia Pizza Kitchen & Brewery, later this year.

The brewery team, led by brewmaster Giovanni Arrbitto, will brew four types of craft beer in-house, with the potential for more to come in the coming months. Russo’s team will also can beer at the site and will sell it to other Russo’s New York Pizzeria locations.

“I’ve been to several breweries where most of them don’t have really good food, they just have local beers that they make and produce, but the food quality is not there. So pizza and beer is the perfect mix, right?” CEO Anthony Russo said.

The initial brewery, at 3415 Katy Freeway, will be roughly 5,400 square feet and will include Russo’s staples, such as pizza. It will be along Interstate 10 near Studemont, and construction will begin sometime within the next two months. That location is expected to open early 2020 and will also serve as Russo’s headquarters.

The Katy Freeway location will seat 160, and Russo plans to hire between 35 and 40 people for the space. Russo estimates that the location will cost roughly $3 million to build from the ground up. Other locations should cost between $950,000 and $1.6 million. Russo requires that franchisees have $2 million or more in net worth, and the franchise fee for the brewery will be $39,000.

Russo’s expects to open over 20 more breweries in roughly the next five years, including one at Echo Lane and Bunker Hill in Houston and one in College Station. The location at Echo Lane and Bunker Hill will open roughly the same time as the Katy Freeway location.

Meanwhile, the company also opened four pizzerias in 2018, including two in the greater Houston area, in Pearland and Spring.

Currently, Russo’s New York Pizzeria serves pizza — both make-your-own and specialty — pasta, sandwiches, calzones, soup and salad. The brewery will have a similar, albeit smaller, menu. Pizzas will come with new toppings, such as portobello mushrooms and gorgonzola cheese.

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Russo’s Restaurants to open its first brewery concept in Houston

Fri, 31 May 2019 14:13:00 GMT

By: Greg Morago

Houston’s growing craft brewery landscape is about to get more heated. The Houston-based Russo’s New York Pizzeria brand is introducing its own brewery concept with plans to open 20 more in Texas and several other states.

Anthony Russo , head chef and CEO of Russo’s New York Pizzeria, announced that Russo’s New York Italia Pizza Kitchen & Brewery will open early 2020 in the Heights area. The 5,600-square-foot restaurant with its own brewing facility is set to begin construction in two months at 3415 Katy Freeway.

“Brewery places are popping up all around Houston,” Russo said. “With the Heights and Washington behind us, it feels right. To me, it screams brewery.”

Set to open in January or February, the restaurant/brewery will feature a tasting room, a packaging facility for beer sale, and a restaurant offering classic dishes from Russo’s menu including house-made pastas, pizza (topped with house-made mozzarella), calzones, salads and sandwiches. Russo said he also is hiring a brewmaster from Europe to create signature beers that eventually will be sold at Russo’s restaurants.

With about 20 pizzeria restaurants dotting the Houston area – including new stores that recently opened in Pearland, Spring and The Woodlands – Russo’s is poised to have an even greater culinary footprint in the city. Already, three more Russo’s New York Italia Pizza Kitchen & Brewery stores are planned for Houston in 2020.

Russo said that he expects to open more than 20 of the brewery restaurants in Texas, Arizona, Florida and Tennessee in coming years.

In 2018 Russo’s Restaurants opened its 50th restaurant, a mix of corporate and franchised stores across Texas, Oklahoma, Tennessee and Florida, as well as Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates.

Click here to view the article.

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Why There’s No Better Time Than Now to Franchise with Russo’s

Tue, 28 May 2019 14:14:00 GMT

Whether you’re just starting you franchise search, or you already have a shortlist of possibilities, you probably know that the market for pizza is huge. Like most people, you probably eat pizza at least a few times a month and you have your favorite delivery place on speed dial.

But did you know that all around the world pizza consumption is on the rise? And did you know that Russo’s New York Pizzeria is primed to take the industry into its next iteration? Let us show you how:

PIZZA IS ON THE RISE GLOBALLY

Currently, pizza is a $135 Billion industry, and that’s projected to grow even larger over the next five years. Markets with rising levels of disposable income are expected to contribute heavily to that increase, as is a shift in consumer focus.

For a potential pizza franchisee, that means the future of pizza franchising, both in the US and abroad, is looking bright. Russo’s has opportunities available to capitalize on that trend and on the willingness of pizza consumers to seek out quality.

THE DAWN OF THE DISCERNING PIZZA EATER

Sometimes you just want something quick and you don’t care about much else. But more often you want something that tastes great, is made with fresh ingredients, and comes from a company that cares about quality. The tide of the pizza industry is turning firmly in favor of discerning customers who know quality when they see it, smell it, taste it, and post it to their newsfeeds.

Customers today, especially Millennials and Gen Zers, care about more than quick and cheap when it comes to their pizza. And they’re putting their money where their mouths are, choosing to frequent establishments that share their values. That’s pretty easy for Russo’s because we’ve held those values from day one.

QUALITY THEY CAN TASTE

Russo’s uses only the finest, all-natural ingredients. We make our sauces and dough from scratch in-house and our customers can taste the difference.

Franchising with Russo’s allows you to take part in our 6 – 8 weeks of training in a real, operating restaurant, learning how we source our ingredients and why that freshness matters. You’ll become a part of a system that puts quality over quantity, and that consistently delivers on that ideal.

QUALITY THEY CAN SEE

With the advent of the internet, it’s not enough to just taste great anymore. Our customers want to snap a pic of their pizza and post it for the world to see. And we’re happy to let them .

Every aspect of a new Russo’s New York Pizzeria franchise, from the location to the buildout to sliding that first pie out of the oven, is fully supported by the franchisor, to make sure it’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.

AUTHENTICITY THEY CAN FEEL

Customers today don’t just pop into the first pizza place they see down the street. They do their research. They read websites and reviews and expect their experience to meet or exceed what they’ve learned.

Russo’s has a long history of providing top-quality pizza, stretching all the way back to Chef Anthony Russo’s upbringing and Italian heritage. Being a Russo’s franchisee lets you capitalize on that history, that family atmosphere, and that tradition of quality that customers walk into every Russo’s expecting.

No one thinks choosing a franchise should be a spur-of-the-moment decision. But, knowing the pizza industry as well as we do, and knowing how well-positioned we are within its changing landscape, we feel pretty safe in saying that the time is right to join the Russo’s family.

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4 Ways Russo’s is Unique in the Pizza Industry

Tue, 14 May 2019 18:02:00 GMT

The pizza industry has no shortage of franchise options. Customers could probably eat at a different franchise every night for a month. But when you’re considering your future franchise, you want more than just another option. You want a commitment to quality and a unique place in the market — the things that keep customers coming back instead of trying the other guys.

At Russo’s New York Pizzeria, we’ve learned through our decades of pizza preparation that what customers want is a higher-quality experience. And what franchisees need is to get their hands in the dough and see pizza the way we do — as Italians.

Let’s look at some of the ways Russo’s is different than the other guys, as a pizza restaurant and a franchisor, so you can see why Russo’s is such a great franchise opportunity.

To Us, Freshness Matters

We have a pretty simple philosophy when it comes to freshness: If it isn’t fresh, we don’t serve it. Our tomatoes are grown exclusively for Russo’s on a California farm and our sauce and dough are made fresh daily. We use 100% all-natural ingredients and we even have gluten-free options.

Sure, it would be easier to get everything frozen, but since when is good food about taking the easy route? At Russo’s, we know that our customers want that fresh experience, so we make sure our franchisees are dedicated to rolling up their sleeves and making freshness a top priority.

Upscale-Casual is the Next Generation of Pizza

Success in any business requires keeping an eye on the industry. And we’re watching a shift in the desires of customers, from quick and cheap to fresh and refined. Our customers want that upscale-casual experience that other names in the pizza game can’t match.

Throughout the world, pizza is on the rise, and Russo’s is primed to be at the forefront of the high-quality pizza craze . Instead of pizza churned out from a factory, younger, more discerning pizza fans want to know that care went into their pie. That’s what Russo’s offers and that’s what we teach to each of our franchisees.

Hands-On Training Gets Your Fists in the Dough

As a Russo’s franchisee, you’re not just learning how to sell pizza, you’re learning how to take fresh ingredients and turn them into an unforgettable meal. You’re getting your hands dirty, literally and figuratively.

Our 6 – 8-week training program takes place in live, existing restaurants. We’re not going to sit you down in a classroom and expect you to pick up on something that takes hands-on experience to master.

From POS to recipes, from delivery to catering , we provide the highest degree of training so that every Russo’s franchisee is prepared to give their customers the highest degree of service. That care comes from our family background.

We’re Proud of Our Italian Heritage

You don’t have to be Italian to run a pizza restaurant, but it helps. And our commitment to quality, freshness, and an upscale experience comes directly from the family atmosphere that our founder, Chef Anthony Russo, was raised in.

When you become a Russo’s franchisee, you join that family and get to see firsthand how unique we are in the pizza industry. We don’t cut corners. We don’t rely on quantity over quality. We do things the right way, like our family always has. And our dedicated customers can tell the difference.

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How Russo’s New York Pizzeria Keeps Customers Craving for More

Tue, 23 Apr 2019 14:15:00 GMT

It’s easy to sell Russo’s New York Pizzeria products, especially since we only use high-quality ingredients. There’s no better way to showcase them than the high-resolution images we use for advertising purposes. However, our customer-shot social posts are just as appetizing and mouthwatering as our professional images.

But don’t take our word for it, see the proof for yourself below:

We’d say our customers’ work isn’t half bad. But our customers are just a small piece of getting the Russo’s word out to your community.

When it comes to marketing, we’ve got our franchisees covered. Not only do you get the benefit of national advertising reach, but you also get to work with vendors that give Russo’s franchisees preferred pricing for marketing materials, including branded menus, flyers, postcards and more.

MARKETING YOUR RUSSO’S RESTAURANT

During your grand opening, we provide what we like to call a Grand Opening Roadmap. This document details exactly how to promote and market your big day using Russo’s proven marketing and advertising strategies. We also help with local publicity to build buzz around your store.

All franchisees also get access to a library of customizable marketing templates, including door hangers, fliers, email blasts, and other guerilla marketing efforts. If you want to create marketing materials from scratch, our in-house design team can help with that, too.

Plus, we provide franchisees with a user-friendly website, equipped with online ordering and delivery capabilities. We give you website best practices support, as well as guidance on how to manage third-party delivery services to generate brand awareness in your market. We also have several catering partnerships that help get the word out about our franchisee-owned locations.

The Russo’s corporate marketing team closely monitors every store to see how well it’s performing. We believe that one-on-one guidance is the difference that makes or breaks a franchise. That’s why, every month, we analyze your market and go over what works and what doesn’t, together.

Our sophisticated marketing efforts aren’t the only thing that help grow your Russo’s Business.

4 REVENUE STREAMS HELP, TOO

Our franchise marketing and advertising efforts are solidified with the Russo’s business model’s four revenue streams.

1) SIT-DOWN DINING

When our customers decide to dine in, they come for the award-winning, made-to-order pizza but stay for the good times that come with it (a fine selection of wine and beer helps, too). Even better, our dine-in option proves to produce higher ticket averages.

2) DELIVERY

When our customers feel like staying in, we’re happy to bring our irresistible food directly to them. All they have to do is use the easy-to-navigate online ordering system we told you about earlier.

3) TAKEOUT

Many of our customers prefer to place an order for pick-up. On average, 20 to 40 percent of business comes from takeout orders, making this one of our most popular and profitable revenue streams. Plus, takeout allows our customers get the same great Russo’s taste, minus the tip.

4) CATERING

We take marketing and advertising seriously, but we’re also sure to never leave our franchisees hanging. We provide the support necessary to run your Russo’s business like a boss.

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4 Benefits of Franchising With Russo’s New York Pizzeria

Tue, 09 Apr 2019 14:16:00 GMT

Russo’s New York Pizzeria is an emerging franchise that’s quickly making a name for itself in the pizza industry. We serve authentic Italian food in a New York City atmosphere. That means everything from our authentic pizzas to our unforgettable pastas, and even the sauces we use for every dish are made in-house using 100-year-old family recipes.

Our delicious and authentic food offerings are why Alex and Nivine (photographed above) decided to franchise with Russo’s in 2006, and they haven’t looked back since. Here’s why:

1) OUR PASSION FOR HIGH-QUALITY FOOD IS OBVIOUS

The consensus is unanimous; the franchisees in our system all say they were attracted to our brand because of the food. It’s easy to see why our pizza is award-winning; we carefully make and hand-toss our dough in-house and hand-crush vine-ripened tomatoes for our sauce. Best of all, we use a brick oven to bake our New-York-style pizzas to perfection. We get in the kitchen and cook using generations-old recipes that keep our customers’ mouths watering.

Russo’s truly is a chef-inspired concept. That means our founder, Chef Anthony Russo, travels around the world to source the finest ingredients. For example, we use estate-aged basalmic vinaigrette imported directly from Modena, Italy, and 100 percent Sicilian extra virgin olive oil sourced directly from Sicily, exclusively for Russo’s Restaurants. This is only the beginning of the authenticity simmered into each and every Russo’s recipe.

2) THE PROOF IS IN THE TICKET MARGINS

We have lower food costs than our competitors and high margins to our bottom line. At Russo’s, food costs average to 20.7 percent, while the average net cash flow averages at 18.2 percent.*

How do we do it? Easy. Russo’s offers a diverse menu mix that caters to a variety of tastes. Most pizza franchises only serve pizza; on top of our award-winning pizza, we offer authentic Italian favorites, including pastas, sandwiches, soups, salads and desserts. And since we give it all to our customers for an affordable price, they’re more inclined to add to their order —improving ticket averages.

So far, Russo’s has seen nothing but growth in the United States and on an international level. The reason for this is consumer trends in the pizza industry are changing. PMQ Pizza Magazine says the next generation of pizza lovers want higher-quality offerings with fresh, all-natural ingredients. That’s exactly what Russo’s serves – a high-quality experience with authentic food to match. Meanwhile, our competitors are scrambling to keep up with today’s pizza trends. Pizza franchises like Pizza Hut have seen a continuous net decline of stores since 2015.

3) HANDS-ON SUPPORT MAKES ALL THE DIFFERENCE

Russo’s franchisees are not afraid to get into the kitchen and make food the way it should be made—using fresh ingredients and tried and true recipes. That’s why we offer comprehensive pre- to post-opening support, where you’ll get a hands-on four- to six-week training at our Houston headquarters.

Before you open the doors to your first Russo’s location, our Franchise Specialists are physically by your side, helping to ensure you have a perfectly trained staff in place ready for the big day. We also help with grand-opening publicity and your marketing plan. After your grand opening, we provide one-on-one support and guidance on a monthly basis to see what works best in your market.

Russo’s franchisees also benefit from collective buying power. We have strong relationships with premier vendors and suppliers who give us preferred pricing for the high-quality ingredients we use in every dish. It’s thanks to these relationships we’re able to offer such a high-value experience to our customers on a daily basis.

4) UNIQUE, INNOVATIVE STORE MODEL

Russo’s Next Generation Pizza & Italian Restaurant model is leading the fast-casual Italian dining category by creating a store (and business) model that is meeting customer demand as well as investor needs.

Our smaller footprint (1,500-1,800 sq. ft.) allows for an intimate, yet upscale dine-in experience focused on customer service. From an investment perspective, a smaller footprint means a lower barrier to entry for entrepreneurs entering the restaurant franchise business with an initial investment less than $500,000 in select markets. (With a $972,891 AUV*!)

In a recent Mintel Reports study, Foodservice Analyst, Diana Kelter, shares these findings: As dining habits shift and the landscape gets more competitive, fast casuals look beyond what worked in the past and focus on what lies ahead, including more premium beverages and automation as well as the showcasing of specialty concepts on a mainstream stage. The report also revealed fast-casual restaurants are “struggling to capture the dinner appeal.”

Russo’s is already catering to these consumer demands.

We serve gourmet-quality pizza and Italian offerings in a NYC-worthy environment using an open-kitchen concept. Our customers come for the unforgettable food but stay for the good times that come with it. Come into one of our locations to see it for yourself.

If you can’t already tell, we’re obsessed with quality. From ingredients to support, we provide our franchisees the best. If you want to keep learning why Russo’s is the only pizza franchise you should consider, click here .

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How Russo’s Supports Its Franchisees

Tue, 26 Mar 2019 14:17:00 GMT

At Russo’s New York Pizzeria, there’s only one thing we care about more than our amazingly high-quality pizzas and authentic Italian offerings. That’s supporting every franchisee’s journey to the best of our abilities. We’re Italian; that makes our franchisees family.

From pre-opening support to ongoing training and marketing assistance, we’ve got you covered through and through. But let us tell you exactly how we have your back throughout your Russo’s journey.

HANDS-ON TRAINING

One of the things our franchisees love most is the hands-on training they get before opening their first Russo’s location. We do everything in our power to make sure you’re prepared before your big day.

It all starts with a four- to six-week training program at our Houston headquarters for you and up to three employees. Not only will we teach you our trade secrets and sacred family recipes, but the best part is your team gets to taste them, too.

DEDICATED REAL ESTATE TEAM

The beauty of owning a Russo’s is every location is unique in its own right. We can make our concept fit in locations as small as 1,500 square feet.

Our dedicated real estate team will help you identify and secure an optimized location for your franchise business after completing a market assessment. We even assist with lease negotiations. You’ll also work directly with a Russo’s architect to design the restaurant of your dreams.

GRAND OPENING ASSISTANCE

Rest assured knowing our team will be on-site to guide you before your opening day. We help train your staff to handcraft New York style pizza and Italian cuisine the Russo’s way. We also help create buzz around your location, using 20 years of proven Russo’s advertising and marketing strategies, including local public relations initiatives.

Oh, and every franchisee gets what we like to call the Russo’s Grand Opening Roadmap, a step-by-step guide to a successful first day of business.

PROVEN MARKETING INITIATIVES

We’ll give you a tool kit to help with digital, direct and grass-roots marketing in your neighborhood, including email blasts, door hangers, flyers and more. You’ll also get access to customizable marketing templates, as well as social media assets. We provide best practices on marketing your business. Additionally, we’ve developed a network of third-party marketing vendors (e.g. Local SEO ) and negotiated special pricing with them to help support your local store marketing efforts.

SUPPORT BEYOND YOUR GRAND OPENING

Our leadership team makes it a point to stay engaged and up to date with your progress. That means one-on-one guidance with operational, administrative and marketing initiatives from experienced Franchise Specialists. Together, we figure out what will work best in your market.

At Russo’s New York Pizzeria, we’re invested in your success, and the proof is in more than just the pizza. The numbers say it all; Russo’s boasts $972,891 average unit sales and an average net cash flow of 18.2 percent.* See how we measure up against other pizza franchise concepts for yourself: The Russo’s New York Pizzeria Difference .

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Pizza Industry Statistics Are in Our Favor

Tue, 12 Mar 2019 14:18:00 GMT

People love pizza, and the love for these savory pies only grows with each passing year. Today, at least 83 percent of consumers eat pizza once a month, while 43 percent of people eat it on a weekly basis. Although the obsession over pizza is here to stay, the demands of those who eat it are moving the industry in an interesting new direction.

Buying power is shifting from Baby Boomers to Generation Z and Millennials who want to pay more if it means better quality. As Technomic ’s Senior Manager of Consumer Insights, Anne Mills explains, “Increased demand for quality and authenticity is influencing consumers to become increasingly discerning about each component on their pizzas.”

Consumers are becoming more conscious of what they put in their body. In fact, 44 percent of pizza lovers choose operators who use fresh, high-quality toppings and ingredients. Here’s another interesting statistic: 49 percent of consumers seek more authentic pizza offerings.

Unlike their predecessors, today’s pizza lovers want more than a slice of pie that’s just “good enough.” They want something flavorful, memorable and Instagrammable .

The shift in pizza trends mean heavy hitters like Pizza Hut and Domino’s are looking for ways to make their offerings, service and restaurants feel more upscale. On the other hand…

RUSSO’S DOESN’T NEED TO CHANGE A THING

At Russo’s New York Pizzeria , we believe you shouldn’t have to travel to New York City (or Italy) to get a taste of truly authentic, quality Italian pizza, pastas or salads. We’re known for our gourmet-quality offerings served in a New-York-style setting and, our pizza is award-winning for a reason.

IF IT ISN’T FRESH, WE DON’T SERVE IT

While many of our big-brand competitors use frozen dough, we make ours fresh, using 100 percent Italian semolina wheat. That’s not all; we are extremely selective about where we source all of our ingredients, too. Here’s an example: we use vine-ripened tomatoes from California and pure mozzarella from a quaint, Wisconsin dairy farm.

Everything is carefully crafted and made in-house – our dough is hand-tossed and our cheese is sourced from a quaint dairy farm in Wisconsin. We even make pastas and dressings ourselves.

WE’RE PROUD OF OUR ITALIAN ROOTS

Italian cuisine is a social food; it’s something our founder, Chef Anthony Russo learned from an early age. He says eating was an emotional experience and the kitchen was the center of his family’s life. They taught him cooking techniques from Naples, Sicily and Avellino using ingredients from their backyard garden.

The Russos loved cooking so much, the patriarch of the family opened an Italian restaurant, where Chef Anthony refined his culinary skills. Mastering his craft in his father’s restaurant was the coal that fired his passion for making authentic Italian cuisine. It’s also what sparked the idea for Russo’s New York Pizzeria.

We are at the forefront of the change consumers want to see from the pizza industry. We offer picture-perfect food with quality taste to match. And numbers don’t lie – PMQ Pizza Magazine data reveals Russo’s consistently surpasses the average pizza chain’s single-store sales. Ask for a copy of our Franchise Disclosure Document for proof.

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A Pizza Franchise With 4 Distinct Revenue Streams

Tue, 26 Feb 2019 14:18:00 GMT

Considering franchising? You’re in the right place. Russo’s New York Pizzeria is an emerging franchise with four revenue streams, making a name for itself in the pizza industry. Here’s why:

OLD-WORLD COOKING GOES A LONG WAY

Italian old-world cuisine is a social food meant to excite and inspire celebration around the table. And that’s exactly what Russo’s New York Pizzeria provides its customers.

What we serve is hard to come by – particularly in the pizza industry – thoughtfully crafted, authentic Italian pizza, pasta and salad in an NYC-worthy environment, no matter where we’re located. Guillermo, a multi-unit franchisee in Texas describes our restaurants perfectly, “From the moment customers walk in, they know they’ve come somewhere special. They’re getting a true slice of New York.”

We stay away from packaged goods and only incorporate high-quality ingredients in our recipes. All of the vegetables we use as toppings and in our sauce are chopped or crushed by hand, while our dough is crafted in-house with 100 percent semolina wheat.

Our gourmet-quality dishes are artisanal, rich and flavorful, something we like to call an affordable luxury. Now that’s a high-value proposition. We don’t just follow a formula, we get in the kitchen and cook! More importantly, our family recipes have stood the test of time for hundreds of years. It’s what keeps customers coming back for more, every single day.

4 WAYS TO BUILD YOUR RUSSO’S BUSINESS

The Russo’s business model has four revenue streams to maximize our franchisees’ top line, making our concept highly competitive.

Sam Farouz, another one of our multi-unit franchisees in Texas, says it’s one of the biggest reasons he chose to franchise with Russo’s, “I really liked the business concept. It generates great returns because there are multiple sources of revenue.”

1) SIT-DOWN DINING

Americans eat out at least five or six times a week. And when our customers decide to dine in, they expect unpretentious excellence. They come for the award-winning, made-to-order pizza but stay for the good times that come with it (a fine selection of wine and beer helps, too). Oh, and it wouldn’t be New-York-style pizza if we didn’t also offer it by the slice.

Our dine-in option proves to produce higher ticket averages. Plus, our relationships with national partners help drive guests through your doors.

2) DELIVERY

Nearly 40 percent of adults say they aren’t eating in-restaurant as often as they’d like. When our customers feel like staying in, we’re happy to bring our irresistible food directly to them. All they have to do is use our easy-to-navigate online ordering system. With in-house delivery, we can ensure every guest gets Russo’s-quality service every time.

Having a delivery process built into the restaurant model allows our owners to maximize profitability and remain competitive in a market where other restaurants pay third-party companies to capture delivery orders.

3) TAKEOUT

Many of our customers prefer to place an order for pick-up. On average, 20 to 40 percent of business comes from takeout orders, making this one of our most popular and profitable revenue streams. Counter service also helps keep labor costs down. Plus, takeout allows our customers get the same great Russo’s taste, minus the tip.

4) CATERING

Fast-casual catering has grown 11 percent , year over year. That’s why we offer full-service catering, too. Parties, small and large, can choose from a full menu of Italian specialties or customize buffet-style service. We also have national partners, as well as, proven marketing strategies, that help drive catering sales.

There’s no doubt everyone who visits Russo’s can taste (and feel) the difference compared to competing pizza franchises who focus on quantity rather than quality. That’s what sets Russo’s apart from similar pizza franchise concepts.

With four revenue streams and gourmet-quality food for a reasonable price, it’s easier to capture more of the market share in your local area. Don’t believe us? Russo’s average sales beat those of the industry average for chain stores report by PMQ Pizza Magazine . Make the comparison yourself, reach out to us to learn more today.

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Why Russo’s Is the Only Pizza Franchise You Should Consider

Tue, 12 Feb 2019 21:37:00 GMT

PMQ Pizza Magazine calls the next generation of pizza lovers – Gen-Zers and Millennials – “ discerning diners ,” while Technomic’s Pizza Consumer Trend Report calls the group’s love for pies the “ Rise of the Pizza Connoisseurs .”

Research from these studies shows some pretty saucy findings:

43 percent of consumers eat pizza at least once a week
49 percent of consumers want more authentic pizza offerings
44 percent choose operators who use high-quality/fresh toppings and ingredients
44 percent choose operators who have the best crust

The Future of Pizza is Changing, No Matter How You Slice It

The Technomic study also asked consumers: Which types of regional pizzas would you consider ordering – California-style, St. Louis-style, Chicago-style or New York-style?

New York-style pizza took the biggest slice of the pie (pun intended) with 65 percent of consumers in its favor. The study concluded that Italian pizzas are on the rise as well.

Bruce Irving of Smart Pizza Marketing told PMQ Pizza Magazine , “The younger generation wants to know what’s in their food, and that’s a great opportunity for independents to dominate their market, because they can do that.”

The truth of the matter is people are willing to pay a little more for better-tasting food made with real ingredients. In an increasingly health-conscious world that feeds off a new-found obsession with quality, Russo’s New York Pizzeria stands out above the rest.

Remember the Statistics We Told You About Earlier?

Well, Russo’s fulfills every single one of them. Don’t believe us? Keep reading.

43 percent of consumers eat pizza at least once a week
Whether our customers need a Russo’s fix in our New-York-style restaurant or want to enjoy our pizza and Italian favorites from the comfort of their home, we have them covered. In fact, they can get a taste of our Italian masterpieces four different ways: sit-down dining, online ordering/delivery, takeout, and catering.

49 percent of consumers want more authentic pizza offerings
Russo’s recipes are 100 percent Italian. Although Chef Anthony Russo grew up in New Jersey, his parents immigrated to America from Italy. He learned how to cook in the kitchen of his father’s restaurant and from relatives visiting from Naples and Sicily. The recipes we use are more than 100 years old. And since we are a New-York-style pizzeria, we even offer our pizzas by the slice. It doesn’t get more authentic than that.

44 percent choose operators who use high-quality/fresh toppings and ingredients
Our pizza is award-winning for a reason; we never use packaged ingredients because above all, we value quality – and so do our customers. But what makes our pizza so great? We don’t believe in cutting corners and don’t mind getting our hands dirty.

For instance, we carefully make and hand-toss our dough in-house and hand-crush vine-ripened tomatoes for our sauce. Best of all, we don’t use a conveyor-belt oven; we use a brick oven to bake our New-York-style pizzas to perfection.

We don’t follow a formula, we get in the kitchen and cook using generations-old recipes that keep our customers’ mouths watering. Maybe this picture will get your mouth watering, too.

44 percent choose operators who have the best crust
We know we told you about the dough already, but we forgot to mention we make it with 100 percent semolina wheat, most commonly used in Italy. It’s how our crust gets its perfect golden coloring and unforgettable earthy aroma. Our proprietary flour doesn’t contain additives or preservatives either. We also have a gluten-free option available for more health-conscious guests.

It’s clear; the pizza industry is changing. While our most significant competitors are scrambling to meet the demands that come with the “Rise of Pizza Connoisseurs,” Russo’s barely has to lift a finger. We’ve been serving truly authentic, all-natural, gourmet Italian pizzas and cuisines since we began. And, we serve it in a warm and inviting, NYC-worthy environment.

If you’re looking to invest in a pizza franchise, do it with the guys who are already meeting today’s pizza trends, not struggling to keep up with them.

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Russo’s New York Pizzeria Difference

Tue, 29 Jan 2019 14:20:00 GMT

Pizza. Everybody loves it. You probably do, too. It’s likely one of the major reasons you’re thinking about investing in a pizza franchise in the first place. While it’s deliciously lucky to have limitless options to devour, it also means there are dozens of pizza franchises to choose from. How do you know which to pick?

Big-brand chains seem like the obvious choice, but there’s plenty of data (and complaints) that may change your mind.

WHAT BIG-BRAND PIZZA CHAINS ARE DOING WRONG

First and foremost, they fail their customers on a regular basis. Don’t believe us? Head to any social media platform and search the hashtag of any big-name pizza chain. The results are shocking.

There are never-ending complaints about terrible service and poor-quality food. You’ll find everything from unreasonably long wait times to employees and store managers denying making a mistake at all. Many pizza chains even use frozen dough – or worse – frozen pizzas altogether.

Here are some examples we pulled from public social media posts to give you a sample-sized taste of what we mean:

Yes, big-brand pizza franchises offer quick service and bargain prices, but that also means they have to compromise on something; more often than not, it’s quality. According to consumer trends, that’s a huge misstep in the wrong direction.

Technomic says to get ready for the “Rise of the Pizza Connoisseurs” who prefer quality above all else. PMQ Pizza Magazine says the next generation of pizza lovers is looking for more authentic offerings, fresh ingredients, healthy alternatives, and a fully integrated experience. They don’t mind being wined and dined in a more upscale restaurant environment either.

Foodservice Analyst, Diana Kelter, shares her findings in a recent Mintel Reports study, “As dining habits shift and the landscape gets more competitive, fast casuals look beyond what worked in the past and focus on what lies ahead, including more premium beverages and automation as well as the showcasing of specialty concepts on a mainstream stage.” The report also revealed fast-casual restaurants are “struggling to capture the dinner appeal.”

That’s why so many “Pizza Connoisseurs” are turning to smaller pizza chains that already meet their demands for higher quality everything.

What Russo’s Is Doing Right

At Russo’s New York Pizzeria , quality is the foundation for everything we do. Each pizza and dish is crafted with skill and care using fresh ingredients. That means we make everything in-house, including our unforgettably flavorful sauce and incredibly rich dough. Even our pasta is made fresh.

We’re talking about vine-ripened tomatoes, pure mozzarella cheese, 100-percent Italian semolina wheat…you get the picture. If you don’t, here are a few for reference:

We even have authentic Italian roots and use generations-old family recipes. Our founder, Chef Anthony Russo learned to cook from his parents who immigrated to the United States from Italy. He incorporates flavors from Naples and Sicily into each item on our extensive menu.

Italians are famously known for more than just their food but the experience that comes with eating it. Chef Russo says one of his favorite things about growing up was the memories his family created around the dinner table. That’s why we strive to recreate that feeling with every customer we serve. And we do it all in a New-York-style pizzeria setting.

In a world where consumers are willing to spend a little more for higher quality cuisine and a memorable experience, Russo’s beats out those big-name chains on all fronts.

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RUSSO’S COAL-FIRED ITALIAN KITCHEN AT THE RIM ANNOUNCES NEW OWNERSHIP

Mon, 19 Nov 2018 18:02:00 GMT

San Antonio location headed by Chef Russo celebrates with new menu items

SAN ANTONIO, TX – Russo’s New York Pizzeria, the only authentic New York-style, Italian restaurant and pizzeria franchise concept, is excited to announce new corporate ownership of Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen at The Rim in San Antonio. Head Chef and CEO Anthony Russo recently acquired the location and is planning to bring 5 – 10 new locations to the area by end of 2019, the restaurant will also serve as the flagship training location for the region.

“We are thrilled to have The Rim location under our corporate umbrella,” said Chef Anthony Russo, Head Chef and CEO behind the brand. “With seven corporate Russo’s locations in Texas, we are excited to be bringing brand new menu items to our San Antonio store.”

Blending the simplicity of a pizzeria with the freshness of an upscale Italian restaurant, Russo’s delivers a chef-driven dining experience using Russo’s family recipes since 1978. At 3,500 square-feet, The Rim location offers gourmet pizzas cooked in an authentic coal-fired pizza oven and Italian fare, including homemade pappardelle pasta, meatballs, sausage and house made fresh mozzarella. The location features an indoor/outdoor patio, full bar, catering, and delivery to residents and businesses.

Russo’s is passionate about menu innovation. The restaurant has launched 12 new menu items including six new flatbread sandwiches. Some of the new menu items include:

Baby Artichoke Appetizer – Fresh Artichokes marinated in Sicilian extra virgin olive oil, garlic and lemon.
Truffle Mushroom Pizza – Fresh portabella mushrooms, Wisconsin mozzarella and truffle mushroom olive oil sauce, topped with fresh arugula.
Butternut Squash Gnocchi – Homemade butternut squash gnocchi served with Gorgonzola cheese sauce, topped with sun dried tomatoes.
Pasta Pescatori – Fresh Gulf shrimp, calamari, mussels and lobster, served with Pinot Grigio marinara sauce and topped with fresh basil.

Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen at The Rim will also be the brand’s first location to offer a brand new brunch menu on the weekends.

Russo’s New York Pizzeria is a unique pizza and Italian restaurant concept. Russo’s brings the old-fashioned Italian family recipes and the taste of Italy to the The Rim. The boasts an inviting open-kitchen concept to its 900 degree coal fired pizza oven creating the perfect crust texture. The upscale ambience is enhanced with an impressive wine bar and wine selection and also serves local brews and signature cocktails. There is no better place in San Antonio to enjoy brunch, lunch, happy hour or a nice Italian dinner.

Russo’s hand rolls and proofs its pizza dough fresh each day and only uses flour that doesn’t contain any additives or preservatives. The restaurant makes its pappardelle and gnocchi pastas fresh, in-house, and only uses the finest, premium ingredients. Russo’s incorporates vine ripened tomatoes from California, olive oil imported from Sicily, and authentic Italian spices in its signature sauces. A selection of Gluten Free pastas and pizzas are also available.

Lunch specials at the restaurant begin at $9.95 with an assortment of delicious pasta bowls that are coupled with a fresh side salad topped with homemade signature dressings made only at Russo’s.

Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen at The Rim is located at 17631 La Cantera Parkway. It is open for lunch, dinner, delivery and take out Sunday – Thursday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 12 a.m. For more information about the menu, delivery, takeout, catering, or to order online, please visit www.nypizzeria.com or call 210-561-7616.

About Russo’s Restaurants

Russo’s Restaurants is a national and international franchisor of the casual dining brand Russo’s New York Pizzeria. Based in Houston, Russo’s Restaurants is composed of a mix of corporate and franchised locations across Texas, Oklahoma, Tennessee, and Florida. Russo’s has entered international markets as well, with locations in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah, in the United Arab Emirates. Chef Anthony Russo created Russo’s Restaurants by applying his unique, family recipes featuring New York-style pizza, handcrafted pasta dishes, calzones, salads, sandwiches, soups and desserts. At its heart, Russo’s Restaurants reflects Chef Anthony’s commitment to his New York roots where food and family come first. To learn more about Russo’s franchise development opportunities, visit https://nypizzeria.com/franchise/ .

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POPULAR RUSSO’S NEW YORK PIZZERIA LOOKING TO EXPAND TO ARIZONA

Mon, 12 Nov 2018 18:03:00 GMT

Pizzeria Franchise Plans Expansion of 15 New Restaurants with Special Incentive

HOUSTON – Russo’s New York Pizzeria, the nation’s only chef-driven New York-style, Italian restaurant and pizzeria franchise concept, is looking to bring its upscale-casual dining concept to Arizona’s Phoenix, Tempe, Chandler, Mesa and North Scottsdale markets. The well-known pizza brand recently made the Top 200+ Franchise list by Franchise Times.

Its new, fast-casual, pizza and pasta-focused concept offers a fresh approach to classic Italian dining. Russo’s will also offer a special incentive for area developers who develop 3 or more stores: Owners will receive a royalty reduction to 3% in the first year on the first location to be developed.

Chef Anthony Russo, the creative culinary mind, founder and CEO of the chef-driven concept, announced the franchise brand’s “Next Generation Pizza & Italian” restaurant model –ideal for on-the-go diners looking for authentic Italian cuisine at shopping malls, strip centers and airports.

According to Restaurant News, convenience, value and online ordering and delivery are growing consumer trends.

The new concept has a smaller footprint (1,200-1,800 square feet). The Russo’s Next Generation Pizza and Italian restaurant model features an open-kitchen layout engineered to provide convenience to diners eating in, taking to go or for delivery. The family-centered restaurant surrounds diners with warm, inviting décor to enjoy heart-healthy menu items made fresh without preservatives, additives or trans fats. Beyond the brand’s specialty traditional crust and gluten-free pizzas, menu items include fresh salads, soups and made-from-scratch sauces and pastas. Authentic Italian cannoli, fresh-baked, Italian flatbread sandwiches and, of course, hand-tossed pizzas are just some of the distinctive menu items.

“We’ve been leading the pizza and pasta scene in all of our markets for more than 32 years because we’re always bringing fresh ideas to the table. This new format meets the customer demand for fresh, quality cuisine for pick-up on the go or delivered,” said Russo, who earned his chef distinction at 18 years old and honed his expert culinary skills working in his parents fine Italian restaurant before opening his own pizzeria.

By strategically placing restaurants in high-traffic retail areas, Russo’s offers fans easier access to its beloved New York-style pizza and traditional, Italian cuisines. Russo’s latest restaurant model is representative of a larger franchise growth strategy to expand the brands’ international footprint after successfully launching more than 48 locations worldwide with an additional 15 planned for the Arizona market.

Adding to the appeal of the opportunity, the average food and hourly labor costs are 20.7% and 25.2% respectively, with an impressive average net cash flow of 18.2%.

Initial investment starts at $454,350.

Signature new menu items and authentic brick oven pizzas include the following:

Cauliflower Fritti – Fresh cauliflower, lightly fried with Italian seasoning, served with Russo’s pomodoro sauce
Russo’s Lasagna – Fresh pasta layered with braised beef, Italian cheeses and Russo’s Chianti-braised meat sauce
Pasta di Mare – Sautéed shrimp, clams, mussels and calamari, swirled in a spicy Pinot Grigio marinara sauce, served over freshly made spaghetti
Pizza Villagio – Grilled chicken, Portabella mushrooms, arugula, mozzarella, Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, Gorgonzola cheese and Sicilian extra virgin olive oil garlic sauce
Prosciutto & Fig Pizza – Prosciutto di Parma, arugula, basil, fig spread, Sicilian extra virgin olive oil, mozzarella and balsamic glaze

Lunch menu offerings range from $8 – $10 and dinner offerings range from $15 – $25.

As Russo’s continues to bring its renovated design into new markets, the brand is awarding franchise opportunities to qualified individuals who share a passion for fresh, quality food. To learn more about Russo’s franchise development opportunities and the Next Generation Pizza and Italian restaurant model, visit www.nypizzeria.com/franchise .

About Russo’s Restaurants

Russo’s Restaurants is a 48-location national and international franchisor of the fast casual and casual dining brands Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen. Based in Houston, Russo’s Restaurants is composed of a mix of corporate and franchised locations across Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Tennessee, Florida and Hawaii. Russo’s has entered international markets as well, with locations in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah. Chef Anthony Russo has created his concepts from years of applying his unique, family recipes featuring New York-style pizza, along with a broad variety of handcrafted pasta creations, calzones, salads, sandwiches, soups and desserts, reflecting his commitment to his New York roots where food and family come first.

POPULAR RUSSO’S NEW YORK PIZZERIA LOOKING TO EXPAND IN TEXAS

Mon, 12 Nov 2018 18:03:00 GMT

Pizzeria Franchise Plans Expansion of 15 New Restaurants

HOUSTON – Russo’s New York Pizzeria, the nation’s only chef-driven New York-style, Italian restaurant and pizzeria franchise concept, is looking to grow its upscale-casual dining concept in Texas’ Austin, Dallas, Fort Worth, Lubbock, Midland, Odessa and San Antonio markets. The well-known pizza brand recently made the Top 200+ Franchise list by Franchise Times.

The pizza franchise has already opened 4 locations in Texas this year: Austin, Harlingen, Pearland and Spring/Tomball.

According to Restaurant News, convenience, value and online ordering, and delivery are growing consumer trends.

Adding to the appeal of the opportunity, the average food and hourly labor costs are 20.7% and 25.2% respectively, with an impressive average net cash flow of 18.2%.

Initial investment starts at $454,350.

Signature new menu items and authentic brick oven pizzas include the following:

Cauliflower Fritti – Fresh cauliflower, lightly fried with Italian seasoning, served with Russo’s pomodoro sauce
Russo’s Lasagna – Fresh pasta layered with braised beef, Italian cheeses and Russo’s Chianti-braised meat sauce
Pasta di Mare – Sautéed shrimp, clams, mussels and calamari, swirled in a spicy Pinot Grigio marinara sauce, served over freshly made spaghetti
Pizza Villagio – Grilled chicken, Portabella mushrooms, arugula, mozzarella, Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, Gorgonzola cheese and Sicilian extra virgin olive oil garlic sauce
Prosciutto & Fig Pizza – Prosciutto di Parma, arugula, basil, fig spread, Sicilian extra virgin olive oil, mozzarella and balsamic glaze

Lunch menu offerings range from $8 – $10 and dinner offerings range from $15 – $25.

About Russo’s Restaurants

Russo’s Restaurants is a 48-location national and international franchisor of the upscale casual brands Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen. Based in Houston, Russo’s Restaurants is composed of a mix of corporate and franchised locations across Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Tennessee, and Florida. Russo’s has entered international markets as well, with locations in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah. Chef Anthony Russo has created his concepts from years of applying his unique, family recipes featuring New York-style pizza, along with a broad variety of handcrafted pasta creations, calzones, salads, sandwiches, soups and desserts, reflecting his commitment to his New York roots where food and family come first.

When pizza takes on the planet: Russo’s founder on going global with finesse

Wed, 07 Nov 2018 14:16:00 GMT

Even as New York-style pizza chain, Russo’s New York Pizzeria, begins expanding deep in the southwest, the brand’s namesake founder and chef, Anthony Russo, is celebrating the concept’s success with international audiences. The chain’s leadership said late last week, it’s planning to expand with 15 new locations in both Texas and Arizona to augment the current four restaurants in the Lone Star state, and 48 worldwide.

But with its heavy emphasis on a decidedly American take on pizza, Pizza Marketplace was interested to find out more about how the brand takes its menu to the very different cultures that exist in its seven United Arab Emirates and one Saudi Arabian locations.

Russo acknowledged that the path around the world with any restaurant brand is fraught with bumps and detours. But he and the brand’s worldwide team have not only embarked on that trip, but picked up some road knowledge along the way that they wanted to share with other brands interested in global expansion.

First and foremost for those embarking on this type of journey, Russo emphasized the absolute necessity to stay true to who you are. That means everything he said, even in wildly disparate cultures like those the brand has encountered in the Middle East.

“Brand consistency is key,” Russo said in an interview with Pizza Marketplace. “Consumers trust a brand they can recognize no matter where they visit around the world.

“Consistency equals dependability. Our guests will be served our same amazing New York Style Pizza and favorite Italian dishes from Houston, Texas to Saudi Arabia, and everywhere in between.”

But where does a brand and its leadership start when it comes to even identifying what the big hot local foods are in a new a very culturally different location? And once those “hot items” are identified, how does leadership then find ways to use them in ways that are still consistent with the brand’s approach to food?

That answer to those questions, of course, is all in good field research. There are a lot of ways to go about that kind of food fact-finding mission, but in Russo’s case, the brand relies a lot on what its chef’s impeccable tongue, adventurous approach to food and good, solid traveling research, where Russo samples the local food scene.

“This helps me get a taste of the flavors of the region,” he said. “As a chef, it gives me a chance to explore different flavors from around the world. Food brings people together. I enjoy seeing people take that first bite and can see their reaction firsthand.”

For instance, in the Middle East he said has added a new brunch menu, as well as a dessert menu.

“I have also added new menu items like our Fig and Bresaola (a form of dried, salted beef) Pizza, a Spinach and Medjool Date Calzone, and a Truffle Mushroom Risotto,” he said, adding that all the while, Middle Eastern “guests are thrilled to be able to have a taste of our authentic New York style pizza.”

And it never hurts when the man behind the brand likes the stuff on the menu enough to order it himself on a regular basis. On that count, Russo said personally, he really likes one of the daily specials offered at Middle Eastern locations, a seafood risotto that includes shrimp, clams and mussels in a spicy marinara.

As far as the plan internationally when it comes to future growth, Russo said the brand is stepping on the proverbial “gas” when it comes to expansion and that the system is growing as a result. But he said, they follow a motto of staying true to who they are by keeping the focus on great food and hospitality. That, he said, is a success strategy no matter where you are on the planet.

“Pizza will never go out of style,” he said, adding, “With family Italian recipes and authentic New York Style Pizza, there’s just not anyone like us.”

Feature photo: iStock

Inset photo: Provided

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RUSSO’S NEW YORK PIZZERIA NOW OPEN IN SPRING-TOMBALL

Fri, 02 Nov 2018 18:04:00 GMT

Multi-Unit Franchise Partner Opens New Location in Grand Parkway Marketplace

SPRING, TX – Russo’s New York Pizzeria, the only authentic New York-style, Italian restaurant and pizzeria franchise concept, is now open at Grand Parkway Marketplace. The newest location adds to the brand’s growing momentum of 48 locations worldwide.

“With new developments and houses popping up along the 99 thoroughfare we saw a need for offering a fresh, made-from-scratch dining option in this popular shopping destination. As a long-time resident of the North Houston community, we look forward to serving guests in this new part of town and expanding our support in the community through our businesses.” said Guillermo Medellin, franchise owner of now four Russo’s locations in the North Houston-area.

Blending the simplicity of a pizzeria with the freshness of an upscale Italian restaurant, Russo’s delivers a chef-driven dining experience in a fast-casual setting. At 2,200 square-feet, this Spring location offers a new and unique interior layout with an open-kitchen anchored by an impressive brick oven that can cook up to 16 pizzas at one time.

Russo’s welcomes the Spring and Tomball communities to the ceremonial ribbon cutting and official grand opening event will be at 2 p.m. Wednesday, November 28, 2018. Russo’s will be celebrating the momentous occasion by offering the community a free one-topping giant slice of pizza from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Wednesday, November 28 and Thursday, November 29, 2018 (limit one per customer, dine-in and take out only, additional toppings extra). The location will also be hosting a charity night from 4 pm – 8 pm, Tuesday, December 4 ^th where 20% of proceeds will be donated to The Pure Mutts Animal Sanctuary .

“Guillermo is such a valuable member of the Russo’s New York Pizzeria family,” said Chef Anthony Russo, CEO, founder and the creative culinary genius behind the brand. “He is the brand’s largest franchisee in Houston and his passion for restaurant operations, experience and commitment to quality makes him a great growth partner. I’m confident he will continue to carry on the Russo’s family tradition in his own community.”

Following the family mantra “If it isn’t fresh, don’t serve it!” Russo’s delivers an expansive menu that blends generations of family recipes with fresh, seasonal ingredients and authentic Italian imports like Pecorino Romano cheese from Emilia Romagna, Italy; aged-balsamic vinegar from a centuries-old vineyard in Italy; and extra virgin olive oil from Partanna, Italy.

Russo’s is passionate about menu innovation. This new Spring location is proud to introduce new menu items that are perfectly crafted to showcase fresh, high-quality ingredients, highlighting Chef Russo’s commitment to imaginative new tastes. New menu items include the new Cauliflower Fritti, Prosciutto & Fig Pizza, and the Roasted Cauliflower and Truffle Mushroom Pizza.

Russo’s New York Pizzeria in Spring is located at 6633 Spring Stuebner within the Grand Parkway Marketplace. It is open for lunch, dinner, delivery and take out Monday – Thursday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. For more information about the menu, delivery, takeout, catering, or to order online, please visit www.nypizzeria.com or call (832) 761-9900.

About Russo’s Restaurants

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Pizza brands ‘fall’ for seasonal specials

Wed, 24 Oct 2018 14:19:00 GMT

One of the most innovative times of year is upon us for the pizza universe, with everything from colder weather and football, to Halloween and the start of the winter holidays propelling brands’ most creative marketing maneuvers.

Veg out with PizzaRev

Some of this week’s brands testing the seasonal special waters include PizzaRev, which has launched its Cold Weather initiatives with a capital “C,” as in cauliflower. The brand is offering a Caulipower pizza crust with a very veg-ified pizza this fall featuring basil pesto sauce, oven-roasted cauliflower, goat cheese crumbles, shredded mozzarella, cherry tomatoes and sliced onions on the cauliflower-containing crust this autumn, according to a news release.

The brand will serve the pizza at its 40-plus restaurants nationwide, along with its other varieties.

“Years ago, no one could’ve imagined a pizza crust made from cauliflower,” said CMO Renae Scott in the release. “Beyond the nutritional benefits of the new crust, we find the innovation to be inspiring, and hope our guests and employees also catch that feeling of motivation.”

The pizzas feature the Caulipower-brand crust and are the focus of a newly launched co-branded digital media campaign that invites customers to make their own pizza combinations with the crust.

Russo’s says ‘go big or go home’ this Halloween

This week at Russo’s New York Pizzeria the brand launched it 28-inch Giant Party Pizza that feeds up to 10 people, according to a press release. Halloween is a huge pizza-ordering holiday, of course, and the product is meant to address that demand.

Papa Murphy’s pizzas dress up as pumpkins

At take-and-bake brand Papa Murphy’s, the order of the day is its Jack-O-Lantern Pizza, or just “Jack-O” for the customers who’ve come to love him/it.

The carved pumpkin-looking pies are available as LTOs through the big day, Oct. 31 in both large and family sizes, according to a press release. The brand is also promoting its “Scream of a Deal” offer that gives all those who buy a “Jack-O” the option to also order a pound of made-from-scratch, ready-to-bake chocolate chip cookie dough for $3.

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RUSSO’S NEW YORK PIZZERIA SET TO OPEN SEVENTH DUBAI LOCATION IN OCTOBER

Fri, 28 Sep 2018 18:05:00 GMT

New York-style pizzeria and Italian restaurant concept offers franchise opportunities; looking to continue growth in Middle East, Europe and Asia

DUBAI, UAE – Russo’s New York Pizzeria, the only authentic New York-style, Italian restaurant and pizzeria franchise concept, is set to open its seventh location in Dubai in October. The restaurant located in the Springs Souk shopping centre will feature the restaurant’s updated casual dining layout that includes an open-kitchen concept and pizza chef station for guests to watch Russo’s chefs prepare their hand-tossed pizzas and homemade meals fresh from scratch. The new design also allows the convenience for guests to choose take-out or delivery.

“We are excited to offer Dubai families, friends and business associates a seventh location for authentic New York-style pizzeria and Italian,” said Anthony Russo, Founder and CEO, Russo’s New York Pizzeria. “Blending the simplicity of a pizzeria with the freshness of an upscale Italian restaurant, we deliver a chef-driven dining experience in a fast-casual setting that is unlike any other restaurant in the UAE.”

Russo’s is passionate about menu innovation. The restaurant is proud to introduce new menu items that are perfectly crafted to showcase fresh, high-quality ingredients, highlighting Chef Russo’s commitment to imaginative new tastes. New pizza and gourmet pasta menu items include the Truffle Mushroom pizza, Italian Meat Lovers pizza, Spicy Chicken Alfredo, Homemade Lasagna, and a great selection of gluten free menu items. Chef Anthony has perfected the Dubai menu to adapt to Middle East favorites and will feature fresh, local seafood, Halal meats, risotto and saffron, truffle mushroom soup, eggplant pizza, gnocchi pasta and Mediterranean-influenced dips and spreads.

Russo’s New York Pizzeria is looking to increase growth internationally, specifically in the Middle East, Europe and Asia.

“There is a huge appetite for our brand and together with our talented franchise partners we are accelerating our global growth,” said Russo. “The franchise opportunity is proving to be lucrative for our current international franchisees and we are excited for their continued success.”

Russo’s Restaurants offers a rare franchise opportunity for entrepreneurs interested in proven brands that are entirely chef created, chef inspired, and chef driven. Russo’s New York Pizzeria is the only authentic New York-style, Italian restaurant and pizzeria franchise concept. Beyond consumer convenience, Russo’s is leading the fast-casual Italian dining category by creating a business model that offers:

A smaller footprint (120 – 350 square meters) for less overhead
A low-cost entry into the restaurant business with an initial investment starting around $395,000 USD in select markets

Visit Chef Anthony Russo at The Hotel Show Dubai trade show September 16 – 18 at the Dubai World Trade Centre to learn more about franchise development in the Middle East. The company will be represented at Stand DF51 in Hall 2. On September 17 from 3:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m., Chef Anthony Russo will be in the Chefs Culinary section conducting a cooking demo of Russo New York Pizzeria’s Italian favorites.

About Russo’s Restaurants

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RUSSO’S NEW YORK PIZZERIA NOW OPEN IN PEARLAND

Fri, 28 Sep 2018 18:05:00 GMT

Longtime Franchise Partner Launches New Interior Prototype and Menu Items in Pearland Town Center

PEARLAND, TX – Russo’s New York Pizzeria, the only authentic New York-style, Italian restaurant and pizzeria franchise concept, is now open at Pearland Town Center. The Pearland location adds to the brand’s growing momentum of 47 locations located both domestically and internationally.

“Opening a Russo’s in Pearland just made sense for myself and the brand. I frequent this area and realized we didn’t have a restaurant that compares to our authentic New York-style pizza & Italian kitchen,” said Sam Farouz, franchise owner of both the new Pearland location and the Marq-E Entertainment Complex off Interstate 10. “Every dish on our menu – whether its pizza or pasta – is handcrafted and made with fresh, high quality ingredients. We’re honored to bring the Russo’s difference to Pearland.”

Blending the simplicity of a pizzeria with the freshness of an upscale Italian restaurant, Russo’s delivers a chef-driven dining experience in a fast-casual setting. At 2,900 square-feet, the Pearland location presents a new and unique interior layout that features an open-kitchen anchored by an impressive brick oven at the entrance that can cook up to 16 pizzas at one time. Russo’s opened on July 16, and welcomes the Pearland community to the ceremonial ribbon cutting and official grand opening event on Thursday, September 6 at 10:30 a.m. Russo’s will be celebrating the momentous day by offering the community a free one-topping giant slice of pizza from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 6 and Friday, September 7 (limit one per customer, dine-in and take out only, additional toppings extra).

“Sam is such a valuable, longstanding member of the Russo’s New York Pizzeria family,” said Chef Anthony Russo, CEO, founder and the creative culinary genius behind the brand. “His passion for restaurant operations, experience and commitment to quality makes him a great growth partner. I’m confident Sam will continue to carry on the Russo’s family tradition in Pearland.”

Russo’s is passionate about menu innovation. The Pearland location is proud to introduce new menu items that are perfectly crafted to showcase fresh, high-quality ingredients, highlighting Chef Russo’s commitment to imaginative new tastes. New menu items include the new Cauliflower Fritti, Truffle Mushroom Ravioli, Prosciutto & Fig Pizza, and the Roasted Cauliflower and Pancetta Pizza.

Russo’s New York Pizzeria in Pearland is located at 11200 Broadway, Suite #635 within the Pearland Town Center. It is open for lunch, dinner, delivery and takeaway Monday – Thursday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. For more information about the menu, delivery, takeout, catering, or to order online, please visit www.nypizzeria.com or call (281) 272-6898.

About Russo’s Restaurants

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Bigger piece of the pie

Sun, 09 Sep 2018 14:20:00 GMT

Bigger piece of the pie

Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Italian Kitchen

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Grand Opening | Russo’s New York Pizzeria Pearland | Best Pizza Franchise

Wed, 01 Aug 2018 20:31:00 GMT

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Russo’s New York Pizzeria Strengthens its Presence in the Houston Area with Opening in Pearland

Mon, 30 Jul 2018 18:06:00 GMT

Multi-Unit Franchisee Opens at Premium Lifestyle, Dining and Shopping Development – Pearland Town Center

PEARLAND, Texas – Houston’s own Russo’s New York Pizzeria, the only authentic New York-style, Italian restaurant and pizzeria franchise concept, is now open in Pearland.

The location, which officially opened Monday, July 16, invites Pearland residents, commuters and visitors to savor the unmistakable tastes and ambiance of the chef-created, chef-inspired and chef-driven fast casual restaurant. Offering dine-in, takeout, delivery, and catering, Russo’s New York Pizzeria is passionate about menu innovation.

Russo’s New York Pizzeria in Pearland, which is located in Pearland Town Center at 11200 Broadway, Suite #635, joins more than 20 additional Russo’s Restaurants locations open in the Houston market.

“After the success of my first Russo’s location, opening a second location in the bustling Pearland Town Center was a strategic move that made sense for both myself and the brand,” said Sam Farouz, local resident and long-time owner of the Russo’s New York Pizzeria at the Marq-E Entertainment Complex in Houston. “Russo’s is popular here in Houston, across the country and abroad because every dish on our menu, whether it’s pizza or pasta, is handcrafted and made with fresh, top-notch ingredients. You’d be hard-pressed to find this type of authenticity at any other pizza restaurant in the area – and we’re honored to bring the Russo’s difference to Pearland.”

The inviting restaurant offers a full menu of authentic New York-style pizza and Italian dishes. Featuring a collection of wide, flat screen televisions and an open kitchen environment with a high-top pizza bar, Pearland’s new Russo’s New York Pizzeria is open for lunch and dinner with an extensive catering menu available, as well. The restaurant blends the freshness of fine ingredients with the magic created around a handcrafted Italian meal.

Farouz has been a member of the Russo’s New York Pizzeria family for decades, starting as a guest and then becoming a franchisee in 2003. He first fell in love with the food, and was then attracted to the franchise opportunity and culture associated with the Russo’s brand.

“Sam is such a valuable, longstanding member of the Russo’s Restaurants family,” said Chef Anthony Russo, CEO, founder and the creative culinary genius behind the brand. “His passion for restaurant operations, experience and commitment to quality makes him a great growth partner for Russo’s New York Pizzeria. I’m confident Sam will continue to carry on the Russo’s family tradition in Pearland.”

Russo’s New York Pizzeria garners a cult-like following for its truly authentic and delicious Italian dishes that trace their origins to a tight-knit family where the kitchen was the center of activity. Every dish is made from the freshest ingredients that are all natural with no preservatives, no additives and zero trans-fats, including its New York-style pizza. Chef Russo’s family promise, “If it isn’t fresh, don’t serve it!” is the mantra of each and every franchisee who is certified under the Russo’s brand operating criteria.

Russo’s recently announced the introduction of several creative new menu items. These new Italian inspired dishes blend generations of Russo family recipes with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Russo’s New York Pizzeria uses only the highest-quality and authentic ingredients. The restaurants import Pecorino Romano cheese from Emilia Romagna, Italy, aged-balsamic vinegar from a centuries-old vineyard in Italy, and, extra virgin olive oil from Partanna, Italy. Russo’s New York Pizzeria menu options are available at www.nypizzeria.com . For more information about the Pearland location, call (281) 272-6898.

About Russo’s Restaurants

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Unique Ingredients and Gourmet Flavors Shake Up Russo’s New York Pizzeria’s Summer Menu

Mon, 30 Jul 2018 18:06:00 GMT

Chef Anthony Russo Introduces New Menu Items, Focuses on Traditional Favorites and Shares the Art of Authentic Italian Cuisine

HOUSTON – “If it isn’t fresh, don’t serve it!” – that’s the Russo’s New York Pizzeria promise. The brand’s commitment to fresh, made-from-scratch food is the driving force behind its recently introduced menu items, which burst with new and exceptional flavors.

Chef Anthony Russo, founder and CEO of Russo’s New York Pizzeria and the brand’s creative culinary mind, announced today the introduction of several creative new menu items. These new Italian inspired dishes blend generations of Russo family recipes with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Russo’s New York Pizzeria uses only the highest-quality and authentic ingredients. The restaurant imports Pecorino Romano cheese from Emilia Romagna, Italy, aged-balsamic vinegar from a centuries-old vineyard in Italy, and, extra virgin olive oil from Partanna, Italy. The restaurant’s new menu items build on that commitment to authenticity.

“High-quality, authentic ingredients are the key to making sensational food – and if that requires going the extra mile and sourcing items from around the world, we do it,” said Chef Russo. “The new dishes on our menu, which include 100-year-old family recipes, feature nutrient-rich ingredients that focus on authentic favorites with a healthy twist. We’re excited to bring these fresh flavors to our loyal following. The new items will complement our existing dishes perfectly.”

Russo’s New York Pizzeria – which offers dine-in, takeout, delivery, and catering – is passionate about menu innovation. The new appetizer, salad, signature entrée and five pizzas are perfectly crafted to showcase fresh, high-quality ingredients, highlighting Chef Russo’s commitment to imaginative new tastes.

Cauliflower Fritti – Fresh cauliflower, lightly fried with Italian seasoning, served with Russo’s pomodoro sauce
Chicken Avocado Salad – Grilled chicken, romaine lettuce, sliced avocado, arugula, kalamata olives, Roma tomatoes, feta cheese, cucumber and pepperoncini served with honey mustard dressing
Sicilian Trio – Russo’s lasagna, fettuccine and alfredo and handmade gnocchi pesto
Cauliflower Pizza – Roasted cauliflower, smoked pancetta ham, Italian sausage, Portabella mushrooms, mozzarella cheese and Sicilian extra virgin olive oil garlic sauce
Pizza Villagio – Grilled chicken, Portabella mushrooms, arugula, mozzarella, Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, Gorgonzola cheese and Sicilian extra virgin olive oil garlic sauce
Bianca Pizza – Buffalo mozzarella, prosciutto di Parma, fresh arugula, mozzarella cheese and Sicilian extra virgin olive oil garlic sauce
Prosciutto & Fig Pizza – Prosciutto di Parma, arugula, basil, fig spread, Sicilian extra virgin olive oil, mozzarella and balsamic glaze
Truffle Mushroom Pizza – Fresh Portabella mushrooms, mozzarella cheese and truffle olive oil sauce, topped with fresh arugula

The new chef-driven menu items are now on display at NYPizzeria.com .

“We are committed to staying ahead of dining trends,” said Chef Russo. “It’s a joy to be able to create new dishes and pizza varieties for our life-long fans.”

In 1978 he family opened its first Russo’s restaurant, and the brand’s commitment to quality has been second-to-none for more than 40 years. Russo’s New York Pizzeria uses only all-natural flour and hand rolls and proofs its dough daily in its restaurants.

Russo’s New York Pizzeria and its traditional Italian recipes trace their origins to a tight-knit family where the kitchen was the center of activity. The restaurant is renowned for its show-stopping classics, such as homemade lasagna, authentic New York-style pizza, handcrafted alfredo, marinara, marsala and pesto sauces, pasta a la vodka, eggplant parmesan and pasta di mare.

Russo’s Restaurants offers a rare franchise opportunity for entrepreneurs interested in an established brand that is entirely chef-created, chef-inspired and chef-driven. Russo’s New York Pizzeria is the only authentic New York-style, Italian restaurant and pizzeria franchise concept. To learn more, please visit, www.russosfranchise.com .

About Russo’s Restaurants

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Chef Anthony Russo’s Brings the Magic of a New York Pizzeria to Homes Across Texas

Mon, 16 Jul 2018 18:07:00 GMT

Innovative New Varieties of Handmade Premium Frozen Pizzas Now Available at Nearly 600 Grocery Stores Statewide

HOUSTON – Chef Anthony Russo’s , the Texas-based retail line behind the world-famous Russo’s New York Pizzeria restaurant chain, has partnered with major grocers, including Kroger, H-E-B, and Randalls, to bring its fresh, handmade and artisanal frozen pizzas to more than 600 grocery stores in Texas. The partnerships will allow shoppers across the state to enjoy the innovative, fresh flavors synonymous with the Russo’s brand in their own homes.

Chef Anthony Russo’s has revolutionized the frozen pizza category by delivering a great tasting and quality-driven pizza to the frozen foods aisle. The innovative creations include:

Chicken Rustica – Topped with grilled white chicken, fresh Roma tomatoes, fresh spinach, feta and mozzarella cheeses, olive oil and garlic sauce.
Mulberry – Made with authentic Italian sausage, perfectly spiced pepperoni, Canadian bacon, crumbled beef, mozzarella cheese and full-flavored pizza sauce.
Margherita – A classic-style pizza made with fresh Roma tomatoes, basil, olive oil and premium mozzarella cheese.
New York-Style Cheese – Classic New York-style thin crust cheese pizza with house-made pizza sauce, mozzarella cheese and Italian seasoning.
Pepperoni – New York-style thin-crust pizza loaded with pepperoni, shredded mozzarella cheese and Chef Russo’s house-made sauce.
Greek Pizza – Fresh spinach, juicy Roma tomatoes, Italian black olives, fresh feta and mozzarella cheeses, garlic and extra virgin olive oil.

“Frozen pizza shouldn’t compromise flavor, which is why we prepare our products by hand using the same quality, ingredients and methods as we do in our restaurants,” said Chef Anthony Russo, founder and CEO of Russo’s Restaurants and the creative mastermind for the retail line. “Our recent partnerships with the largest grocers in Texas allow us to bring the unmistakable, better-tasting Russo’s pizza experience to the homes of our lifelong fans and neighbors. We want to make great pizza available to all and these partnerships allow us to do just that.”

Chef Anthony Russo’s products offer diverse and extraordinary flavors, reflecting the brand’s commitment to delivering top-of-the-line frozen pizza with fresh (never pre-frozen), high-quality restaurant-grade ingredients. The pizzas contain no additives, preservatives, artificial flavors, nitrates, rSBT or rennet. Handcrafted with Russo’s family recipe since 1978, each pizza uses premium 100 percent mozzarella cheese, Chef Anthony’s sauce made with fresh-packed Roma tomatoes and extra virgin olive oil imported from the Russo family olive grove in Sicily.

Each of the New York-style pizzas, all of which are gluten-free, is handcrafted with the finest ingredients to ensure quality that lives up to the Russo Family Promise. They were perfected over a span of six months in Chef Anthony’s private kitchen, which included crafting a great tasting authentic, New York-style crust that is unmatched in quality. Chef Anthony Russo’s commitment to quality will not only delight consumers, it also positions the brand to revolutionize the frozen foods space.

While Chef Anthony’s desire to provide gluten-free options to diners is evident, he also has a true passion for supporting the Celiac community. Celiac disease, the inherited autoimmune disorder that affects the digestive process of the small intestine, affects 1 in 133 people making United States the largest gluten-free market globally.

Russo’s is responding to the demand for gluten-free products with a variety of frozen pizzas – the same pizzas made from high-quality ingredients that are sold in its more than 45 restaurants worldwide – that far exceed the quality of your everyday frozen pizza, and any other gluten-free pizza found in the frozen section of grocery stores. With six delicious pizza options – some vegetarian – there’s something for everyone.

Chef Anthony Russo’s all natural, gluten-free pizza has been called one of the “Cleanest Packaged Foods” by Prevention Magazine . Additionally, Muscle and Fitness Magazine named it as the “Nutrition Edge Food of the Month.”

A family-owned business since 1978, Chef Russo’s recipes are handcrafted, authentic and personal to his Italian roots. The Russo’s family promise, “If it isn’t fresh, don’t serve it,” has been at the heart of Russo’s New York Pizzeria, the restaurant concept Chef Anthony Russo first opened more than 25 years ago and is now successfully franchising globally.

Russo’s Restaurants is a national and international franchisor of the fast casual dining brand Russo’s New York Pizzeria. Based in Houston, Russo’s Restaurants is composed of a mix of corporate and franchised locations across Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Tennessee, Florida and Hawaii. Russo’s has entered international markets as well, with locations in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah, in the United Arab Emirates.

For more details, visit www.russosretail.com .

About Chef Anthony Russo’s Retail

Chef Anthony Russo’s retail products reflect the brand’s authentic Italian roots and passion for freshness and quality. Available at more than 3,000 retailers nationwide, including Kroger TX, H-E-B, Ingles, Smart and Final, Alberstons TX, Fairways Market, and Randall’s, Chef Anthony Russo’s all natural, gluten-free pizza has been called one of the “Cleanest Packaged Foods” by Prevention Magazine . Chef Anthony Russo perfected his New York-style, thin crust gluten-free recipe over a span of two years using the finest and freshest Italian ingredients.

For more information and to find products near you, visit www.russosretail.com .

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Franchising Magnate Jeff Moosa Adds Russo’s Restaurants to Portfolio; Acquires Richardson Location

Fri, 13 Jul 2018 18:09:00 GMT

Deal Signed with Prominent Restaurateur Zafar “Jeff” Moosa to Expand Brand’s Texas Footprint

RICHARDSON, Texas – Russo’s Restaurants announced today a development deal with distinguished franchising entrepreneur Zafar “Jeff” Moosa. Backed with more than 30 years of experience in the restaurant franchising industry, Moosa adds the Russo’s name to his portfolio through the acquisition of the Richardson, Texas Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen, located at 700 E Campbell Rd. Through the agreement, he will also significantly expand Russo’s Restaurants’ Texas footprint across Dallas, Fort Worth and San Antonio.

Chef Anthony Russo, the brand’s creative culinary mind, founder and CEO of Russo’s Restaurants, the multi-brand franchisor of both Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen and Russo’s New York Pizzeria, inked the agreement with Moosa. Moosa’s restaurant franchise investments and operations also include several Taco Bell, Captain D’s and Golden Chick locations. He’s also a former franchisee of Jack in the box and Church’s Chicken.

“Our current pace of growth in Texas – and beyond – is unprecedented for our brands,” said Russo, who has 40 years of culinary expertise featuring fresh, homemade Italian cuisine using family recipes. “With Jeff’s business acumen behind the Russo’s brand, we are equipped to introduce our concepts to more families, friends and business associates. In addition to Jeff’s recent investment, we’re seeing tremendous interest and growth this year with franchising partners in the U.S. and internationally.”

Russo’s Restaurants offers a rare franchise opportunity for entrepreneurs like Moosa interested in proven brands that are entirely chef driven. Beyond consumer convenience, Russo’s is leading the Italian dining category by creating a business model that offers:

A smaller footprint (1,500 – 3,500 sq. ft.) for less overhead
A low-cost entry into the restaurant business with an initial investment starting around $395,000 in select markets
A focus on fresh ingredients to subtract additional supply costs for preservatives and packaging, and also to meet consumer’s demand for quality food
Online ordering, takeout and free delivery options for added customer value

Recently, Chef Anthony shook up the restaurant industry and strengthened his brands’ franchise opportunity by introducing the “Next Generation Pizza & Italian” restaurant model–ideal for on-the-go diners looking for authentic Italian cuisine at shopping malls, strip centers and airports.

The restaurant design and environment blends the freshness of a fine Italian restaurant with the magic created around a homemade Italian meal. Plus, the unique, open kitchen design and one-of-a-kind pizza bar provides guests with the chance to enjoy watching Russo’s chefs prepare their hand-tossed pizzas and homemade meals fresh from scratch and to take in the aromas of authentic Italian cooking.

Moosa continues Russo’s initiative to open dozens of locations across Texas. The family-focused original Italian concept has established itself as a Texas-favorite through its growing presence across the state, especially in large cities such as Houston, Austin, San Antonio and Dallas. In 2018, the brand’s key development focus in Texas is on the Dallas and Fort Worth territories in addition to three in-state openings, one in Austin and two in Houston. For more information on Russo’s available territories in Texas, please visit the link below.

Beyond Texas, the brand also has a U.S. franchising focus throughout key markets including Florida, the Northeast and the middle section of the country. Internationally, key growth territories include the Middle East, Asia and Western Europe.

To learn more about the Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen in Richardson, visit https://russosrichardson.com . For more on Russo’s franchise development opportunities, visit https://russosfranchise.com , or call Chef Anthony Russo at (832) 477-7597.

About Russo’s Restaurants

Russo’s Restaurants is a national and international franchisor of the fast casual and casual dining brands Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen. Based in Houston, Russo’s Restaurants is composed of a mix of corporate and franchised locations across Texas, Oklahoma, Tennessee, and Florida. Russo’s has entered international markets as well, with locations in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah, in the United Arab Emirates. Chef Anthony Russo created Russo’s Restaurants by applying his unique, family recipes featuring New York-style pizza, and by developing a broad variety of handcrafted pasta dishes, calzones, salads, sandwiches, soups and desserts. At its heart, Russo’s Restaurants reflects Chef Anthony’s commitment to his New York roots where food and family come first. To learn more about Russo’s franchise development opportunities in the Middle East, visit www.russosfranchise.com .

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Russo’s New York Pizzeria Kicks Off Fundraiser for Life-Saving Cancer Research

Fri, 13 Jul 2018 18:08:00 GMT

Authentic New York-style Pizza Restaurant Launches Brand-wide Fundraising Campaign to Benefit Leukemia & Lymphoma Society

HOUSTON – For the next couple months, Russo’s New York Pizzeria restaurants throughout the region are banding together in support of 1.3 million Americans living with blood cancer.

From January 19-March 1, participating pizzerias are rallying their diners to donate an additional $1 to their bill. The goal is to cure blood cancer once and for all. 100 percent of donations collected at Russo’s will go to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) toward research and assistance programs aimed at helping those with leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease and myeloma live longer, healthier lives.

“Countless loved ones, including members of my own family, have been struck with cancer and have battled through the hardship,” said Chef Anthony Russo, founder and CEO. “My heart breaks to see people close to me suffer through this terrible disease, so we’re doing everything we can to support LLS’s live-saving research. And how do you cure cancer? You donate.”

Russo’s New York Pizzeria’s fundraising initiative runs parallel to the LLS’s Student of the Year campaign—a philanthropic development program that calls upon the most engaged high-school students and provides them an opportunity to plan and implement their own fundraising campaign for people who have blood cancers and are survivors. Russo’s New York Pizzeria is sponsoring one of the Houston-area students, Anson Moore, by hosting the brand-wide fundraiser to amplify the donation efforts. Donations to the LLS Student of the Year campaign can be made here: https://events.lls.org/txg/HoustonSOY2018/amoore .

What started as a family-owned establishment in Houston in 1992, Russo’s New York Pizzeria features a full menu of authentic New York-style pizza and Italian dishes, blending the freshness of fine ingredients with the magic of a handcrafted Italian meal. Beyond the brand’s specialty traditional crust and gluten-free pizzas, menu items include fresh salads, soups and made-from-scratch sauces and pastas: authentic Italian cannoli, fresh-baked, Italian flatbread sandwiches and, of course, hand-tossed pizzas are just some of the distinctive menu items.

For more information on Russo’s New York Pizzeria, visit www.nypizzeria.com . And for more information on The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, visit www.lls.org .

About Russo’s Restaurants

Russo’s Restaurants is a national and international franchisor of the fast casual and casual dining brands Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen. Based in Houston, Russo’s Restaurants is composed of a mix of corporate and franchised locations across Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Tennessee, Florida and Hawaii. Russo’s has entered international markets as well, with locations in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates: Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah. Chef Anthony Russo has created his concepts from years of applying his unique, family recipes featuring New York-style pizza, along with a broad variety of handcrafted pasta creations, calzones, salads, sandwiches, soups and desserts, reflecting his commitment to his New York roots where food and family come first. To learn more about Russo’s franchise development opportunities visit www.russosfranchise.com or call us at 1.855.978.7767.

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Entrepreneur Magazine Named Russo’s Restaurant Top 200 Food and Restaurant Franchises of 2018

Fri, 13 Jul 2018 18:08:00 GMT

Russo’s New York Pizzeria Ranked #24 in Full-service Restaurants

HOUSTON – Russo’s New York Pizzeria was recently ranked number 24 on Entrepreneur “Top 200 Food and Restaurant Franchises List of 2018”.

This prestigious ranking reflects the substantial growth the company has seen in the past year. Further, the ranking comes just as the brand premieres its innovative new menu that blends generations of Russo family Italian recipes with fresh quality ingredients.

“We’re honored to be included in Entrepreneur’s prestigious Top 200 ranking for the second year in a row. It validates the drive, commitment to quality and innovation behind Russo’s Restaurants,” said Chef Anthony Russo, CEO and founder of Russo’s Restaurants. “This ranking is a testament to the support, strength and success of our brand.”

The key factors that go into Entrepreneur ’s evaluation include costs and fees, size, growth, support, brand value, and financial strength and stability. All franchises are given a cumulative score based on more than 150 data points, and the 500 franchises with the highest cumulative scores become the Franchise 500 ^® in ranking order. The Top 200 rankings are based on the score each company received when evaluated by the Franchise 500® formula.

“We spend months gathering and crunching data in order to produce the Franchise 500 ranking. We’re proud of the result and the way it continues to be a resource for the franchise community,” says Jason Feifer, editor in chief of Entrepreneur . “Like every industry, franchising is ever-evolving and must smartly react to new technologies and consumer demands. We know it takes a lot to stay competitive, and are excited to celebrate those that do it best.”

Russo’s New York Pizzeria garners a cult-like following for its truly authentic and delicious Italian dishes made from the freshest ingredients, and its New York-style pizza. The restaurants blend premium recipes with the freshest ingredients that are all natural with no preservatives, no additives and zero trans-fats. Chef Russo’s family promise, “If it isn’t fresh, don’t serve it!” is the mantra of each and every franchisee who is certified under the Russo’s brand operating criteria.

To view Russo’s New York Pizzeria in the full ranking, visit: https://www.entrepreneur.com/article/313513

To learn more about Russo’s New York, visit: https://nypizzeria.com .

About Russo’s Restaurants

Russo’s Restaurants is a national and international franchisor of the fast casual and casual dining brand Russo’s New York Pizzeria. Based in Houston, Russo’s Restaurants is composed of a mix of corporate and franchised locations across Texas, Oklahoma, Tennessee, and Florida. Russo’s has entered international markets as well, with locations in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah, in the United Arab Emirates. Chef Anthony Russo created Russo’s Restaurants by applying his unique, family recipes featuring New York-style pizza, and by developing a broad variety of handcrafted pasta dishes, calzones, salads, sandwiches, soups and desserts. At its heart, Russo’s Restaurants reflects Chef Anthony’s commitment to his New York roots where food and family come first. To learn more about Russo’s franchise development opportunities in the Middle East, visit www.russosfranchise.com .

To learn more about Russo’s franchise development opportunities, visit www.nypizzeria.com .

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Texasfoodgawker

Mon, 21 May 2018 14:22:00 GMT

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What is a franchise fee?

Fri, 18 May 2018 14:26:00 GMT

The money that franchisees invest in the proprietary franchising system is what is known as the franchise fee. The fee essentially grants entrepreneurs the rights to operate an independent location of that franchise at a certain location under the brand name. Paying the upfront franchise fee unlocks the door to the franchisors’ proprietary business systems and more.

Franchising fees in the fast casual and casual dining segment vary widely and can range from around $25K to upwards of $50K. Russo’s New York Pizzeria franchise fee is $39,500 for a single unit or discounted to $29,500 per location in an area development. Or in some cases, a franchisor may offer a Master Franchise or Area Development, which allows a franchisee to license more than one location. Franchisees typically pay an initial franchising fee to cover upfront transfer of proprietary materials and to get the business started. Once the business is launched, franchisees may also pay an ongoing royalty fee which is payment to the franchisor for continued use of proprietary materials, the investment in research and development, new business strategies, and continued national and regional marketing materials.

The franchise fee amount even within one casual dining segment can vary depending on the kind of model the entrepreneur is looking to buy from a low footprint model to a higher end experience.

A few franchisors might dangle the promise of decreased franchise fees as way of luring franchisees into signing on the dotted line but in franchising, as in everything else, you get what you pay for. Russo’s franchise fee is $49,500 and in turn franchisees get to a part of the best restaurant franchise.

The Russo’s franchise fee, which varies between $29,500 and $39,500, covers a whole assortment of valuable services that help businesses get on the right track. Russo’s franchise fees includes help with site selection, access to marketing materials and proprietary recipes, extensive training onsite and off, front-of-house (FOH) and back-of-house (BOH) operations and staffing and additional valuable business strategies.

Russo’s is leading the Italian dining category by creating a business model that offers:
A smaller footprint (1,500-3,500 sq. ft.) for less overhead
A low-cost entry into the restaurant business with an initial investment starting around $454,350 in select markets
Average food costs and labor costs are 20.7% and 25.2% respectively*
Average sales volume per franchised unit is $ $988,401*

You get what you pay for when it comes to franchising

The Italian restaurant franchise has been tweaking its recipes and procedures for more than 30 years. Additionally, Russo’s franchisees are our partners and are like family, and by buying into the system, they bring an additional degree of commitment to building the brand from the ground up.

The Russo’s franchise fee includes:
Access to marketing materials, recipes, handboooks
Help with site selection and lease negotiation
Business advice
Architect consultant for buildout
Lists for furnishing, decor, lighting, kitchen ordering, and inventory
Help with developing soft and grand opening timelines
Extensive training at home office and on-location training for two weeks once the new restaurant is built
Training in 100+ year old recipes, the “secret sauce” of Russo’s product
FOH & BOH operations and staffing
Assistance with benchmarking and consultation on business plan
Help with grand opening marketing and PR plan

Investing into a ground-floor opportunities is one of the most exciting aspects being a Russo’s franchisees. The owners are investing in great food, and also in the potential to have a prominent seat at the table as the restaurant franchise makes rapid inroads into new territories in the near future. Being a part of an emerging brand like Russo’s is a great way for passionate entrepreneurs to channel their expertise into a venture that’s slated for rapid growth.

Franchise fees that go above and beyond

With the franchise fees, franchisees access extensive suite of marketing materials, recipes and handbooks. Site selection is an important component of business success and Russo’s experienced real estate team goes out, tours the area, reviews and approves the franchisee’s site. Because the Italian restaurant franchise has decades of experience with these procedures, Russo’s helps franchisees hone their business specifically for their market.. Russo’s also helps with lease negotiation and analyzes demographic trends in the area so franchisees can fine tune their business strategies.

With Russo’s, franchisees also get training on every aspect of the restaurant business from front-of-house to back-of-house operations to marketing and public relations. The Italian restaurant franchise supports its franchise partners with every kind of material and training and ongoing support needed to truly build a successful location. Given that the cost of consultants for each aspect of routine business operations is extremely steep, the Russo’s franchise fee is a true bargain as it gives franchisees a proven formula and access to consulting and strategies to make the system work.

Hot concept in demand

Equally important, the demand for a pizza franchise like Russo’s is skyrocketing. The fast-casual concept that Russo’s is based on is growing at a steady clip. A Technomic report showed that the industry grew by 8.1 percent in 2016. Of that, pizza is currently the largest sector at 37 percent.

The Russo’s Italian restaurant franchise is spearheaded by experienced team members who know what it takes to win a significant slice of the industry. Rex Street, Director of Operations, Kyle Dennis, Sous Chef Trainer, and Lynn Zeller-Aldana, Sr. Director of Training and Development, are just few of Russo’s staff who routinely share their expertise for franchisee success.

At the end of the day, you get what you pay for when it comes to franchising. Russo’s franchising fees cover every aspect of the fast-casual restaurant business and gives its franchisee partners a comprehensive arsenal of tools to ensure long-lasting success in a market where demand for quality food continues unabated.

Visit Russo’s Restaurants to learn more about what it means to become a franchisee.

* These figures represent the average restaurant revenue of six (6) U.S. domestic Company-operated Russo’s New York Pizzeria locations of various designs and sizes for fiscal year ending December 31, 2016, along with average Food Costs and Net Income for the six (6) U.S. domestic Company-operated Russo’s New York Pizzeria outlets only. Actual results could vary substantially from unit to unit and Franchisor cannot estimate the results of any particular franchise

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Russo’s New York Pizzeria Opens In Cedar Park

Sun, 01 Apr 2018 14:21:00 GMT

Russo’s New York Pizzeria, one of the most iconic, authentic New York pizzerias in the Lone Star State, is now open in Cedar Park. The location , which officially opened Monday, March 19, offers authentic New York-style pizzeria.

The popular, chef driven, fast casual Italian restaurant — “that brings to life old-world charm and hospitality,” officials described — is located within the Cypress Creek Plaza at 1320 Cypress Creek Rd. Suite #120 . Russo’s Cedar Park location is one of three locations now open in the Austin area, including an existing spot in Pflugerville.

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Meet Chef Anthony Russo at the AAHOA Convention & Trade Show

Wed, 28 Mar 2018 14:27:00 GMT

You’re invited to meet Chef Anthony Russo, the creative culinary mind, founder and CEO of chef-driven concepts Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen, at the Asian American Hotel Owners Association (AAHOA) Convention & Trade Show.

Chef Anthony Russo will be meeting with interested and qualified investors while at the AAHOA Convention & Trade Show (Booth 788).

The event will be held at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center in National Harbor, Maryland from March 27-30.

Prospective franchisees are welcome to sample Russo’s Italian cuisines and learn a bit more about Russo’s three compelling franchise models: Russo’s New York Pizzeria, Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen and Russo’s Next Generation Pizza & Italian. These adaptable models have the flexibility to be added to hotels as a value-add for savvy hotel owners.

Especially attractive to investors looking to add value to their hotels is the full-service Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen concept. Upscale and chic, the restaurant’s dark wood interior and large coal-fired oven lend a cozy, classy feel for customers to enjoy a glass of wine and an authentic Italian meal.

The time is now to grab your very own slice of the $45 billion pizza industry. According to PMQ , both the US and worldwide pizza markets have grown from 2016 to 2017, with even more growth projected in 2018. Even better, the study found that average unit sales are on the rise as well, making it a great time to invest in a pizza franchise such as Russo’s.

Russo’s Restaurants have garnered a cult-like following for its truly authentic and delicious Italian dishes made from the freshest ingredients, and its New York-style pizza. The restaurants blend premium recipes with the freshest ingredients that are all natural with no preservatives, no additives and zero trans-fats. Chef Russo’s family promise, “If it isn’t fresh, don’t serve it!” is the mantra of each and every franchisee who has been certified and mastered the Russo’s brand operating criteria.

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Russo’s New York Pizzeria Rolls Out “Next Generation Pizza & Italian” Restaurant Design

Mon, 05 Mar 2018 14:30:00 GMT

You know and love our fast-casual concept, Russo’s New York Pizzeria, and our more upscale, full-service model, Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen. Now, with the dawn of a new year comes a brand-new Russo’s to nourish your body and soul – the Next Generation Pizza & Italian concept.

Next Generation Pizza & Italian is shaking up the restaurant franchise industry with a new, fast-casual, pizza and pasta-focused concept offering a fresh approach to classic Italian dining.

Chef Anthony Russo, founder and CEO of the chef-driven concept, announced the brand’s “Next Generation Pizza & Italian” restaurant model –ideal for on-the-go diners looking for authentic Italian cuisine at shopping malls and neighborhood strip centers.

Beyond consumer convenience, Russo’s Next Generation Pizza & Italian restaurant model is leading the fast casual Italian dining category by creating a business model that is meeting customer demand:

A smaller footprint (1,200-4,000 sq. ft.)
A lower barrier to entry for entrepreneurs entering the restaurant franchise business with an initial investment less than $500,000 in select markets
A focus on fresh ingredients, reducing additional supply costs for preservatives and packaging, and also meeting consumers’ demand for high quality food
Online ordering and free delivery options for added customer value
Average food costs and labor costs are 21.8% and 25.4% respectively*
Item 19 financials put net income at an average of 17.4%*
Average sales volume per unit is $1,020,383 million*

“This new format meets the customer demand for fresh, quality cuisine for pick-up, on the go, or delivered,” said Russo, who has 40 years of culinary expertise that is reflected in the fresh, homemade Italian cuisine served in each of his restaurants using family recipes since 1978. “Our success starts with the food. We serve only high-quality ingredients. Our motto is, ‘if it’s not fresh, don’t serve it,’ and we live by that – our customers have come to expect it from us. A few of our house specialties include freshly made fettuccini Alfredo, homemade gnocchi, handmade mozzarella cheese, lasagna, eggplant parmesan, and of course, gourmet New York-style pizzas.”

Chef Anthony puts an emphasis on gluten-free pizza, pasta and other dishes, which thrills an often-underserved population with serious gluten allergies. Prior to adding gluten-free items to the menus in each of his restaurant franchises, he spent nearly two years developing a gluten-free pizza crust recipe that doesn’t skimp in flavor, texture or quality.

Chef Anthony Russo helms an acclaimed restaurant group which was ranked No. 25 Top Food Franchise by Entrepreneur Magazine i n 2017.

The media has shown great interest in the new Russo’s Next Generation Pizza & Italian concept as well – it’s clear that the word is getting out about the pizza franchise’s latest foray into offering even more of the brand’s highly regarded regular and gluten free pizza to customers in new markets across the world.

Coverage has already run in pizza publications and restaurant websites that tell the story of the Italian restaurant franchise’s ascent to the top of its class.

Fans of the pizza franchise can read about Russo’s Next Generation Pizza & Italian concept in Fast Casual , one of the most prominent online and print publications for those interested in restaurant franchise news. An article ran that describes the new model’s tech specs, including a great quote from Chef Anthony that hits home the powerhouse that is Russo’s Restaurants.

Additionally, a story ran on Pizza Marketplace , a popular news site for pizza franchise and pizza catering trends, which further solidified Russo’s Next Generation Pizza & Italian as one of the frontrunners in the on-the-go Italian restaurant franchise industry.

Russo’s Next Generation Pizza & Italian is just one of three great Russo’s Restaurants concepts that our franchisees can take advantage of adding to their portfolios – several of our franchisees are multi-unit owners who have found great success as owners of a pizza franchise.

“The Russo’s team goes above and beyond in terms of site selection, restaurant design and construction to make sure that each restaurant is up and running as quickly as possible,” said Guillermo Medellin, a Russo’s multi-unit owner of three locations in the Houston area. “The training is excellent and has taught me a lot about what it means to lead several teams.”

Medellin’s passion is working with people at each of his Russo’s locations to watch them grow as professionals.

“My first priority each day is to visit all three locations. I talk with the managers to see what they need in order to achieve the goals we’ve set,” he said. “We identify areas of growth and improvement, and together, we feel our best when our customers are served well.”

The pizza industry is booming and the opportunity to own a Russo’s Next Generation Pizza & Italian means that motivated individuals can grab their own slice of a $44 billion industry. To learn more about Russo’s franchise development opportunities and the Next Generation Pizza & Italian restaurant model, visit www.russosfranchise.com .

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Russo’s Italian Catering Services Are the Secret Ingredient For a Hit Event

Mon, 05 Mar 2018 14:30:00 GMT

An extensive variety of menu options that accommodate varied dietary restrictions and palates means Russo’s is the best catering solution

Old-world Italian pizzerias focus on fresh ingredients, superior taste and a sense of warmth around shared food. Chef Anthony Russo has been steeped in that tradition ever since he learned the craft of homestyle Italian cooking in his grandmother’s kitchen. Now, he brings that same Old-World rustic taste and handcrafted goodness to his restaurants across the country. What’s more, you don’t have to travel far to bite into a taste of authentic Italian, because Russo’s restaurants offer the best catering services tailored to your every need. This means you can enjoy the delicacies from Russo’s New York pizzeria at home, an event or at work. Russo’s Italian catering takes care of all the cooking while you enjoy the festivities.

Russo’s delivers and sets up mouthwatering Italian delicacies and has a range of menu options to suit every palate. You can choose from Russo’s famous homemade meatballs, garlic knots and calamari fritti among a variety of appetizers or start with a caprese or chicken and kale pesto salad. Choose from over a dozen different pasta presentations including specialties such as pasta flava and penne arrabbiata.

Delicious Italian dishes are anchored by Russo’s extensive selection of pizzas made from a proprietary recipe. Choices include Chicken Rustica, Paesano Napoletana, Caprese, Greek, and many more. Catering options can also include custom pizza options where you can choose from sizes and sauces including homemade pizza to olive oil garlic sauce. You can customize the cheeses, too, from buffalo mozzarella to Romano and top it off with an assortment of fresh vegetables and meats.

Vegetarian lovers of fine Italian food also have plenty to choose from Russo’s with our affordable catering menu. There’s the Heart-Healthy Veggie, Vegetarian, Margherita, Spinach, Kale and Artichoke and Mona Lisa pizzas and many kinds of pasta and salad dishes as well.

Chef Russo is particularly committed to ensuring a variety of gluten-free options. Russo’s serves the best gluten free pizza including gluten free Margherita, gluten free Mulberry (Italian sausage, pepperoni, Canadian bacon, hamburger, and mozzarella, with homemade pizza sauce) and gluten free Chicken Rustica. Gluten free soups and salads add to the assortment for those with dietary restrictions.

Catering can be customized according to your needs and budget. The Pizza Party option delivers Russo’s famous X-large 28” Party Pizza that can serve up to 10, perfect for birthday parties for hungry kids. Complement the pizzas with fresh Italian entrees and salads and even delicious antipasto trays. Russo’s family-style catering options feature family-style entrees such as Eggplant Parmesan, Chicken Marsala, Veal Parmesan and more. Each tray serves 6-8 people.

Looking for corporate catering? Russo’s boxed lunch options made with delectable Italian flatbread are perfect for lunch meetings and brainstorming sessions. Lunch box sandwiches include one cookie and a choice of House, Greek, or Caesar salad. Handcrafted sandwiches can include Chicken Portobello, Sausage and Peppers, Primavera, Eggplant Parmesan and more. Russo’s full assortment of New York pizzeria style authentic Italian dishes with gourmet pizzas and specialty pastas can add a dash of cheer to holiday events or larger corporate events. The trays serve up to six people.

Affordable catering options from Russo’s work especially well to feed large crowds of hungry kids. Parents approve because the delicious Italian dishes are made with care using fresh, healthy ingredients and with no added preservatives or trans fats. Russo’s catering also wins top grades at school events and for teachers’ lounge parties.

No matter the event—baby showers, church gatherings, graduation parties, Bingo tournaments—whether you’re looking for pizza catering or pasta catering or a combination of both with an extensive complement of authentic Italian salads and appetizers, Russo’s has you covered. The best catering solution in Houstontakes care of each and every one of your guests no matter how many they are and what they might like to eat.

“Our fresh, handcrafted food reflect the Old-World values and Italian authenticity that Russo’s brings to each and every dish we carefully prepare,” says Chef Anthony Russo. “We deliver the same fresh taste to every event we cater to, large or small. The key ingredient for us is customer satisfaction and we will go above and beyond to make sure that every last detail, from gluten free pizza options to healthy choices are presented and lovingly taken care of.”

Russo’s New York pizzeria restaurants are the best catering choice for your needs. We can usually accommodate same-day service, too, so find out how best our affordable catering menu can take care of your event’s food needs so you can concentrate on what’s truly important. Don’t forget to ask about restaurant deals or restaurant specials. If you can’t make it into one of our fine dining establishments, we bring the best of Italian home cooking to you, whether it’s for a party of four or forty.

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People Skills is Secret Sauce for Success Says Russo’s Star Franchisee

Sun, 18 Feb 2018 14:31:00 GMT

Guillermo Medellin has expanded to three Houston locations over a few short years and credits winning pizza franchise recipe and staff for impressive growth

Guillermo Medellin knows how to translate customer service skills from one field to the other. He worked in the manufacturing industry in Mexico and has applied much of that know-how to the restaurant franchise he now is a thriving member of, Russo’s.

Medellin, a multi-unit Russo’s franchisee, owns three locations of the Italian restaurant franchise in the Houston area where he resides: Woodlands, Conroe and Spring. All three are built out in Russo’s signature New York Pizzeria ^® style. This franchise model is suited for the lunch guest in a rush as it features fast and friendly counter service where a slice of pizza and salad can be ready in under seven minutes.

Russo’s award-winning pizza anchors the New York Pizzeria ^® and is complemented by a mouthwatering selection of appetizers, salads and pasta dishes and beer and wine. The NY pizzeria model recreates the atmosphere of authentic Italian-style pizzerias where everything is made from scratch with hand-picked ingredients, a recipe that has proven to be a hit for Medellin in all three of his locations. While takeout and delivery are primary drivers for this franchise model, which Medellin has seen success with, customers can choose to dine in as well in a fast-casual environment.

Medellin has been with the Russo’s family since 2009 when he moved from Mexico. He started out by purchasing an existing location before building out two more in short order in 2014 and 2015. What about the Russo’s pizza franchise appealed to him? “The concept itself is excellent—fresh, New York-style, brick-oven pizza and original recipes are created with fresh and natural ingredients,” Medellin points out. From all indicators, the Houston-area customers can’t get enough. They appreciate that they can dine in a casual, pleasant New York pizzeria ambiance and the delicious food, made following chef Russo’s tried and tested recipes, keeps them coming back for more.

Medellin leveraged his experience in the manufacturing industry and successfully applied those skills to an Italian restaurant franchise. Being on call seven days a week comes with the territory of owning a restaurant franchise, Medellin says, but he is grateful to have great managers, who have made a world of difference. It’s one of the many things he enjoys about his job. “I love working with people and seeing them grow as professionals. Together, we feel our best when our customers give us positive feedback. We love serving our customers,” Medellin says.

It is that passion for customer service and people skills that has earned Medellin an impressive growth streak in the pizza franchise business and to win Russo’s Restaurants coveted Franchisee of the Year Award in 2017. The award is presented by participating franchisors and honors sales achievements, dedication to industry advocacy and community leadership. In accepting the award, Medellin said he was honored to have been recognized and that the award was a testament to the hard work that his team puts in each and every day at all three locations and to the strength of “the amazing people we have on board to help us to do so. I can’t wait to celebrate the award with my team,” Medellin added.

Chef Anthony Russo, the creative culinary genius behind the brand who also serves as its CEO, said the award recognized Medellin’s passion for the business. “He’s willing to put in hard work, learn and help others. And, while we have dozens of incredible franchisees in our network, Guillermo really set himself apart this year–I couldn’t think of someone more deserving of our ‘Franchise of the Year’ award.”

Medellin’s advice to potential franchisees looking for pizza franchise opportunities: “ Be sure that you understand the restaurant industry and the demands of a business of this kind. I have found that in a hospitality/customer service-oriented field, a good basic understanding of business management is key, and experience leading and motivating people are necessary for success.” He points out that he treats employees with respect. “We offer them competitive wages and give them ample opportunity for promotion,” Medellin adds.

That recipe, along with Russo’s NY pizzeria mouthwatering dishes and rotating restaurant specials, all topped with stellar customer service has helped Medellin achieve an impressive growth track. His expansion has mostly been self-funded although he does have a small group of private investors. Medellin hopes one day to have ten Russo’s locations open including one in Mexico City. Throughout, Medellin continues to stand by a simple business philosophy: Keep it simple and maintain a trusting environment. With the Russo’s pizza franchise, he is able to do just that.

As for what Medellin’s favorite dishes at Russo’s? It’s hard to pick, he admits. “But my top selections are the Spinach, Kale & Artichoke Pizza, Penne a la Vodka, Prosciutto Arugula Pizzoto, Eggplant Rollatini, Chicken and Kale Pesto Pasta and Tomato Basil Soup.”

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Chef Chat: Anthony Russo Talks the Importance of Ingredients and Keeping it Fresh

Wed, 10 Jan 2018 14:24:00 GMT

It’s hard not to fall a little bit in love with Chef Anthony Russo’s genuine, engaging excitement. Maybe it’s that New York, Italian twang he still possesses, even though his family moved to Galveston when he was 12. Maybe it’s that his eyes light up when he smiles, or, maybe it’s his intense devotion to using fresh ingredients with his family’s time-honored recipes.

Russo caught the restaurant bug early on from his parents and since opening Russo’s Pizzeria in Galveston at the young age of 17, hasn’t lost momentum. Now, he owns and franchises Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen in 36 locations nationally and internationally (with nine in development.)

What’s interesting about Russo’s franchising model is that no matter how far-reaching his franchises are (Saudi Arabia for one), he and his crew personally train each franchisee to make everything fresh from scratch. Even the gnocchi which, if you know, is all about feel.

In the last several years he has branched into retail, selling frozen gluten-free pizzas. Russo states, “My gluten-free pizza you find in the freezer aisle [of grocery stores] is the same gluten-free pizza you would eat in the restaurant today.”

We sat down with Chef Anthony Russo to talk about his origin, sourcing balsamic vinegar, and his go-to 3 a.m. pasta…

EOW: How does a full-blooded Italian male get into making gluten-free products?

AR: (Laughs) Well, six years ago I used to make this low-carb pizza. Some of the customers coming in had Celiac Disease. I didn’t know what that was so I looked into it. I started playing with our dough recipes and came up with a gluten-free crust. I was surprised at how many people were coming to Russo’s because of this particular menu item.

I decided to develop it across our franchise system and then take it into retail. I always wanted to make frozen pizzas but I didn’t want to make bad frozen pizza. I wanted to make good frozen pizza. It took me years to find a co packer (a company that will package your product) where I could bring in my raw, fresh ingredients to make the pizza sauce on site. We launched it three to four years ago. My gluten-free pizza crust is thin so you can taste all the ingredients.

EOW: How long did it take you to nail that gluten-free pizza dough recipe?

AR: About two years.

EOW: Where are you from originally?

AR: New York, New Jersey. My parents came from Italy. My dad is from Naples and my mom is from Sicily. They moved to New York in 1962, and in the mid ‘60s we moved to Patterson, New Jersey. My mom’s side of the family owned restaurants in Italy and the Brooklyn area. My dad always wanted to cook. He decided to move us to Texas in 1978 and we opened our first restaurant in Galveston [Russo’s Italian Restaurant]. After school, my homework was: work in the restaurant.

EOW: What was your first job in the kitchen?

AR: Washing dishes and prepping. My dad used to hire chefs from Sicily and different parts of Europe to come cook with us. So, for a few years we had all these great chefs come to Galveston to work with us. Osso buco, fish stock, chicken stock, everything was made fresh. We even had a machine to make fresh pasta. [Russo’s had] all original recipes that my parents were making up.

EOW: How long was Russo’s Italian Restaurant open?

AR: About 21 years. I always had a passion for food. Working in my parents’ restaurant, as I got older, I wanted to open my own restaurant. So, when I was 17 years old, I opened up my first pizza shop.

EOW: You were 17?

AR: Yeah (excited). My dad said I needed to go to college and not [go into] the restaurant business. I went to college part-time. He finally told me, ‘well if you want to do it you have to get your own money.’ He was hard for an Italian guy, he said if you want to do it you have to do it yourself. I said ‘no problem.’ I put together a business plan and went to different banks for a small loan. One banker, gave me a loan.

EOW: What bank was this?

AR: Moody Bank in Galveston. I got a loan for about $26,000 dollars. That was just enough money to buy a pizza oven, a dough mixer and a prep table. That was it.

EOW: What about rent?

AR: Well, rent, I had some savings. Then my parents gave me a few bucks when they found out, surprised, that I got a loan from the bank. I opened my first store in Galveston, a tiny little pizzeria, called Russo’s Pizza. It was open for about four years and then I moved to Clear Lake to open up Anthony’s Pizza. That was a big hit. It was a simple menu; pizzas, salads, calzones.

From that point on I never looked back. I wanted to come to Houston, the big city. So, I brought Anthony’s to Montrose in the late ‘80s, it was fine dining Italian. In ’96 I opened up Russo’s Pizzeria… that I wanted to franchise. That’s where it started. I wanted to develop a franchise brand that was fresh from scratch. I didn’t want to have a commissary or buy pre-made dough or pre-made sauces. It took me a few years to put it all together, really good recipes, because we would be training these franchisees to make everything [in house.]

EOW: You’re doing all this fresh in-house stuff, is this at every location?

AR: Every location.

EOW: How extensive is your training?

AR: It’s six to eight weeks training. We start [in the] back of the house to make our own salad dressings, marinara sauce, chicken stock. [The] same way we do it today is how we did it back in the ‘80s at my parent’s restaurant. Pretty few restaurants today do it [make everything in house.] Unless you go to a nice fine dining restaurant, but, in the franchise world it doesn’t exist.

EOW: Do you personally help open each store?

AR: Everyone comes here [5727 Westheimer] to train and then when they open I go out there with my staff and spend about two weeks at their location. These guys that are buying the franchises, they have pride in selling their pizza because they made it [themselves]. They have pride in serving their guest high quality food and watching the customers’ reaction. They are passionate about what they create in their kitchen.

If you have a good pie, that’s what’s going to build your business. My focus has always been on the food. Food comes first. Also, using the right ingredients. As I built these stores, I went to Italy to [source ingredients]. Balsamic vinegar I get direct from Italy, also, because of my family’s connections I get my extra virgin olive oil from Sicily. I bring in containers of the stuff. I bring in great mozzarella cheese from this small dairy farm in Wisconsin that I sourced out.

Thirty years doing this and that’s what I put together, this nice package where we could franchise the concept. So, we opened up our restaurants in new markets and we built them differently. They all look unique with different style to give that personal neighborhood feel.

EOW: How was sourcing out balsamic vinegar?

AR: I went to this place called Giuseppe [Giusti] to try balsamic vinegar. (excited) He had balsamic vinegar from 100 years ago in a barrel!

EOW: Did you try that straight or with parmesan?

AR: No, no, no, no, no straight. They put it in a small little spoon (laughs) its 100-year-old balsamic right? It was like syrup it was so thick, it was amazing. I liked the story of the place. It’s a family vineyard and the family still owns it. They had all these different small barrels with the years [aged balsamic]. So, I’m buying vinegar from them for the stores.

EOW: How aged?

AR: I’m buying the 18-month aged. I love the stuff. It’s pure, clean balsamic.

EOW: What ingredient are you most excited for in 2018?

AR: I like Cauliflower. I added a Cauliflower Fritti to our menu here. I think it’s really good if you roast it, and makes a good topping on a pizza.

EOW: If Sicily or Naples were disappearing tomorrow and you could only save one which would it be?

AR: Oh, that’s hard. I like the Amalfi coast. That’s tough. In Sicily I like Taormina, that’s my favorite. I like the food better in Sicily. (pauses) I’d say Sicily because of the food.

EOW: Cannolo or Tiramisu?

AR: Tiramisu.

EOW: What’s your favorite beach to lie on and what’s typically in your glass?

AR: Wow, that’s a tough one. I like Hawaii beaches or Sicily. I like white sand beaches.

EOW: What are you drinking on the beach?

AR: Wine, for sure.

EOW: Which kind?

AR: Barolo is my favorite wine. I like Amarone and Barolo.

EOW: Say it’s 3 a.m. and you’re making pasta for yourself and a friend, what would it be?

AR: Angel hair pasta with fresh vegetables, zucchini, olive oil.

EOW: Aglio e olio?

AR: Yeah, aglio e olio, some peppers and that’s it, I’m done.

EOW spots a massive pizza on display.

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A Restaurant’s Survival Guide to Natural Disasters

Thu, 30 Nov 2017 14:27:00 GMT

Every restaurant should be ready for the worst-case scenario.

The news has been hard to miss lately. Four major hurricanes hurtled toward American shores, knocking out power, flooding buildings, and ruining lives and businesses in one fell swoop.

And many experts agree these catastrophic events are only going to get worse and more frequent. An important task for all restaurants is to create a natural disaster preparedness plan. This will ensure your business sustains as little damage as possible; your people—employees and customers—are cared for; and you are back on your feet, operationally and financially, as soon as possible.

Your Building

Russo’s Restaurants, which includes Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Russo’s Coal Fired Kitchen, is headquartered in Houston, and therefore braced itself for the recent arrival of Hurricane Harvey. Both the concept’s franchised and corporate stores in Houston sustained damage from the storm.

“We loaded up our windows with storm shutters, lined the perimeter of restaurants with sand bags, lifted chairs onto table tops and tried to remove as much equipment as possible ahead of the storm’s landfall,” says founder and president Anthony Russo.

Before disaster hits, it’s important to stay up to date with maintenance on your building, to reduce the risk of fires, for example, during a natural disaster. This includes items like ensuring your hood exhaust system is regularly cleaned, says Rusty Amarante, director of operations, Belfor Property Restoration, in Exton, Pennsylvania.

Secure your building by closing doors, trimming nearby trees, and protecting windows by either boarding them up or installing hurricane shutters. Ensure all doors and windows are clear of obstructions in case the building has to be evacuated.

If there is a threat of flooding, the electricity, gas, and water should be turned off at the main breaker.

Your Equipment and Supplies

If your restaurant is in an area prone to flooding, try to keep electrical items, such as computers and kitchen appliances, elevated above flood level, Amarante says. “It’s also a good idea to stock up on sandbags and consider updating landscaping around the outside of the restaurant,” he explains, to divert any floodwater away from the building.

Russo invested in powerful backup generators, which really reduced loss, “especially when it comes to keeping your fridge full of food running,” he says.

Datz Restaurant Group, which is headquartered in Tampa, Florida, and has three restaurants—Datz, Dough, and Roux in that city—has a gas generator for each location so they wouldn’t lose any stock. As it was, the restaurants didn’t sustain any serious damage and reopened within four days.

The Datz group also developed a smaller menu ahead of time that could be executed by a smaller staff, in case employees couldn’t make it in after the storm, or if the restaurants had limited equipment, due to damage or power outages. This, founder and co-owner Suzanne Perry says, would allow the restaurants to at least be functional, though turned out to not be needed.

In terms of equipment, Russo’s removed as much from the locations as possible, especially any that could be damaged by water exposure. And, the restaurants stored all computers in a safe, dry area and backed them up.

If you have enough time, Russo recommends moving heavier items off-site, but otherwise, lift them onto wood to stay above flooding, and cover them with heavy plastic sheeting to keep out water.

The Datz restaurants disconnected all equipment from outlets, shut off the gas, and took everything it could to the second floors.

Paperwork

Review your insurance policy to confirm the building and all equipment is included in the coverage, Amarante advises.

On top of its basic property damage and business insurance, Datz Restaurant Group carries wind coverage, flood coverage for properties in a flood zone, and income interruption insurance.

Also, create copies of all important documents, Amarante says, including contracts, insurance policies and other legal documents. Additionally, invest in disaster-proof containers that will protect these documents in case of a flood or fire.

And make sure you have a list with contact information for all your employees, as well as major utility companies, who you’ll likely need to contact after the disaster.

Your Employees

The safety of people should be your top priority. “In the event that a natural disaster strikes while staff and customers are in the restaurant, a plan should be in place for where and how to take shelter. Employees and customers should move to a secure room if there is a tornado or hurricane, but if flooding is anticipated, it’s best to evacuate the restaurant,” Amarante says. He advises against going so high in a building to avoid flooding that there’s no roof access or other means of egress.

He also says to stay away from windows, skylights, and glass doors. And contrary to popular belief, do not stand in doorways during an earthquake but instead take cover under something sturdy—as far away from windows as possible, since the glass may shatter.

Regularly train staff on what to do in the event of an emergency. They should all know the evacuation plan and where emergency supplies are stored.

Datz Restaurant Group took a lot of trouble before the arrival of Hurricane Irma over its employees. The three restaurants were closed for four days before the storm hit to allow employees time to evacuate. “We also pulled and printed all the shelter information and information from the county on where to pick up sandbags, shelter locations and where flood zones are for the staff, and went through the information with them one by one,” Perry says. “We also ordered 50 cases of water and gave it out to staff so they had water to go home with.”

Write a Plan

Perry knew communication was going to be tricky once the hurricane had arrived, so she implemented a “phone tree” from the managers on down to let staff know when to come back into work. “This was really helpful to get back up and running,” she says.

Before any emergency strikes, write a plan of action, then clearly display it in the dining room, says Amarante. This plan should:

Include an evacuation plan, featuring an agreed-upon location where staff will meet at a safe place away from the restaurant to ensure everyone is accounted for.
Identify all available exits.
Designate group leaders among staff who can help direct others to safety.

Plan Against Looting

Think about having a locked location in your restaurant to keep emergency supplies as well as expensive products like top shelf liquors and smaller pieces of equipment safe, to protect against potential looters.

Have an Emergency Kit

At each of Datz’ restaurants, there’s always a couple of power tools, like a power drill and a small power saw, for opening or cutting into things and boarding windows, in addition to basic tools,” Perry says, to expedite clean up.

Every restaurant should have a disaster recovery kit, says Amarante. The basics these should include are:
Non-perishable foods like canned goods and dry foods like crackers
Water
Flashlights and batteries
Local maps
A manual can opener
A first aid kit
Cash, preferably in small bills
A battery-powered or hand crank radio
Dust masks
Whistles (to call for help)
Garbage bags (for sanitation)
Wipes or hand sanitizer
Tools to turn off utilities

It’s not all about preparing for disasters; there’s also a mountain of work to be done afterward. Hospitality industry leaders including Ti Adelaide Martin, Tom Douglas, and Lally Brennan have established October 2 as a fundraiser evening to help restaurants hit by the recent hurricanes.

Through “One Night, One Meal, One Nation” participating restaurants will donate a percentage of proceeds to benefit industry workers and organizations in the affected areas. They’ll provide relief to hurricane victims and assist the families in the hospitality industry that were affected by the disasters.

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Russo’s New York Pizzeria in Clearwater Celebrates One Year Anniversary with Free Pizza for a Year

Fri, 17 Nov 2017 18:09:00 GMT

Owners of Authentic New York-style Pizza Restaurant Thank Clearwater Community for Support, First Year in Business

CLEARWATER, Fla. – In celebration of its anniversary and to thank its extraordinary fan base, residents and guests are invited to Russo’s New York Pizzeria in Clearwater on Saturday November, 11 for a chance to win free pizza for a year. Guests who dine-in or carry out throughout the day can drop their name in a raffle for a chance to win one free large pizza every week for one year. Those planning to stop by for dinner can also expect wine specials and the introduction of several new menu items.

In addition to celebrating one year in business, the restaurant, owned and operated by Mike Daner and his family, is recognizing a milestone in a regular partnership the restaurant has with Florida Sheriffs Youth Ranches, which mentors and develops young men and women through several residential care facilities. The Daners have reached the $5000 mark in donations made through “spirit nights” hosted by the restaurant where a certain percentage of proceeds are donated to the organization.

“Russo’s has been a great addition to our Donor Family, raising awareness and funds in support of our mission,” said Wayne Witczak, director of development at Florida Sheriffs Youth Ranches. “They have used their business to give back to their community through unconditional support. We look forward to future possibilities and the positive impact they will continue to make on our children and agency.”

A family-owned establishment, the restaurant features a brick oven along with an open-air kitchen as a focal point for the space, which seats 80 guests for lunch and dinner.

The Daners run the restaurant with their wives and have plans to open five more locations in the area. The traditional and inviting restaurant features a full menu of authentic New York-style pizza and Italian dishes. The restaurant blends the freshness of fine ingredients with the magic created around a handcrafted Italian meal.

“It’s amazing how quickly a year can fly by,” said Mike. “We’re thankful to the Clearwater community and will continue to show our gratitude. We’re very appreciative of our relationship with Florida Sheriffs Youth Ranches and our other local partnerships. They’ve supported us since day one and we couldn’t think of a better way to celebrate – come on by for a night of fun!”

Russo’s New York Pizzeria and its traditional Italian recipes trace their origins to a tight-knit family where the kitchen was the center of activity. Along with its sister brand, Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen, Russo’s New York Pizzeria has garnered a cult-like following for its truly authentic and delicious Italian dishes made from the freshest ingredients, and its New York-style pizza. The restaurants blend premium recipes with the freshest ingredients that are all natural with no preservatives, no additives and zero trans-fats. Chef Russo’s family promise, “If it isn’t fresh, don’t serve it!” is the mantra of each and every franchisee who has been certified and mastered the Russo’s brand operating criteria.

Complete Russo’s New York Pizzeria menu options are available at www.nypizzeria.com .

About Russo’s Restaurants

Russo’s Restaurants is a 47-location national and international franchisor of the fast casual and casual dining brands Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen. Based in Houston, Russo’s Restaurants is composed of a mix of corporate and franchised locations across Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Tennessee, Florida and Hawaii. Russo’s has entered international markets as well, with locations in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah, in the United Arab Emirates. There are an additional 30-plus units in development both in the United States and internationally. Chef Anthony Russo has created his concepts from years of applying his unique, family recipes featuring New York-style pizza, along with a broad variety of handcrafted pasta creations, calzones, salads, sandwiches, soups and desserts, reflecting his commitment to his New York roots where food and family come first.

To learn more about Russo’s franchise development opportunities, visit www.nypizzeria.com .

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After Harvey damage, Russo’s New York Pizzeria reopens in Kingwood’s Town Center

Tue, 14 Nov 2017 14:31:00 GMT

After closing due to damages from Hurricane Harvey, Russo’s New York Pizzeria reopened Oct. 28 at 42 N Main Street, Kingwood. The counter-service restaurant offers a variety of pizza options including specialty flavors, build-your own, a 28-inch party size and giant slices. Guests can also choose from pastas, salads, soups, calzones, wine and bottled beer. 281-361-3100.

www.nypizzeria.com/locations/kingwood

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Chef Anthony Russo’s intros new varieties of handmade frozen pizza

Tue, 14 Nov 2017 14:29:00 GMT

HOUSTON — Chef Anthony Russo’s unveiled at PLMA Italian-style meat lovers and prosciutto and fig handmade frozen pizzas with both gluten-free and New York–style crusts. These two new varieties bring the company’s portfolio to a total of eight.

Each pizza from the Chef Anthony Russo’s line is made with premium mozzarella cheese, and the sauce is made with fresh-packed tomatoes and extra virgin olive oil from the Russo family olive grove in Sicily, the company said.

“After finding success by providing guests the only New York–style gluten-free frozen pizzas on the market with six delectable options, we decided to expand our flavors ad crusts,” said Chef Russo, founder and CEO of Russo’s Restaurants and the creative mastermind for the retail line that is currently sold in more than 3,000 U.S. grocery stores. “Our pizzas use the highest quality ingredients and are handmade, offering a healthy alternative to consumers.”

Each pizza, he added, is handcrafted with fresh, all-natural ingredients, no preservatives, nitrates, rSBT and zero pre-frozen toppings. The new artisanal prosciutto and fig pizza is topped with Sicilian olive oil, fresh arugula, sliced prosciutto and fig preserves, while the Italian-style meat lovers pizza is made with Italian sausage, spiced pepperoni, beef sausage, roasted red peppers, mozzarella cheese and full-flavored pizza sauce.

Chef Anthony Russo’s retail products are available at more than 3,000 retailers nationwide, including private label distribution in Wegmans, Topco, Shoprite and Delhaize.

Click here for more information.

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More businesses open, scheduled to reopen in Lake Houston area

Fri, 10 Nov 2017 14:32:00 GMT

Business in the Lake Houston area had a big week as several owners reopened their doors after they were devastated from flooding at the end of August.

The Lake Houston Area Chamber of Commerce is keeping tabs on which businesses in the area have reopened, including businesses that are not members of the chamber. Data from the Federal Emergency Management Agency shows that 40 percent of small businesses do not reopen after a disaster and the chamber’s goal is to see more than 60 percent reopen.

The following businesses are now open.

Family Vision Center of Kingwood

The Mudpie Company

Papa John’s Pizza

Kingwood Barbershop No. 3

Massage Heights Kingwood Kings Crossing

Sanke Hairdresser

Burger King

Gnome Sweet Gnome

MOD Pizza was scheduled to reopen Nov. 10

Russo’s New York Pizzeria, 42 N. Main St. in Kingwood, plans to hand out free
giant slices of pizza to celebrate its reopening Nov. 10-12 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

State Rep. Dan Huberty’s Office and Joseph Chris Partners are scheduled to
open Monday, Nov. 13.

And Randall’s, 4540 Kingwood Dr., has a ribbon cutting ceremony scheduled for
10 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 15, with food sampling and a presentation to
Kingwood High School.

Costco has announced it will reopen in Humble on Thursday, Nov. 30.

“We are continuing to gather information on businesses re-opening on a daily
basis and the retention on businesses is greater than expected,” stated Andrew
Cardenas, business recovery coordinator with the Lake Houston Area Chamber.
“We continue to have high hopes for the area as we continue to facilitate their
recovery”

Here are some updates on businesses re-opening soon.”

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Russo’s New York Pizzeria in Kingwood Free Pizza – Nov. 10 – 12

Wed, 08 Nov 2017 14:33:00 GMT

When: Saturday, Nov. 11 ^th , 2017

Time: 11am – 2 pm (Nov. 10 – 12)

Where: Russo’s New York Pizzeria – Kingwood

42 N Main Street, Kingwood, TX 77339

Cost: Free

Categories: Community, Food & Drink

Event Details:

Russo’s New York Pizzeria in Kingwood is celebrating its re-opening after Hurricane Harvey by offering free giant pizza slices during lunch all weekend. Everyone is encouraged to stop by for a bite to eat and to check out the newly remodeled, upgraded space.

Friday, November 10th – 11 am to 2 pm
Saturday, November 11th – 11 am to 2 pm
Sunday, November 12th – 11 am to 2 pm

Website: https://nypizzeria.com/locations/kingwood/

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Russo’s New York Pizzeria Opens Second Austin Restaurant

Tue, 07 Nov 2017 14:32:00 GMT

One of Austin’s most highly anticipated restaurant openings of the year, Russo’s New York Pizzeria, opened mid-September at The Arboretum at 10721 Research Boulevard in Austin.

“Russo’s is an admired name in the restaurant industry,” said Amin Esar, local restaurateur and owner of the new Russo’s New York Pizzeria. “Every dish on our menu, whether it’s pizza, calzones or pasta, is handcrafted and made with fresh ingredients. You’d be hard-pressed to find this authenticity anywhere else in the area and I can’t wait to bring it to the community – Benvenuto, Austin!”

With nearly 20 years of restaurant operating experience under his belt, Esar is happiest when on the restaurant floor visiting with guests. Esar’s work in the industry, solid financial base, ties to the community and customer relationships make him an ideal member of the Russo’s franchise network.

Austin’s new Russo’s New York Pizzeria, which joins the Pflugerville location in the Austin market, is open for lunch and dinner with an extensive catering menu available. The traditional and inviting restaurant features a full menu of authentic New York-style pizza and Italian dishes. The restaurant blends the freshness of fine ingredients with the magic created around a handcrafted Italian meal.

As a Russo’s franchisee like Amin, you’ll benefit from three decades of success. During that time, we’ve fine-tuned our business – from P.O.S. systems, to training, to management structure, to marketing, to culinary research…and more. So you start out with three decades of experience at your back. You don’t have to worry about getting all the systems in place. You just have to run your business.

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Where’s the Best Pizza in Houston?

Sat, 04 Nov 2017 14:37:00 GMT

October was National Pizza Month, and I took this as my personal mission to eat as much pizza as I possibly could in order to make this list for you. YOU ARE WELCOME.

OK, I know this is completely subjective, but these are some of my favorite ‘za spots to enjoy a slice.

Russo’s

The largest slice of pizza I’ve ever had was from Russo’s . We got one at work, and this pizza slice must have been like a foot and a half long. It was just cheese, but it was yum. Russo’s is famous for its 28-inch pizzas, and they barely fit through a standard door, FYI. I ventured into the actual restaurant (just across the street from my work, on Westheimer) to discover that it, a. had normal sized pizzas and b. was a very popular lunch spot for pizza, pasta and even salads (seems wrong to order salad at a delicious pizza place, but I trust they are THAT good of salads).

We ordered the spinach, kale and artichoke dip, you know, to get some greens in and be healthy. It was absolutely decadent and kind of easy to throw back. FYI, we also got yummy house bread and olive oil dip too, so we were way caroboloaded before our pizza even arrived. We ordered the New York Village pizza, again, because NYC represent (and because it’s one of the most popular). It was like a next-level supreme pizza and was so good. Might be ruined on normal supreme pizzas now.

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Chef Anthony Russo Unveils Strategy to Bring Russo’s Restaurants Concepts to Asia

Thu, 19 Oct 2017 18:10:00 GMT

Fast-Casual New York Pizzeria and Upscale Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen Targets Malaysia, Singapore and The Philippines for Expansion

HOUSTON – Chef Anthony Russo, the creative culinary mind, founder and CEO of chef-driven concepts Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen, has announced a growth strategy to expand the brands’ international footprint after successfully launching more than 48 locations worldwide with an additional 35 in development.

This growth phase comes on the heels of recent Middle East development including openings in United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Kuwait. The brand is targeting Malaysia, the Philippines and Singapore as priority markets for future multi-unit deals, and to kick-off the brand’s plans, Chef Anthony Russo will be meeting with interested and qualified investors while at the Franchising & Licensing Asia expo. The event will be held at the Marina Bay Sands Convention Center in Singapore and runs October 12 –14.

“Growing in Asia has been on our minds for awhile and now is the time,” said Russo, who has spent nearly a decade leading both Russo’s Restaurants brands through strategic international growth. “Following some incredible development in the Middle East, we’re confident our brands bring communities together no matter the country. Plus, our franchise opportunities can’t be beat – we have exciting opportunities in lucrative international markets for franchise growth.”

Franchisees have found success in Russo’s proven concepts, which boasts more than 32 years in the pizzeria business. The New York Pizzeria is family-style casual, and the Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen is a bit more upscale casual. Franchisees who searched for an authentic New York Pizzeria experience have found just that in Russo’s, and have begun expanding into multiple units.

“Franchising with Russo’s has been an amazing experience for me and my family,” said Guillermo Medellin, who owns three Russo’s Restaurant franchises and recently won the brand’s “Franchisee of the Year” award. “I looked at over 200 different franchises, but Russo’s fit the business model I was looking for.”

The average sales volume per unit is $1.1 million. The most recent Russo’s opening saw a weekly sales income between $35,000-$60,000, with food costs accounting for about 22 percent.

Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen trace their origins to a tight-knit family where the kitchen was the center of all activity. As a young child, Russo helped his grandmother roll dough for cannoli, carefully wrapping it around four-inch wooden broomsticks to get the right shape before cooked. By the age of 12, Russo was learning authentic Italian recipes. Earning the Chef’s distinction as an 18-year-old, Russo honed his skills as a culinary expert working in his parent’s fine Italian restaurant, and then opened his own pizzeria.

Chef Russo’s creativity and commitment to expanding his menu to meet growing consumer demands, and to strengthen the depth and breadth of his authentically Italian selections, continues to strengthen the brands. He clearly demonstrates and reflects the growing trend among diners for chef-driven concepts with authentic recipes and chef-inspired culinary cuisine.

The family-centered restaurants surround diners with warm, inviting décor to enjoy heart-healthy menu items made fresh without preservatives, additives or trans fats. Beyond the brands’ specialty pizzas, menu items include fresh salads, soups and made-from-scratch sauces and pastas. Authentic Italian cannoli, fresh-baked, Italian flatbread sandwiches and, of course, hand-tossed pizzas are just some of the distinctive craveable items on the menu.

To learn more about Russo’s franchise development opportunities, visit https://russosfranchise.com .

About Russo’s Restaurants
Russo’s Restaurants is a 48-location national and international franchisor of the fast casual and casual dining brands Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen. Based in Houston, Russo’s Restaurants is composed of a mix of corporate and franchised locations across Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Tennessee, Florida and Hawaii. Russo’s has entered international markets as well, with locations in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah, in the United Arab Emirates. There are an additional 30-plus units in development both in the United States and internationally. Chef Anthony Russo has created his concepts from years of applying his unique, family recipes featuring New York-style pizza, along with a broad variety of handcrafted pasta creations, calzones, salads, sandwiches, soups and desserts, reflecting his commitment to his New York roots where food and family come first.

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Lavecchia Assumes Culinary Leadership Role for Russo’s Restaurants

Sun, 15 Oct 2017 14:41:00 GMT

By fesmag.com

Multiconcept operator Russo’s Restaurants appointed Vincenzo Lavecchia to serve as corporate chef. In his new role Lavecchia will lead menu expansion, staff development and more.

The new corporate chef will spend time at every Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen location training managers on proper food preparation and culinary techniques, according to a release announcing his hiring.

A two-time world champion pizza maker and a three-time United Arab Emirates pizza champion, Lavecchia’s culinary background includes more than six years’ experience working as a head chef at Eataly and Ronda Locatelli in Dubai.

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WREG – Russo’s New York Pizzeria

Fri, 13 Oct 2017 14:45:00 GMT

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Russo’s Brings on Pizza Champ

Tue, 10 Oct 2017 14:47:00 GMT

By www.modernrestaurantmanagement.com

Russo’s Restaurants, which includes Russo’s New York Pizzeria as well as Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen , recently appointed award-winning Vincenzo “Enzo” Lavecchia as corporate chef, where he will lead menu expansion, staff development and more.

The new corporate chef will spend time at every Russo’s Restaurants location training managers on proper food preparation and culinary techniques. A native of Italy, Lavecchia will ensure each Italian-inspired dish is as authentic as possible by passing his skills and knowledge on to each location’s kitchen team.

“When I was growing up, the most popular room in the house was the kitchen,” said Lavecchia. “I feel very lucky to be making a living doing something I love. Being able to share my experiences and skills with other talented chefs has always been a dream of mine, so I can’t wait to bring my experiences and authentic Italian cooking to Texas and beyond.”

A two-time world champion pizza maker and a three-time United Arab Emirates pizza champion, Lavecchia is no stranger to the kitchen. His strong background in the culinary industry includes more than six years experience working as a head chef at Eataly and Ronda Locatelli in Dubai.

Lavecchia piqued his culinary interest at a young age at home in Italy, where he grew up learning how to create a wide variety of Italian dishes. While attending Armando Perotti catering school, he learned the importance of adding a signature twist to dishes without compromising authenticity.

“This was an incredibly important decision and we couldn’t have made a more solid choice for the role of corporate chef,” said Chef Anthony Russo, owner and CEO of Russo’s Restaurants. “We wanted someone with both a strong culinary background and a lifelong passion for cooking – Enzo gives us that and more.”

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Russo’s Restaurants Names Two-Time World Champion Pizza Maker Vincenzo Lavecchia as Corporate Chef

Tue, 10 Oct 2017 14:46:00 GMT

By Franchise Farm
By FranchiseHarbor

By www.restaurantnews.com

Houston, TX – Russo’s Restaurants, which includes Russo’s New York Pizzeria as well as Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen , recently appointed award-winning Vincenzo “Enzo” Lavecchia as corporate chef, where he will lead menu expansion, staff development and more.

Russo’s New York Pizzeria and its traditional Italian recipes trace their origins to a tight-knit family where the kitchen was the center of activity.

Along with its sister brand, Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen, Russo’s New York Pizzeria has garnered a cult-like following for its truly authentic and delicious Italian dishes made from the freshest ingredients, and its New York-style pizza. The restaurants blend premium recipes with the freshest ingredients that are all natural with no preservatives, no additives and zero trans-fats. Chef Russo’s family promise, “If it isn’t fresh, don’t serve it!” is the mantra of each and every franchisee who has been certified and mastered the Russo’s brand operating criteria.

About Russo’s Restaurants

To learn more about Russo’s franchise development opportunities, visit www.nypizzeria.com .

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Russo’s Franchisee Guillermo Medellin Named 2017 ‘Franchisee of the Year’

Fri, 06 Oct 2017 14:48:00 GMT

Russo’s Restaurants is pleased to announce seasoned franchise owner Guillermo Medellin as the recipient of its coveted “Franchisee of the Year” award.

Winners are recognized annually at the International Franchise Association’s gala held during its Public Affairs Conference in Washington, D.C. The award is presented by participating franchisors and honors sales achievements, dedication to industry advocacy and community leadership.

“I’m honored to be recognized as Russo’s ‘Franchisee of the Year’,” said Guillermo Medellin, who owns three Russo’s Restaurants franchises. “This award is a testament to the hard work we put in each and every day at all of our restaurants, and the amazing people we have on board to help us do so. I can’t wait to share the news and celebrate this award with my team.”

Medellin, originally from Mexico, worked in the manufacturing industry before moving to the United States. Since purchasing his first Russo’s franchise in 2009, he now operates three Russo’s Restaurants concepts in Texas: The Woodlands, Spring and Houston, and has made an impact in each market through partnerships and regular community giveback.

“Guillermo’s passion makes him an excellent leader here at Russo’s,” said Chef Anthony Russo, the creative culinary genius behind the brand who also serves as its CEO. “He’s willing to put in hard work, learn and help others. And, while we have dozens of incredible franchisees in our network, Guillermo really set himself apart this year – I couldn’t think of someone more deserving of our ‘Franchise of the Year’ award.”

Learn more about multi-unit franchising with Russo’s Restaurants.

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It’s National Pizza Month!!

Thu, 05 Oct 2017 14:49:00 GMT

https://news4sanantonio.com/sa-living/its-national-pizza-month

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Russo’s Restaurants names Guillermo Medellin 2017 “Franchisee of the Year”

Mon, 02 Oct 2017 14:50:00 GMT

By Hello Woodlands

Russo’s Restaurants, the family of dining concepts that includes Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen, recently announced seasoned local franchise owner Guillermo Medellin as the recipient of its coveted “Franchisee of the Year” award.

Read about our visit to Russo’s The Woodlands and Guillermo’s favorite dishes.

Russo’s New York Pizzeria and its traditional Italian recipes trace their origins to a tight-knit family where the kitchen was the center of activity.

Learn more about Russo’s New York Pizzeria and view menu options available at www.nypizzeria.com .

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Russo’s Restaurants Opens New Concept in Fast-Casual Italian

Wed, 14 Jun 2017 14:52:00 GMT

Russo’s Restaurants unveils a fast-casual Italian franchise model with open pasta and pizza kitchen and four revenue streams.

With the successful opening this month of its first Italian fast-casual location with counter service and open pasta and pizza-making stations, Russo’s Restaurants is eyeing worldwide franchise growth opportunities.

This Smart News Release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20170614005637/en/

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Russo’s Restaurants Opens New Concept in Fast-Casual Italian; Eyes Worldwide Growth

Wed, 14 Jun 2017 14:52:00 GMT

Houston, TX (Restaurant News Release) With the successful opening this month of its first Italian fast-casual location with counter service and open pasta and pizza-making stations, Russo’s Restaurants is eyeing worldwide franchise growth opportunities.

Internationally acclaimed Chef Anthony Russo, the creative power behind Russo’s New York Pizzeria® and Russo’s Coal-Fired Kitchen®, and the Russo’s Franchise Team will be showcasing this new fast-casual Italian concept in Booth 954 at the International Franchise Expo, June 15 – 17, at the Javits Center in New York.

Headquartered in Houston, Russo’s is comprised of a mixture of 48 corporate and franchised locations including seven in the Middle East and 10 new locations planned in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. They are targeting growth in new emerging countries.

The new fast-casual Italian features a chef-driven open kitchen and showcases the fresh-made pizza and pasta. It is available for both single and multi-units in 1,200 to 4,000 plus square feet.

The newest store in Houston opened to standing-room only crowds, said Fernando Cordova, franchise owner. “Customers love the fast-casual concept where they can walk in and immediately order fresh, made-from-scratch Italian. We’re excited the restaurant has been so well received,” he said.

Fernando looked at several brands to franchise before choosing Russo’s for its strong financial performance, unique store design and homemade pizza and pastas from the Russo family recipes.

“I did the research and found Russo’s to be the best in the industry,” Cordova said. “I’m incredibly pleased with the opening results and expect to have a projected $700 a square foot in sales my first year,” he said.

Cordova and his investment partners plan to open multiple locations in Houston in the coming year.

Two additional new concept locations are set to open in Austin later this summer.

Besides the open kitchen and counter service, the concept offers four revenue streams for franchisees – dine-in, takeout, delivery and catering, and the ability to customize the food selections to the unique neighborhood, Russo said.

“Our brand promise is ‘If it isn’t fresh, don’t serve it.’ The culinary journey we create for the customer and proven business model offer great growth potential for our franchisees,” Russo said.

Besides the New York-style pizza and classic homemade pastas, Russo’s offers giant party pizzas, gourmet sauces, unique pizza toppings and house-made mozzarella cheese.

Contact:
for Russo’s Restaurants
Susan Scott
713-821-1476
s.scott@nypizzeria.com

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Russo’s New York Pizzeria opens at the Fairfield Town Center

Tue, 13 Jun 2017 14:53:00 GMT

A new location of Russo’s New York Pizzeria opened June 5 at Fairfield Town Center, 28610 Hwy. 290, Cypress. The eatery specializes in authentic, hand-tossed New York pizza as well as Italian pastas, salads and soups.

The new 2,500-square-foot restaurant includes 70 indoor and 24 patio seats. It offers free deliver services within a certain range as well as event catering services. 281-256-8713. www.facebook.com/russoscypress

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FREE GARLIC KNOTS TO CELEBRATE DAD

Fri, 09 Jun 2017 18:11:00 GMT

HOUSTON (June 9, 2017) – Celebrate Dad on Father’s Day Weekend with a free order of garlic knots at both Russo’s New York Pizzeria® and Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen® restaurants.

This special offer to honor Dads is available dine-in or take out only, June 17 – 18 with the purchase of an adult entrée or 16-inch pizza at regular price.

“Skip the tie this year – give Dad hot, fresh garlic knots to mark this weekend in his honor,” said Chef Anthony Russo, CEO and founder of Russo’s Restaurants. “We make our knots fresh with our homemade pizza dough topped with extra virgin olive oil, fresh garlic and Romano cheese. We serve them with a side of our homemade marina sauce. They are a crowd pleaser and we’re excited to offer them free to Dads on their special weekend.”

Offer is good at participating locations only.

About Russo’s Restaurants

Founded by Chef Anthony Russo, the Houston-based restaurant company was built on Russo family recipes and a passion for fresh, authentic handmade pizzas and Italian dishes created from the finest imported and house-made ingredients. The first Russo’s New York Pizzeria® opened in Houston to rave reviews in 1992, and the concept was franchised two years later. In 2008, Russo added sibling concept Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen®, offering a more in-depth Italian menu prepared in authentic coal-fired ovens. Russo’s Restaurants company-owned and franchised restaurants in the U.S. and the Middle East. Each Russo’s location offers dine-in, take-out, delivery and catering. For menu, location and franchising information go to www.nypizzeria.com or connect on Facebook , Instagram and Pinterest .

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Pizza Franchising – The Common Questions

Tue, 30 May 2017 21:12:00 GMT

The Russo’s Franchise Team was in high demand at the Franchise Expo at NRG Park in Houston May 20 – 21.

The two-day event is one of the largest in our home city designed to present franchise business opportunities to entrepreneurs. The team hosted a constant stream of visitors at our booth interested in learning about the pizzeria business.

And we had a lot of great news to tell them – how Nation’s Restaurant News named us one of the Top 20 Emerging Brands in 2016, how our food and labor costs are some of the lowest in the industry, and how we use the best ingredients to make our foods fresh, homemade every day.

And then there was our most exciting news – our latest store model that is a perfect fit for malls, strip centers and airports. It offers a smaller venue (1,200 to 1,500-square feet) with fast-paced counter service, and dine-in, takeout, delivery and catering. Three store models, four revenue streams and we offer some of the freshest food around. It made for great convention conversation.

But the best thing about these shows is the many questions we’re asked. Whether we’re in Houston or Timbuktu, some questions are universal.

Here are some of our most common questions answered. If you’d like more information about a Russo’s franchise opportunity, be sure to check out our website at RussosFranchise.com .

What makes Russo’s different?

We don’t do things the old-fashioned way. We make everything fresh in our stores daily. Fresh pizza dough, never frozen. Made from scratch sauce, fresh toppings, fresh dishes. Customers realize it when they taste our menu items and New York-style pizza, and that’s what keeps them coming back.

How much money am I going to make?

Whether it’s the first question or not, this one always seems to work its way into the conversation. And we get it. It’s an important one to get answered. Our return on investment is phenomenal for the industry – and you can find all the financial details on RussosFranchise.com. Our stores offer four different revenue streams – dine-in, takeout, delivery and catering. When you combine that with our updated designs for our stores and our authentic, chef-inspired cuisine, it drives success.

How much is Chef Russo involved in the business?

Chef Russo is hands on, but we also allow our franchisees to run their own business too. He’s always looking for new sources for the freshest products we can use to make our menu items. He travels to Italy every year to learn about the latest on olive oil production and other innovations in cooking. He’s the creative mind – all our recipes come from him. He stays in touch with all our franchisees to hear about what’s happening in the stores so he can help them. And they all know they can call him anytime.

My family has a great recipe for gumbo, fried fish, steak, coffee cake (fill in the blank here) and if I open a Russo’s I’d like to add it to the menu.

No one is more appreciative of family recipes than we are – some of ours are 100 years old. So we’re always respectful when asked something like this. But the answer’s always the same. We’re not looking to expand our menu in this way. We pride ourselves in authentic New York-style pizza and fresh, homemade Italian from recipes handed down in the Russo family for more than a century. That’s what our customers expect and that’s what we’re going to be making.

If I can find a cheaper source for cheese and other products to make the pizza can I substitute it?

Another one where we respect the question, but the answer is always the same. We have a motto at Russo’s – “If it isn’t fresh, don’t serve it.” To make a true New York-style crust you need the right flour, not a cheaper substitute. The tomatoes for our homemade pizza sauce are grown in California, our pizzas are topped with mozzarella cheese from a Wisconsin dairy farm. Our fresh, real ingredient make our dishes have the highest quality with the best flavor. So, no, we’re not going to change that with lesser ingredients.

How much money do I need to have to open a Russo’s?

The second most popular money question we are asked. The answer again varies on which restaurant model you are interested in. RussosFranchise.com has all the information, including our financial details, which is where we direct people for the information. That’s also where you can contact us for more information.

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Russo’s Restaurants Targets Regional Growth Throughout Houston Market

Tue, 16 May 2017 18:12:00 GMT

Authentic Fast-Casual New York Pizzeria and Refined Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen Concepts Discuss Strategic Expansion Plans at The Franchise Expo May 20 and 21 at NRG Park in Houston

HOUSTON – Russo’s Restaurants, the founders of dining concepts that includes Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen, announced today plans to significantly enhance the brands’ footprint in Houston by offering franchise options for a new counter-service model.

Evidencing the excitement around both brands, Chef Anthony Russo will be discussing the next generation pizza and Italian fresh, scratch kitchen concept in Booth 320 at The Franchise Expo at NRG Park May 20 and 21.

The new store design features counter service and an open kitchen with pizza and pasta station service showcasing the use of premium ingredients to prepare menu items fresh from scratch within 15 minutes.

“This design, combined with our chef-driven cuisine, includes our classic pastas to the new menu items that are unique like prosciutto and arugula pizza, truffle mushroom pizza and then our gourmet soups and salads – and all made to order in less than 15 minutes using only the freshest ingredients – perfect for home delivery and catering opportunities,” Chef Russo said. “The new store design is very attractive to new franchisees for a variety of reasons. The size of this concept can range from 1,200 square feet to 1,500 square feet yet still offering gourmet menu items allowing franchisees to drive more sales in their first year in business.”

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Why Franchise With Russo’s? We Asked One Multi-Unit Russo’s Franchisee…

Fri, 14 Apr 2017 14:34:00 GMT

Why is Russo’s a rewarding franchise opportunity? Guillermo Medellin, a multi-unit franchisee of three Russo’s locations in the Houston area, shares his thoughts:

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN FRANCHISING WITH RUSSO’S?

I’ve been with the Russo’s family since 2009 – I first purchased an existing location and then started up two more, one in 2014 and the other in 2015.

WHAT ABOUT RUSSO’S APPEALED TO YOU?

The concept itself is excellent – fresh, New York-style brick-oven pizza and original Italian recipes created with fresh, natural ingredients. Customers can dine in a casual, pleasant New York pizzeria ambiance, and there are lots of great opportunities in delivery and catering. The food itself is delicious!

HOW HAVE YOU FOUND THE HOME OFFICE SUPPORT?

I’ve found that the entire home office team is there for me when I need them.

WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR OTHERS LOOKING INTO A RUSSO’S FRANCHISING OPPORTUNITY?

Be sure that you understand the restaurant industry and the demands of a business of this kind. I have found that in a hospitality/customer service oriented field, a good basic understanding of business management is key, and experience leading and motivating people are necessary for success.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MENU ITEM?

It’s hard to pick just one favorite, but my top selections are the Spinach, Kale & Artichoke Pizza, Penne ala Vodka, Prosciutto Arugula Pizzoto, Eggplant Rollatini, Chicken and Kale Pesto Pasta and Tomato Basil Soup.

WHAT IS THE MOST GRATIFYING PART OF YOUR JOB?

It’s very gratifying to work with a great staff and to be recognized by our customers for our food, service and ambiance. I also love all of the opportunities we have to get involved with our community through Russo’s.

For the second year in a row, the Russo’s system-wide sales grew more than 20% with Average Unit Sales up over 24%. Visit us here to discover more about domestic and international franchise opportunities with Russo’s New York Pizzeria!

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Vegetarian delights

Wed, 01 Mar 2017 14:54:00 GMT

GREEN PIZZA The three amigos on this vegetarian pizza from Russo’s New York Pizzeria are spinach, kale and artichoke, plus a hefty dose of roasted garlic thrown in for good measure.

Forbes has listed vegetarian comfort food as the No. 1 food trend, followed by butcher shop/restaurants (like B&B Butchers & Restaurant , 1814 Washington Ave.) and all-day breakfast.

The National Restaurant Association’s latest forecast predicted sriracha as the new ketchup, as well as restaurant stores (aka grocerants like H-E-B’s Table 57 , 5895 San Felipe). But at the top of list? Veggie-centric entrees. “And even when animal proteins are included,” said the trade association, “the veg is still the main attraction.”

At The Pass & Provisions (807 Taft Street), the Cresta di Gallo pasta lure diners back with its mélange of mushrooms, bathed in a rich Parmesan cream sauce.

Along with a four-mushroom pot pie, Canopy (3939 Montrose) features ginger-kissed Liz’s Vegan Buckwheat Noodles with baby bok choy, snow peas, carrots and bean sprouts in a spicy lemongrass coconut sauce. Russo’s New York Pizzeria locations around town bake a mean spinach, kale and artichoke pizza, dotted with roasted garlic and gooey with melted all-natural mozzarella cheese and creamy alfredo sauce.

Always a step ahead of the trends, Anita Jaisinghani has helped to elevate Indian food in Houston with Indika (516 Westheimer), the dressier companion to younger sibling Pondicheri Bake Lab + Shop (2800 Kirby). Last fall, she opened a second Pondicheri outlet in Manhattan and garnered fans along with praises. “There isn’t anything in the city quite like Pondicheri,” scribed New York Times critic Pete Wells.

The same can be said about her vegetarian offerings. Wells described Anita’s beet uttapam pancake as “the perfect lunch,” topped with a fried egg and served with a salad and other vegetarian accompaniments. Always focused on a healthier lifestyle, Anita finds herself creating more dishes centered around vegetables. She’s currently rehauling the menus at fast-casual Pondicheri Bake Lab + Shop.

“My next move is to move meat off the center of the plate,” she said. “That’s not to say I’m going to make it all vegetarian because I might add some fish or other seafood, but there is going to be more vegetables. The meat is there to enhance the flavors of the vegetables or grains. It makes it more interesting, and it hits the body so much easier. I mean, ‘How does it make you feel after eating a hunk of meat?’”

Chef Junnajet Hurapan, aka Jett, looks admiringly at Indian cooks’ instinctive ability to create flavorful vegetarian dishes. At Songkran Thai Kitchen (1101-08 Uptown Park Blvd, suite H) near Galleria Mall and Songkran Thai Grill (2258 Texas Drive) in Sugar Land, he lets his customers take the lead in creating their own veggie-driven dishes.

“I listen to their requests, and then, I execute,” he said. “Look, if you’re not a vegetarian, you’re simply not going to understand the flavor profile like a vegetarian. My job is to make food people love to eat, so when they make a request, I make it.”

A non-meat item is the tow hou sam ros. “Tow hou means tofu,” Jett explained, “which we lightly dust with flour and fry, then toss in a chile-basil tamarind sauce.” Another popular dish is the tow hou tod, baked tofu simmered in a basil green curry sauce. Always a hit is his pad thai with tofu, but Jett said for vegetarians, he will substitute soy sauce for fish sauce. “This changes the flavor profile completely,” he said, “since the main flavors of pad thai is fish sauce, sugar and tamarind.”

Diners’ tastes have changed, Jett noted. More are opting for vegetable-heavy dishes. Even if they’re not vegetarians, they may decide to be “flexitarians,” part-time vegetarians. These days, more than half of his clientele in Sugar Land order vegetarian entrees. He said, “We have people who may decide to eat vegetarian just for a day or two days out of the week and others who will skip meat for five months out of the year.”

Located near the Medical Center, Lucille’s (5512 La Branch Street) attracts health-minded diners. For his vegetarians, chef-owner Christopher Williams created a roasted butternut squash entrée with roasted pumpkin seeds, cilantro puree, spiced soy yogurt and fennel fronds. Another dish is southern hummus made with black-eye peas with nutty tahini sauce, cumin-laced olive oil, lime and tangy sumac. “We top it off with shaved baby heirloom carrots and tomatoes,” said Christopher, who started playing with vegetarian dishes after his father’s heart attack three years ago. “We started playing with the hummus, and he dug it.”

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Russo’s New York Pizzeria – Polk

Mon, 06 Feb 2017 14:56:00 GMT

Dare we say, some of the best pizza in town? Anthony Russo’s expanding pizza empire offers New York-style thin or Sicilian-style thick crust made from scratch, with homemade tomato sauce and excellent cheeses. The most notable pie is the “Greek” pizza, made with fresh Roma tomatoes, basil and spinach, both mozzarella and feta cheese, onions, black olives and a liberal sprinkling of minced garlic. Also try the estimable calzones, stromboli and meatball sandwiches (but fuhgeddabout the muffulettas). Many more locations (see web site).

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THE HOUSTON GUIDE TO CATERING YOUR SUPER BOWL PARTY

Mon, 06 Feb 2017 14:54:00 GMT

If you’re like us, you’ve been pinning and saving Super Bowl recipes for making things like Buffalo chicken mac & cheese pizza rollups
for weeks now. If you’re like us even more so, you’re going to wake up on Super Bowl Sunday, realize you have exactly zero of the
ingredients required for such a feat, and come to the quick conclusion that there’s no way you’re going to face the crowds at H-E-B to
get said ingredients because you wasted all your efforts trying to get into that Taylor Swift show at Club Nomadic. Don’t be like us —
think ahead, and let these local eateries put in 100% of the hard work for you and throw the greatest Houston Super Bowl party
without much, if any, hassle.

RUSSO’S NEW YORK PIZZERIA

MIDTOWN (& OTHER LOCATIONS)
Availability: Offered through Monday, February 6, with delivery available
and locations are offering a Super Bowl Game Day Lineup Party
Package, featuring a giant, 28in party pizza with two toppings and 20 buffalo wings for $59.95. Rumor has it the pie alone feeds eight
to 10, but you might as well give it a shot even if you have a smaller group. Leave it all on the field, as the pros say.

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Super Bowl 2017 Finale: Where to Eat around NRG Stadium in Houston!

Sun, 05 Feb 2017 14:57:00 GMT

It’s the final game of the football season, Super Bowl LI , and you have tickets for NRG Stadium but don’t want to pay for NRG stadium restaurants . There’s always tailgating, but would you eat a hot dog from the back of some guy’s pickup truck who you barely know?

Especially with a game as important as this. Do you want to miss Super Bowl 2017’s finale because of a bad sausage link? Luckily, there are restaurants near NRG Stadium, and luckily for you, we’ve gone through the Houston restaurants closest to NRG Stadium and picked out some of the best so you can dine with confidence.

Restaurants Around NRG Stadium in Houston

Asahi Sushi
Located very close to NRG Stadium, if you are on the lookout for something close and a little different than what the tailgaters are serving, this might be the ticket for you. Good sushi and Asian cuisine at an incredibly reasonable price.

Pugon de Manila

Much like Asahi, this spot might be a great idea if you’re looking for something a little different. Pugon de Manila is a Filipino restaurant that serves traditional Filipino dishes along with Filipino barbecue. It’s a bit different than your normal football fare, but it’s good and filling.

Dimassi’s Mediterranean Kitchen

Now if you want to get completely stuffed, Dimassi’s might be your ticket to paradise. This buffet-style restaurant carries all of your favorites like falafel, lamb shank, and chicken maklouba, and it’s guaranteed to fill your stomach up so you don’t have to leave your seat during the big game.

Pappas Bar-B-Q

Texas’s state food is barbecue. OK, technically it’s not, but it should be. Everyone in Texas has their own favorite barbecue joint, but if you are looking for one close to the stadium, your best option is Pappas Bar-B-Q. Located near NRG stadium, they have all of your barbecue favorites like ribs, brisket, and sausage. It’s a great way to get your tailgating in and not have to stand in a parking lot.

Russo’s New York Pizza

If pizza is more your thing, then heading over to Russo’s New York Pizza should be your goal. It’s close to the stadium and pretty good. If you’re not looking for pizza, Russo’s also offers up a ton of other Italian food, salad, and dessert options.

Davis St.

If you are looking fine dining and don’t mind a bit of a walk, Davis St. has got you covered. Steak and lobster, chicken and shrimp pappardelle, blackened salmon, all of the finer foods you may be craving can be found here. It is a bit more of a walk than the other places on this list but we’ve been told that it’s definitely worth it.

There you have it. Six excellent choices for your dining pleasure and all within walking distance Super Bowl Houston. But if those Super Bowl food near NRG Stadium isn’t to your liking, take a glance around. There are tons of restaurants and bars in the area, ready and waiting to serve you.

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Meet the 2016 Next 20 restaurant brands

Wed, 12 Oct 2016 14:58:00 GMT

The 2016 Next 20 chains are both established — they posted $1.71 billion in sales in their latest fiscal year — and still developing. The brands grew systemwide sales an average of 43.26 percent and increased unit count by an average of 32.31 percent in their last year. Pizza concepts dominate the group. The brands vary widely in size, from chicken chain Lee’s Famous Recipe Chicken, with $160.4 million in U.S. systemwide sales, to Russo’s New York Pizzeria/Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen, with $41.2 million.

Get to know these brands on the rise.

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In Restaurants, Older Brands Can Be Better

Thu, 06 Oct 2016 14:59:00 GMT

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Homemade Lasagna

Thu, 28 Jul 2016 20:38:00 GMT

https://www.fox4news.com/good-day/recipes/homemade-lasgna

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“GOOD DAY” ON KDFW-TV (FOX DALLAS)

Thu, 28 Jul 2016 15:00:00 GMT

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A PIECE OF THE PIE

Sun, 01 May 2016 15:00:00 GMT

By Katie Sloan – Shopping Center Business

Russo’s New York Pizzeria brings old school Italian favorites nationwide.

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20 PIZZA FRANCHISES CHALLENGING

Tue, 26 Apr 2016 15:02:00 GMT

By Annie Pilon – https://smallbiztrends.com

There’s certainly no shortage of pizza businesses already in existence. But there’s always room for more. If you’re interested in owning your own pizza franchise, but want more options than just Pizza Hut and Domino’s take a look at the list of pizza franchises below.

Available Pizza Franchises

Papa John’s is one of the more popular nationwide brands that has franchising opportunities available. The company offers both traditional and non-traditional franchise opportunities, so even those with access to unique venues or locations can consider it as an option. New franchisees should expect initial startup costs for an average sized restaurant to come out to about $250,000.

Little Caesars

Little Caesars started with just one pizza restaurant in Metro Detroit in 1959. And since then it has grown to become an internationally recognized brand. The company prides itself on unique offerings, like its $5 Hot-N-Ready pizzas, along with quality, training and community involvement. The initial investment can range from $314,000 to $1,335,500. And the company has markets available for franchise growth around the country.

Marco’s Pizza

Marco’s Pizza currently has hundreds of stores throughout the U.S., with even more opportunity for growth in select markets. If you want to start a multi-unit development, you can sign a three to five store deal for access to an exclusive territory. You’ll need to spend between $221,592 and $421,592 to get started with a traditional franchise location.

Sam & Louie’s

Sam & Louie’s currently has locations in five states, with interest in expanding even further. The company has heavy interest in expanding in Colorado, Kansas, Nebraska, Oklahoma and Texas. The total initial investment ranges from $327,500 to $468,700. And there are royalties and marketing fees involved as well.

Red Brick Pizza

RedBrick Pizza specializes in brick oven pizzas made with quality ingredients. The fast casual restaurant chain currently has franchise opportunities available in Missouri, Kentucky, Nebraska and Illinois, as well as further growth in its current markets. You can choose between single and multi unit developments. And the cost depends on which option you choose.

Hungry Howie’s

Hungry Howie’s is a nationwide brand with further expansion opportunities in select states. There are even more opportunities available for those interested in multi unit developments. The company offers training, a nationwide distribution network and marketing assistance. The initial investment typically falls between $239,700 and $472,000.

The Pizza Press

The Pizza Press is a restaurant chain that uses the concept “publish your own pizza.” Guests get to create their own custom pizzas. So franchisees can create a real experience for the customers in their area. The company is currently seeking out franchise expansion in several states, mainly those in the western half of the country. And you’ll need a minimum liquidity of $200,000 per restaurant to get one of these pizze franchises.

Papa Romano’s

Papa Romano’s is a Michigan based pizza chain that also offers things like subs, salads and wings. The company offers training and ongoing support for franchisees. And there are both single and multi unit developments available.

Pizza Ranch

Pizza Ranch has a dine-in/carryout restaurant model with a focus on creating a welcoming environment for guests. The company provides training, marketing assistance and ongoing support to franchisees. The total initial investment starts at above $1 million. And single and multi unit developments are available.

CiCi’s Pizza

CiCi’s is a pizza buffet chain with 442 locations nationwide. Franchisees are required to invest $125,000 per restaurant. The company provides marketing support, training and distribution. And there are even incentives available to veterans to make the initial investment easier.

East of Chicago Pizza Company

East of Chicago Pizza Company is a Midwestern chain that has been in business for more than 20 years. The company has a proven business model and a dedication to creating pizzas and other food items with quality ingredients.

Happy’s Pizza

Happy’s Pizza is a chain that provides delivery, carry-out, dine-in and catering options for customers. The company provides services for training, real estate, marketing and more. Happy’s has existing locations throughout the country and even more slated to open soon.

My Pie Pizza

My Pie is part of the growing fast casual custom pizza market. Franchise opportunities are currently available nationwide. You’ll need between $190,000 and $545,000 in build-out costs. There are also royalties and local ad fees involved when buying these pizza franchises.

Papa Murphy’s

Papa Murphy’s has over 1,500 stores nationwide that serve take ‘n’ bake pizza. The company provides training and support to franchisees. And there are current and future markets open to expansion around the country.

Russo’s New York Pizzeria

The Russo’s brand actually contains two restaurant chains, Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Russo’s Coal Fired Italian Kitchen. Both restaurants exemplify the fast casual restaurant environment and focus on using quality ingredients. The company has been in business for more than 30 years and provides, training, marketing, management structure and even culinary research to franchisees.

Rosati’s Pizza

Rosati’s is a restaurant chain that specializes in authentic Chicago style pizza. The company provides training and assistance with site selection and various other aspects of running your franchise. You’ll need at least $100,000 in liquid assets to get started.

Vocelli Pizza

Vocelli Pizza specializes in artisan pizzas and other classic Italian dishes. The company has been around for more than 25 years and falls into the growing fast casual segment. Your total startup costs can range from $146,000 to $317,900.

Kono Pizza

Kono offers a unique take on pizza. The Kono Cone changes the entire shape of traditional pizza in an effort to make it easier to eat. The company also aims to provide healthier alternatives to pizza fans. If this opportunity appeals to you, you’ll just need some business savvy and at least 100,000 in liquid capital to get one of these pizza franchises.

Fox’s Pizza Den

Fox’s Pizza Den is a family owned business that prides itself on being accessible to potential franchisees. The company’s $10,000 franchise fee and flat $300 per month royalty rate make it a fairly affordable option compared to other pizza franchises. The company also helps with site selection, business plans, inventory and more.

Jet’s Pizza

Jet’s is a pizzeria chain that provides carryout and delivery. The company provides training, opening assistance and ongoing support to franchisees. Jet’s charges a $20,000 franchise fee and collects royalties based on a percentage of acquired inventory rather than just taking a percentage of gross sales.

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PIZZA FRANCHISE HAS PLANS TO EXPAND INTO BOYNTON BEACH

Sat, 02 Apr 2016 15:07:00 GMT

By Sun Sentinel

Chef Anthony Russo, the founder of chef-driven dining concepts that include Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen, has plans to expand his franchise throughout Florida, including Tampa, Fort Lauderdale and Boynton Beach.

The restaurant has a location in Pembroke Pines (14910 Pines Blvd.) with its Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen chain.

“We’re excited to have more of a presence in Florida,” said Russo, who grew up in an Italian household in Galveston, Texas with parents who emigrated from Italy. “My parents came from Italy to New Jersey and I learned the trade in my mother’s kitchen. We always made homemade wine, salami and prosciutto. Everything was made in-house.”

“When I visited relatives in Italy, my aunt told me: ‘Whatever we grow in the garden is what we serve in the kitchen,’” he said.

Russo said he believes it is that emphasis on fresh, homemade ingredients that has made his restaurants and his franchise concept a success. He makes his own dough and pizza sauces and boasts that he doesn’t use a commissary.

In 1984, he opened his first restaurant, a 750-square-foot one-oven, two-table restaurant in Galveston where his parents had moved when he was 12.

Four years later, looking to expand, Russo went to the bank for a small business loan and was turned down a few times until an East Coast transplant had faith in his vision and loaned him money on a handshake to open Anthony’s Pizzeria in 1988.

Popular with transplanted Easterners, especially those from New York and New Jersey, Russo sold New York-style pizza by the slice, calzones and salads.

“It took off,” he said. Or, as he says on his website, he was “spinning pizza dough into culinary gold.”

Like the pizza, Russo built the franchise from scratch, created his own model with a simple concept and recipes.

“It’s all about the food,” said the father of five, including triplets.

Currently, Russo boasts 44 locations with 38 under development and has gone international with restaurants in Dubai and Saudi Arabia.

Franchise owners Eshraf (Alex) Eskander, a former accountant, and Vic Matthews, an attorney and commercial real estate broker, are happy with their decision to become owners.

Matthews, who owns the Russo’s New York Pizzeria franchise in League City, Texas with his business partner Mike Putnal, a retired Galveston police department captain, are going on their eighth year.

“We went into it as an investment opportunity,” Matthews said. “At that time, it was an up-and-coming franchise and we found the food to be incredible.”

He gives credit to Russo and said he is a hands-on business owner.

“This restaurant concept goes back to his Galveston pizza roots,” Matthews said. “He was always throwing the dough and on our opening day he was in the kitchen doing prep.”

Eskander, who runs the business with his wife Nivine, has been a franchise owner for a decade and recently signed on for another 10-year contract.

“My wife always had a dream to own her own restaurant. We met Anthony and ate at his restaurant,” said Eskander, who emigrated from Egypt in 1980 and was impressed with the food and decided to investigate further. “Anthony is a good person, who works hard to protect his brand and his recipes.”

Visit nypizzeria.com.

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EXPLORING THE FULL RANGE-AND MONEYMAKING POTENTIAL-OF ITALIAN MEATS

Fri, 01 Apr 2016 15:07:00 GMT

By LIZ BARRETT – https://www.pmq.com

These gourmet proteins can be paired with nearly everything on your existing menu, with delicious results.

You already know that pepperoni has been America’s favorite pizza topping for decades-but times are changing, and so are consumer tastes. When was the last time you introduced your guests to something different, such as an imported Italian salami or a beautiful prosciutto di Parma? Maybe it’s time to expand your horizons, explore the full range of Italian meats and discover how you can pair them with nearly everything on your existing menu.

“We use all kinds of meat, from raw to cured to dry-aged to dehydrated,” says Fabio Viviani, celebrity chef and owner of a growing list of restaurants in Chicago, including Siena Tavern and Bar Siena. “The most common meats we use for our pizzas are cold cuts and housemade sausages. We do a lot of salami, coppa, prosciutto sausage and housemade pepperoni. We chose these because they cook in the oven very well. Prosciutto di Parma and prosciutto di San Daniele are the best options when you want to slice the meat very thinly and place it on the pizza after cooking; everything else cooks and crisps very well.”

As for the rest of the menu beyond pizza, Viviani say you can pair Italian meats with almost everything. “Put them together with sharp cheeses, any kind of vegetable, mozzarella, truffles, mushrooms, Brussels sprouts, figs or pickled vegetables-really anything but fish,” he says.

Anthony Russo’s list may be slightly shorter, but the founder/CEO and head chef of Houston-based Russo’s restaurants also takes full advantage of cold cuts. “The main three Italian meats I use are soppressata salami, prosciutto di Parma and mortadella ham,” he says.

Good choices, all of them. So let’s take a closer look at each one.

PROSCIUTTO DI PARMA
A first choice for many chefs is prosciutto di Parma, thanks to its salty flavor and versatility. “I use prosciutto di Parma on pizza, salads, pasta and sandwiches, because it slices really thin and is very soft,” Russo says. “I also wrap it around fresh buffalo mozzarella and grill it with a little olive oil for a great appetizer.”

One of the favorites at Russo’s is a flatbread sandwich with fresh mozzarella, prosciutto di Parma, arugula and pesto. “You can tell if a prosciutto is from Parma because it has a nice red color and it’s nice and soft, not chewy like some of the domestic prosciuttos can be,” Russo notes. (Learn more about prosciutto in the sidebar, “The Prosciutto Puzzle,” on this page.)

SOPPRESSATA SALAMI AND DRY ITALIAN SAUSAGE
Much like prosciutto, salami and Italian sausage can be a great addition to the menu if you’re looking for something that’s easy to pair with many diverse dishes. “Dry Italian sausage and salami are very versatile,” Viviani says. “We use salami for salad, pizza, pasta, vinaigrette and more. Salami-whether dry or wet-is a very user-friendly, headache-free kind of cold cut that is delicious by itself or paired with a lot of things.”

For a little kick, try a spicy soppressata and see how your customers react. After all, today’s consumers are more attracted to dishes with a kick. “I don’t want to buy the regular salami that you can get anywhere else, so I use soppressata for my sandwiches,” Russo says. “Soppressata is a little spicy and really good.”

MORTADELLA
Mortadella, an Italian pork sausage flavored with various spices, plays a featured role on artisanal pizzas made by famed chefs such as Giada de Laurentiis, Marc Vetri and Emeril Lagasse. “There’s a lot of different types of mortadella ham, some with pistachio in it, some without,” Russo says. “I like the imported mortadella with pistachios from Italy. You can really taste the flavors in the imported one.”

“People get tired of the same old pepperoni and sausage. They want something unique and different. You can do a lot with prosciutto and pancetta on a pizza.”
-Anthony Russo, Russo’s New York Pizzeria

CHOOSE QUALITY OVER PRICE
When adding any new menu item, price is always a concern. But when it comes to high-end ingredients such as imported Italian meats, consider the benefits of choosing quality over price. A little goes a long way when the bold flavors of a spicy soppressata or salty prosciutto di Parma are paired with a gorgeous, fresh salad or housemade cheese.

“As a chef, I do look at the price, but what sells me is the quality,” Russo says. “The quality will set us apart from other pizza chains, and customers nowadays know the difference. We encourage our servers to promote the fact that we’re serving quality imported ingredients as well. When you look at it as $9 a pound versus $14 a pound and break it down by ounces, it’s a difference of pennies.”

“Start with a good salami, a good prosciutto and a good pepperoni,” Viviani agrees. “Everyone knows them, they’re easy to source, and if you want to make your own, salami and pepperoni are easy to make.”

NOT SO FOREIGN ANYMORE
If you’re worried that your customers won’t understand what mortadella or soppressata is, fear not. Russo, who owns restaurant locations in places such as Texas, Florida, Oklahoma and Tennessee, says that customers are ingredient-savvy nowadays. “Ten years ago, not too many people used prosciutto on their pizza,” he says. “Now prosciutto is more of a foodie dish. Mortadella may not be as popular, but we serve it on our sandwiches, and customers really enjoy it.”

Russo believes that today’s customers get a little bored with the same old pepperoni and sausage. “They want something unique and different. You can do a lot with prosciutto and pancetta on a pizza-add arugula, kale or artichoke hearts. You can also use Italian meats for calzones, pasta, bruschetta and antipasto salads, or create an Italian meat tray with prosciutto, mortadella, and Genoa salami.”

No matter how you decide to experiment with adding new cuts of Italian meats to your topping lineup, start small and test the waters. Focus on quality over quantity and let your sales forge a path toward increased creativity.

Liz Barrett is PMQ’s editor at large and author of Pizza: A Slice of American History.

This article appears in the April 2016 issue of PMQ Pizza Magazine

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YOU’LL SPARE NO EXPENSE FOR FINAL FOUR EXPERIENCE

Thu, 31 Mar 2016 16:56:00 GMT

By Kyrie O’Connor and Mike D. Smith

Visitors likely to find ‘premium factor’ in trip to Houston will set them back.

Of all the cities hosting March Madness games this year, Houston, which opens its doors to the men’s NCAA basketball Final Four on Saturday, will set ticketholders back the most money. But lest anyone think Houston suddenly has turned into Dubai on the Bayou, the numbers tell a slightly different story.

“The issue in Houston is hotel expense,” said Ken Robinson of Runzheimer International, a business management consulting company that crunched thenumbers and pegged the cost of a three-star-or-better hotel room within five miles of the city center at about $375 a night, more expensive than normal because of the Final Four.

“A premium factor is applied,” Robinson explained. “It’s scarcity and supply and demand.”

Frankly, a Final Four city in the heat of the tournament is just going to be more expensive than a first-round city, because that first round is less prestigious and the cities – think Des Moines, Iowa, or Providence, R.I. – often are smaller.

The good news? In general, meals and gas are cheaper here, according to Runzheimer. Beer (domestic, at a restaurant) is a steal here at $4.02, compared with $4.61 in Anaheim, Calif. A latte costs about $3.45, compared with $4.75 in Chicago. Gasoline is 43 cents a gallon cheaper than in Brooklyn, N.Y.

Generally, Oklahoma City offered the biggest basketball bargain this year,Robinson said. (But a good Texan will tell you it really ought to.)

In normal times, Houston is only in the top 20 most expensive cities, Robinson said. But these are not normal times.

BIG FAN BASE CRUCIAL

Houston businesses are girded for the crush. For hotels, the frenzy surged once teams were decided.

Staff at the Westin Galleria and the Westin Oaks knew ahead of time that they would be an official team and fan hotel, respectively. University of Oklahoma alumni associations and other groups began calling as soon as the Sooners’ berth was decided, said John Oakley, sales and marketing director.

The hotel lucked out with OU, since the nerve center of its fan base is just ahalfday’s drive away, on Interstates 35 and 45.

“It’s crucial,” Oakley said. “You really want a team that’s got a big fan base and a traveling fan base.”

The Four Seasons Hotel near Discovery Green – where the March Madness Music Festival will host Maroon 5, Pitbull, Kendrick Lamar and other acts – is nearly booked, said general manager Tom Segesta. This past Sunday, as teams clinched their spots in college basketball’s final showdown, the 468-room hotel reached near-capacity. During a high-demand period such as the Final Four, rates are a little higher than normal, he said.

A call to the Four Seasons reservations Wednesday afternoon confirmed that the only room available on Saturday night was a one-bedroom presidential suite in the north wing. Cost: $12,300.

Not surprisingly, people also are shelling out big bucks for access and attendance. Cyberspace is filled with sports travel packages for the area’s luxury hotels.

PrimeSport.com , an online sports travel and event company, is hawking fournight packages with VIP event access, game day transportation, official NCAA souvenirs, tickets and stays at hotels such as the Four Seasons, the Omni, Westin, The Houstonian and the Magnolia. Prices start at $2,300 and run as high $4,100. The catch: Cancellations aren’t allowed.

BRACING FOR ‘BLACK FRIDAY’

A trip to Houston is also a fine excuse to shop. All four team hotels are clustered uptown around the Galleria – Oklahoma at the Westin Galleria, Villanova at the Royal Sonesta, Syracuse at JW Marriott and North Carolina at the Hilton Post Oak – so the luxury mall is bracing for a Black Friday atmosphere in terms of traffic and crowds, said Andrew Huang, marketing director at the Galleria. That includes additional staffing to manage parking areas and attractions, such as the ice skating rink.

“The Galleria is really kind of a gathering place for Houston, and we tend to be the epicenter when there are big events like this,” Huang said.

Players, fans, families, boosters, and corporate visitors courting clients mean a broad mix of diners and shoppers, especially for athletic wear and sporting goods retailers, Huang said. During the recent Texas Bowl, which saw Louisiana State University trounce Texas Tech, a similar mix of visitors packed the mall and restaurants, he added.

Anthony Russo, owner of the many Russo’s New York Pizzeria restaurants in Houston, said the Final Four’s impact will be undeniable for any business in the area, especially restaurants. With locations on Polk Street, in Midtown, the Galleria area and Kirby Drive, Russo said he’s well-positioned in several visitor hubs.

‘A BIG PARTY WEEKEND’

In 2011, the last time Houston hosted the Final Four, Russo saw a boom in deliveries and takeout orders. He’s expecting his Polk Street location, across from the Hyatt Regency and Doubletree hotels, and the Kirby Drive restaurant nearest NRG Stadium, where the teams will compete, will be “jammed busy” this time, starting Thursday.

Russo began a social media blitz last week and will begin stocking extra supplies during the latter part of the week.

“We buy everything fresh, so it’s not something you can order so far in advance,” he said. “It’s a big party weekend, and we’re ready for it.”

So are the supermarkets.

“Kroger is anticipating an increase in the sales of guacamole, chips, soda, chicken wings, adult beverages and other game-watching essentials,” said Kristal Howard, a Kroger spokeswoman.

But for visitors to town, signature Texas barbecue has to be on the must-do list. Levi Goode, who runs Goode Company BBQ and the whole suite of Goode restaurants, is ready to bring the meat.

“We want to be good ambassadors for the city,” Goode said.

The last time the Final Four was in Houston, plenty of guests were from out of town, so Goode Co. has been training staff for what to expect.

“We’re pretty much maxed out on what we’re able to smoke,” Goode said.

kyrie.oconnor@chron.com, mike.smith@chron.com

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LUNCH AT RUSSO’S COAL FIRED ITALIAN KITCHEN

Tue, 29 Mar 2016 18:13:00 GMT

BY BETSY LEAVE A COMMENT – The Dallas Socials

Everyday when it comes to lunch, my husband and I scratch our head. Since we work from home, it’s always nice to get out of the house but we always struggle to find new restaurants to visit that can provide fast service, delicious food and won’t break the bank.

As I’m sure you’ve heard, Richardson has been all over the news with it’s growth and how retailers and restaurants are flocking to the suburb. My husband and I usually stay in our little bubble but we have vowed to get out of it and go to better restaurants so we started heading to check out the scene in Richardson.

My husband could eat a Subway sandwich for lunch every single day. Me, on the other hand, can’t do that. So we usually try to find a place that serves good sandwiches so he can get his fix. We happened to find Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen located at the corner of Campbell and 75.

We started our meal with a dish that I’ve never had before – Arancini. Have you ever heard of it? Arancini is sicilian rice balls loaded with Italian herbs, Grana Padano romano cheese, in a rich bolognese sauce. This appetizer would have been perfect to order if you want a lite lunch.

They were full of flavor and were the perfect appetizer. I ordered from the lunch menu for my meal and didn’t realize it also came with a salad so I actually got two appetizers! I was able to choose between a house salad or greek salad. I quickly learned that all of Russo’s plates were going to be huge.

Russo’s recently launched a few new menu items that included kale and I couldn’t be more excited to give it a try. I love kale and make it at home often but it’s not an item that I find in restaurants often. This is the lunch portion which literally fed me for days.

Remember how I told you my husband is obsessed with sandwiches? Lucky for him, Russo’s had a large selection! He instantly chose the Italian Deli which is one of the biggest sandwiches that I have ever seen. The crazy part about it – we were told the dinner portion was double in size.

No meal is complete without dessert! We had an early lunch and the tiramisu wasn’t ready yet (Yes, it’s made in house so you know it’s got to be good). We opted for the chocolate cake which like all of the other portions we were served, was huge! The cake comes all the way from New York and is definitely on the top of list of best cakes I’ve ever eaten. Their colossal chocolate cake is layer upon layer of dark, moist chocolate cake sandwiched with our silkiest smooth chocolate filling, piled high with chunks of cake.

We loved every bit of our meal. Not only did we have tons of food to take home and eat on the rest of the week but everything on the menu was very reasonably priced. Stop in and check it out. Don’t forget to let me know what you think!

Russo’s Coal Fired Italian Kitchen is located at 700 East Campbell Rd, Richardson, TX 75081.

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Russo’s Restaurants Welcome New Location in Katy, Texas

Thu, 18 Feb 2016 14:34:00 GMT

Now in more cities than ever, Russo’s New York Pizzeria is an attractive franchising opportunity for those interested in a proven, chef-driven concept. We are excited to celebrate our most recent New York Pizzeria opening in Katy, Texas, kicking off the year strong. Now, anyone with a craving for authentic, fresh Italian cuisine can visit the new Russo’s New York Pizzeria, which is situated in the Shops at Katy Reserve alongside other popular Katy spots.

Open for lunch and dinner, Russo’s New York Pizzeria in Katy also offers an extensive catering menu. Authentic New York-style pizza and traditional Italian dishes join new spins on classic dishes and a wide array of beer and wine selections on the menu. Blending the freshness of fine ingredients with the magic created around a handcrafted Italian meal, Russo’s new space in Katy is inviting and warm.

“Our customers are in for a real treat in Katy,” Eduardo Haas, the local resident and entrepreneur opening the restaurant with his wife, Jessica. “Our menu consists of traditional Italian pizza, calzones and pasta dishes, created by Chef Anthony Russo, and made with fresh, all-natural ingredients. We can’t wait to share Chef Russo’s signature New York-style pizza with the community!”

Stop by and see us in Katy, or visit us here to discover more about the Russo’s New York Pizzeria franchise opportunity!

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Valentine’s Day plans with Russo’s New York Pizzeria

Sat, 13 Feb 2016 18:21:00 GMT

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GROWTH

Sun, 31 Jan 2016 16:57:00 GMT

By franchisingworld.com

Russo’s New York Pizzeria has signed a franchise agreement in the United Arab Emirates. The Houston-based Italian restaurant made the agreement with its UAE restaurant developer and operator, Prime Hospitality. The new restaurant is slated to open in early 2016.

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PIZZA MAKERS HOPE TO ROLL IN THE DOUGH IN TAMPA

Sat, 30 Jan 2016 16:58:00 GMT

By Jerome R. Stockfisch | Tribune Staff

Pie Five is planning to open 20 restaurants in the Tampa Bay area. Pie Five’s artisan pizzas are created and served in under five minutes. Provided by Pie Five.

Russo’s New York Pizzeria has more than 30 restaurants with a huge presence in Texas. This one is in Spring, Texas. Provided by Anthony Russo.

Anthony Russo displays one of his pizzas. His Russo’s New York Pizzeria has signed a five-unit developmental deal for locations across Tampa, St. Petersburg and Clearwater. Photo provided by Anthony Russo

TAMPA – We don’t have a Little Italy, and this area doesn’t merit mention in the great New York-Chicago Pizza Debate.

Nonetheless, a trio of pizza makers have set their sights on major expansions in the Tampa Bay area. Bavaro’s Pizza Napoletana & Pastaria, Russo’s New York Pizzaria and Pie Five Pizza Co. have all recently announced plans for new restaurants here this year.

“I think the culinary scene has changed a lot since we opened the restaurant,” said Dan Bavaro, who launched his flagship at the corner of Franklin and Twiggs streets in downtown Tampa in 2009.

“We opened and nobody knew the Neapolitan style. We were getting yelled at for the first 60 days: ‘What is this? I can’t get a slice? I have to buy a whole pie?’ It was a horror show,” Bavaro said. “I told my wife, ‘This is kind of scary.’ But then the patrons just started to adapt to it, and now that more pizza concepts and foodie concepts in general have opened over the last seven years, it’s like the palate has changed. We have a big following.”

Big enough to have opened a second restaurant in Winter Springs near Orlando last summer, with a third to come in April in downtown St. Petersburg. Another Tampa site is planned for May, a Bavaro’s opens in Tampa International Airport in August, a second will come to the Orlando area in September and sites are under consideration in Ocala.

Before he opened the first restaurant, Bavaro traveled to Italy to learn the art of the Neapolitan from third-generation family bakers. The restaurants feature wood-fired brick ovens imported from Naples.

“I wanted to do something original, but something that had tradition to it,” he said. “So we dialed back to 1830, and we’re creating the pizza the same way they did then.”

A pair of Texas-based chains are also getting in on the Tampa Bay pizza action.

Pie Five Pizza Co., a leading brand in the rapidly growing fast-casual pizza space, has signed a development deal to bring up to 20 new restaurants to the Bay area.

“I’d say that in the last five to eight years, Tampa looks like it is experiencing the type of growth that would lend itself to our type of venture,” said Jeffrey Parker, franchise development partner with DP5 Investments. “You’ve got good demographics, places that are going through what I’d call urban renewal, suburban areas really showing significant growth.”

Pie Five offers individual artisan pizzas that take less than five minutes from order to first bite. Customers choose combinations of toppings, and there are also handmade salads.

“I think that as this technology has developed, especially with Pie Five and the faster ovens, people like the idea of getting an individual pizza,” Parker said. “Before, you’d have to get several people to agree what the pizza’s going to taste like, order, and then wait 15 minutes. I’m an anchovy lover. You can’t get a pizza with half anchovies. It spills across the center line. This way, I can get what I want, the kids can get what they want, and everybody’s happy.”

First introduced in the Dallas area in 2011, Pie Five now has more than 80 locations in 24 states and the District of Columbia. It has more than 400 franchised and company-owned units under contract, including 28 in South Florida.

When discussing the Tampa Bay market, Anthony Russo, founder of Russo’s New York Pizzeria, gets downright boastful.

“We need good-tasting New York-style pizza in that market,” the New Jersey native said. “We need real pizza. The real deal! Our stuff is made from scratch. It’s all family recipes. It’s true Italian New York-style pizza, and the Florida market really needs it.”

Russo called the demographic profile of the Tampa Bay area “perfect,” especially due to former East Coast residents settling here.

“There’s a lot of people that live in that market who miss the good food you get in New York, they miss that little mom-and-pop place where you can get pizza and pasta in one place,” he said.

Russo opened the first New York Pizzeria in Houston in 1992. Today, he has more than 30 locations from Hawaii to Dubai, United Arab Emirates, with most in Texas. He signed a five-unit development deal for locations in SoHo in Tampa, downtown St. Petersburg and the Clearwater Mall, with two more sites to be determined.

Is there room for all this dough, sauce and toppings in the same market? Russo said he’s not concerned about competition, especially from all the new growth. Pie Five, Bavaro’s and his own mom-and-pop upscale Italian are targeting different audiences.

Pie Five’s Parker concurs.

“We see a lot of other corporations – not necessarily food-related – that are expanding into that market, as well,” he said. “We’re going to go where the people are going.”

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RUSSO’S OPENS NEWEST LOCATION IN KATY, TEXAS

Tue, 19 Jan 2016 17:00:00 GMT

By www.qsrmagazine.com

Russo’s New York Pizzeria is now open in Katy, Texas. Local residents, commuters, and visitors can now savor the tastes, aromas, and unmistakable ambiance of an authentic New York-style pizzeria. The well-known, chef-driven, fast-casual Italian restaurant franchise, that brings to life old-world charm and hospitality is open at 1708 Spring Green Blvd, #180 in the Kroeger Marketplace Plaza, which is situated in the attractive Firethorne community.

“Residents, the workforce and visitors to town are getting a true ‘slice’ of New York in Katy,” says Eduardo Haas, local resident and entrepreneur, who is opening the restaurant along with his wife, Jessica. “Our menu consists of traditional Italian pizza, calzones, and pasta dishes, created by Chef Anthony Russo, and all made with fresh ingredients. We are truly excited to share Chef Russo’s creations with the community in Katy.”

Russo’s New York Pizzeria in Katy is open for lunch and dinner with an extensive catering menu available. The traditional and inviting restaurant features a full menu of authentic New York-style pizza and Italian dishes. The restaurant blends the freshness of fine ingredients with the magic created around a handcrafted Italian meal.

“Opening our third location in Katy is a momentous occasion for Russo’s New York Pizzeria,” says Chef Russo, the creative culinary genius behind the brand who also serves as its CEO. “We couldn’t be happier that Eduardo and Jessica are carrying on the Russo’s family tradition and expanding into the Firethorne community.”

Russo’s New York Pizzeria and its traditional Italian recipes trace their origins to a tight-knit family where the kitchen was the center of activity.

Along with its sister brand, Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen, Russo’s New York Pizzeria has garnered a cult-like following for its truly authentic and delicious Italian dishes made from the freshest ingredients, and its New York-style pizza. The restaurants blend premium recipes with the freshest ingredients that are all natural with no preservatives, no additives, and zero trans-fats. Chef Russo’s family promise, “If it isn’t fresh, don’t serve it!” is the mantra of each and every franchisee who has been certified and mastered the Russo’s brand operating criteria.

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RUSSO’S NEW YORK PIZZERIA OPENS IN KATY

Tue, 19 Jan 2016 16:59:00 GMT

Authentic New York-style Pizza Arrives in the Firethorne Community

One of Katy’s most highly anticipated restaurant openings of 2016, Russo’s New York Pizzeria is now open. Local residents, commuters and visitors can now savor the tastes, aromas and unmistakable ambiance of an authentic New York-style pizzeria. The well-known, chef driven, fast casual Italian restaurant franchise, that brings to life old-world charm and hospitality is open at 1708 Spring Green Blvd, #180 in the Kroeger Marketplace Plaza, which is situated in the attractive Firethorne community.

“Residents, the workforce and visitors to town are getting a true ‘slice’ of New York in Katy,” said Eduardo Haas, local resident and entrepreneur, who is opening the restaurant along with his wife, Jessica. “Our menu consists of traditional Italian pizza, calzones and pasta dishes, created by Chef Anthony Russo, and all made with fresh ingredients. We are truly excited to share Chef Russo’s creations with the community in Katy.”

“Opening our third location in Katy is a momentous occasion for Russo’s New York Pizzeria,” said Chef Russo, the creative culinary genius behind the brand who also serves as its CEO. “We couldn’t be happier that Eduardo and Jessica are carrying on the Russo’s family tradition and expanding into the Firethorne community.”

Russo’s New York Pizzeria and its traditional Italian recipes trace their origins to a tight-knit family where the kitchen was the center of activity.

Complete Russo’s New York Pizzeria menu options are available at www.nypizzeria.com .

About Russo’s Restaurants

Russo’s Restaurants is a 46-location national and international franchisor of the fast casual and casual dining brands Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen. Based in Houston, Russo’s Restaurants is composed of a mix of corporate and franchised locations across Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Tennessee, Florida and Hawaii. Russo’s has entered international markets as well, with locations in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah, in the United Arab Emirates. There are an additional 29-plus units in development both in the United States and internationally. Chef Anthony Russo has created his concepts from years of applying his unique, family recipes featuring New York-style pizza, along with a broad variety of handcrafted pasta creations, calzones, salads, sandwiches, soups and desserts, reflecting his commitment to his New York roots where food and family come first.

To learn more about Russo’s franchise development opportunities, visit www.nypizzeria.com. For International development, contact our international franchise development manager, Suzanne Boyadjian at suzanne@nypizzeria.com or for the U.S. contact Jim Carr, director of franchise development, at j.carr@nypizzeria.com or by phone at (832) 980-6407 .

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NEW YORK-STYLE PIZZA CHAIN ACHIEVES CONSIDERABLE SUCCESS IN MIDDLE EAST

Sun, 17 Jan 2016 17:01:00 GMT

By Hanna Nakano – https://gulfnewsjournal.com

A New York-style pizzeria is making it big in the Middle East, with plans to open more than two dozen additional restaurants over the coming years.

Russo’s New York Pizzeria, a 46-location fast-casual franchisor based out of Houston, Texas, opened its first Middle East location in the UAE back in 2013. In June, the company opened an additional restaurant at the Dalma Mall in Abu Dhabi.

“The fans were clamoring for a taste of our New York-style pizza,” Chef Anthony Russo, company founder and CEO, exclusively told Gulf News Journal.

There’s a desire for authentic New York-style pizza in the Middle East, Russo said, and his restaurants are bridging that gap.

“With our handcrafted recipes, old-world charm and warm hospitality, there is nothing quite like Russo’s in the market currently,” Russo said. “We offer original Italian recipes that visitors, shoppers and local residents will fall in love with.”

The fast-casual restaurant segment is the fastest growing in the industry, according to Forbes — and Russo’s Restaurants is reaping the benefits. In 2015, Russo’s revenues were more than 10 percent higher than expected, according to the company. Even more growth is expected in 2016.

Sales at Russo’s newest openings brought in as much as $35,000 to $60,000 a week, according to the company. Annual sales surpass $1 million per location.

In the next few years, the company plans to open 28 more restaurants in the Middle East. Locations in Dubai and Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, are already in the works, Russo said.

“I have been asked numerous times why I decided to take Russo’s overseas to the Middle East,” Russo told Gulf News Journal. “My response: ‘Why not?’ We have the best tasting New York-style pizza in the fast-casual category, and the rest of our menu is filled with culinary delights. Plus, the Russo’s experience is like no other. The UAE appreciates premium brands, and Russo’s is the perfect fit.”

In addition to growth in the U.S. and in the Middle East, Russo’s Restaurants is discussing growth in France, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Canada, Mexico, the Philippines, Thailand and China, according to the company.

This global pizza expansion was not thought up in some boardroom with top executives, Russo said. Rather, it was the dream of a little boy learning to cook.

“I knew that one day I would share my passion for Italian food with the world,” Russo said. “I remember shaping cannoli around the handle of a broomstick with my grandmother when I was 12 in our New Jersey kitchen.”

Russo’s Restaurants — marketed as Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen and Russo’s New York Pizzeria — will exhibit its classic Italian food and New York-style pizza at the Gulfood 2016 trade show at the Dubai World Trade Center in February.

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EXCHANGE RATE

Fri, 01 Jan 2016 17:01:00 GMT

BY JULIE KNUDSON – www.qsrmagazine.com

As quick serves expand into foreign regions, the cost landscape also changes.

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RUSSO’S FRANCHISEES EMBRACE ENTREPRENEURIAL DREAMS

Fri, 06 Nov 2015 18:22:00 GMT

Visions of business ownership are not far from the minds of many budding entrepreneurs, and the Russo’s Restaurant franchise system is helping people take the first step toward their dreams.

Jessica and Eduardo Haas know this feeling all too well. They’re getting ready to open a Russo’s New York Pizzeria in Katy, Texas this December.

Recently, the Haas’ were featured in The Katy Rancher, a local publication, where their backgrounds and journey to entrepreneurship were explored as they shared more about how they got started in business ownership in Katy.

“We decided that it was perfect timing to give the community something that they want and need and we also believe in paying back to our community,” Jessica said in the article. “We don’t only want to have a restaurant, we want to be part of the community and be involved.”

Click here to read the full article in The Katy Rancher.

Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen provide opportunities for qualified entrepreneurs to own and operate a popular, community-oriented restaurant in new and upcoming, as well as existing, lifestyle centers, strip centers and standalone locations. Chef-driven Italian menu items complement the casual, family-friendly atmosphere in more than locations worldwide. Click here to learn more about available franchising opportunities with Russo’s Restaurants.

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NAKHEEL AWARDS DH2.3 BILLION DEALS FOR MAJOR PROJECTS

Sun, 18 Oct 2015 17:02:00 GMT

By khaleejtimes.com

Nakheel has awarded construction contracts worth nearly Dh2.3 billion for three major projects in its growing retail portfolio, the developer announced on Saturday.

The Dubai-based firm, which developed palm-shaped Jumeirah islands, has confirmed the builders of Deira Islands Night Souk, Warsan Souk and The Circle Mall, which, combined, offer nearly 2.3 million square feet of retail space and over 6,700 shopping, dining and entertainment outlets.

Nakheel’s retail project portfolio is expected to become the biggest in the UAE, with 10 new large-scale developments and a growing collection of community retail centres on the way. The company has more than 10 million square feet of leasable retail space in the pipeline, adding to the 3.4 million already in operation at its Dragon Mart and Ibn Battuta Mall developments.

The company has awarded Dh1.17 billion contract to United Engineering Construction for Deira Islands Night Souk and Boardwalk; Dh775 million contract to Ginco General Contracting for Warsan Souk; and Dh353.75 million contract to Gulf Technical Construction Company for The Circle Mall.

Deira Islands Night Souk will stretch almost 2km along Deira Islands’ waterfront and boast 5,300 shops and nearly 100 quayside cafes and restaurants.

Located just across from mainland Dubai, the Night Souk will be easily accessible by road and water, and within walking distance of hotels, residences and Deira Mall, Nakheel’s other major retail project at the islands.

All 1.2 million square feet of leasable space at the Night Souk was snapped up by budding Emirati entrepreneurs within five days of its launch. The Night Souk will bring together a new generation of local traders at Dubai’s oldest and most traditional business hub, and is set to be one of Dubai’s biggest new attractions for residents and tourists. Construction of the Night Souk is due for completion in 2018.

Warsan Souk is a new retail complex with 1,170 shops including two department stores and 30 cafes and restaurants with indoor and outdoor dining. Located between Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road and Manama Road, next to International City, Warsan Souk will be a vibrant, modern destination, innovatively-designed as a modern take on the traditional souk. With 650,000sqft of retail space, the souk will be spread across eight buildings, each comprising two floors of retail with three-bedroom townhouses – 433 in total – built above.

Already fully leased and due for completion in 2018, Warsan Souk forms part of Nakheel’s Warsan Village gated community of 934 homes, currently under construction.

Located at Jumeirah Village Circle, one of Nakheel’s largest master communities, The Circle Mall has 432,000sqft of retail space housing 235 shops, a multi-screen cinema, a health clinic, a multitude of cafes and restaurants and a food court.

The Circle Mall, strategically positioned Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road, Al Khail Road and Hessa Street, will serve hundreds of thousands of people living in Jumeirah Village and surrounding areas, and provide a new leisure destination for residents and tourists across the rest of Dubai. Around half of the leasable space at Circle Mall is booked. Construction will begin shortly, with anticipated completion in early 2018.

Confirmed tenants at The Circle Mall include Spinneys, Oscar Cinemas, Sports Market, Early Learning Centre, Mamas & Papas, Grand Optics, Tips & Toes, Bare Salon and Supercare Pharmacy. Cafes and restaurants coming to The Circle Mall include Jamaica Blue, Café Nero, London Dairy, Wendy’s, Barbecue Delights, Russo’s New York Pizzeria, Nando and Al Arrab.

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RUSSO’S OUTPERFORMS 2015 SALES PROJECTIONS

Wed, 07 Oct 2015 17:04:00 GMT

By https://www.qsrmagazine.com

An innovative new menu featuring more than a dozen new, made-from-scratch dishes such as Chicken Kale Pizza; sales increases surging 10 times the industry average; and franchise growth that is reinforcing the brand as a global phenomenon-these attributes ensure that Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen are well on their way to extreme global stardom.

Russo’s Restaurants, the family of dining concepts, which includes both Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen, announced restaurant revenue increases that are nearly 10 percent (9.8 percent) higher than original 2015 projections. This extraordinary performance is accelerating strategic plans for U.S. and international expansion.

Amid an exceptional year, Russo’s plans to open an additional seven restaurants by the end of 2015 throughout lucrative markets such as Austin, Dallas, Houston, and the Middle East. And, to build on this, 2016 stands to be the brands’ most aggressive growth phase yet.

“We have continued to outperform our sales projections each year. For instance, in 2014, Russo’s Restaurants generated sales increases system-wide of more than 20 percent compared to the year prior,” says Anthony Russo, the creative culinary mind, founder, and CEO of Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen. “Remarkably, this year we’re ahead of our 2014 performance-dramatically outpacing the pizza segment and the overall restaurant industry. The numbers are outstanding, and our model is to thank.”

Highlighting the performance of Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen, average unit volume at the restaurants surpasses $1 million annually. The most recent Russo’s opening saw weekly sales incomes between $35,000 to $60,000. Almost unheard of in the industry, Russo’s branded restaurants are profitable during their first year of operations.

Chef Russo’s creativity and commitment to expanding his menu to meet growing consumer demands for heart-healthy options and strengthening the depth and breadth of his authentically Italian selections continues to strengthen the brands. He clearly demonstrates and reflects the growing trend among fast casual diners for chef-driven concepts with authentic recipes and chef-inspired culinary cuisine.

Russo’s Restaurants kicked off 2015 with openings at the Spring Market Place in the Houston market and The Rim in San Antonio. International openings have included The Dalma Mall in Abu Dhabi. Plus, there are additional planned openings in Dubai, Katy (Texas) Austin and Brownsville (Texas) later this year. Currently, there are 12 restaurants projected to open in 2016.

“We are advancing our strategic growth plan in 2016 with plans to add 20 to 30 restaurants in the next three years. The new phase of franchising will more than double our number of international and domestic locations,” says Jim Carr, director of franchise development for Russo’s Restaurants. “In addition to growth in U.S. markets, we are in discussions with developers in France, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Canada, Mexico, the Philippines, Thailand, and China. The world is becoming infatuated with Russo’s.”

The majority of Russo’s Restaurants locations are in south central Texas. There are additional U.S. multiunit franchise opportunities throughout attractive markets in Texas, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Florida, Hawaii, and internationally. Plus, territories throughout the Great Plains, South, and East Coast are key expansion regions.

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Chef Anthony Featured on Popular Food Site Serious Eats

Wed, 07 Oct 2015 14:35:00 GMT

Chef Anthony Russo is a respected name in the culinary world, and his innovative approach to fresh Italian cuisine inspired by his family recipes continues to impress the media.

Recently, Chef Anthony was featured in a series of columns on trendsetting food and cooking site Serious Eats . He provided creative, approachable expertise about how to use common pantry items in new and unique ways. He spoke about risotto , corn , buttermilk , tahini and cauliflower and inspired Serious Eats’ online readership of around 5 million unique monthly visitors to explore new ways to use common ingredients.

In addition to its online traction, Serious Eats has a dedicated social media following of approximately 130,000 Facebook followers, 340,000 Twitter followers and 110,000 Pinterest followers. All in all, Chef Anthony’s articles garnered more than 27 million impressions, spreading the Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen names to the far reaches of the globe.

When you join the Russo’s Restaurants franchise, you’re not just buying a restaurant. You’re joining a team of dedicated culinary professionals who are leading the restaurant industry with the latest trends, infusing innovation with a rich Italian history.

Each of the Russo’s concepts are chef-driven, which is extremely attractive to fast casual diners. A recent Zagat survey noted that 78 percent of guests are strongly in favor of restaurants that are chef-inspired and chef-driven.

For more information on Chef Anthony and the franchise opportunity, click here .

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CHEF-DRIVEN RUSSO’S RESTAURANTS CONCEPTS OUTPERFORM 2015 SALES PROJECTIONS; COMPANY’S MOST ROBUST GROWTH PHASE IN HISTORY

Tue, 06 Oct 2015 18:23:00 GMT

By https://www.franchising.com

Unique Fast-Casual New York Pizzeria and Upscale Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen with Fresh-to-Order Menus Accelerate US and International Expansion

October 06, 2015 // Franchising.com // HOUSTON – An innovative new menu featuring more than a dozen new made-from-scratch dishes such as Chicken Kale Pizza; sales increases surging 10-times the industry average; and franchise growth that is reinforcing the brand as a global phenomenon – these attributes are insuring that Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen are well on their way to extreme global stardom.

Russo’s Restaurants, the family of dining concepts, which includes both Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen, announced today restaurant revenue increases that are nearly 10 percent (9.8 percent) higher than original 2015 projections. This extraordinary performance is accelerating strategic plans for U.S. and international expansion.

Amid an exceptional year, Russo’s plans to open an additional seven restaurants by the end of 2015 throughout lucrative markets such as Austin, Dallas, Houston and the Middle East. And, to build on this, 2016 stands to be the brands’ most aggressive growth phase yet.

“We have continued to outperform our sales projections each year. For instance, in 2014, Russo’s Restaurants generated sales increases systemwide of more than 20 percent compared to the year prior,” said Anthony Russo, the creative culinary mind, founder and CEO of Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen. “Remarkably, this year we’re ahead of our 2014 performance – dramatically outpacing the pizza segment and the overall restaurant industry. The numbers are outstanding, and our model is to thank.”

Russo’s Restaurants offers a rare franchise opportunity for entrepreneurs interested in proven brands that are entirely chef-created, chef-inspired and chef-driven. The franchise investment for Russo’s New York Pizzeria in spaces from 1,500 sf to 3,500 sf is between $350,000 and $700,000 per location. For Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen in spaces from 3,800 sf to 7,000 sf, the franchise investment ranges between $750,000 and $1,400,000 per location. Both vary depending on the market and restaurant square footage.

“We are advancing our strategic growth plan in 2016 with plans to add 20 to 30 restaurants in the next three years. The new phase of franchising will more than double our number of international and domestic locations,” said Jim Carr, director of franchise development for Russo’s Restaurants. “In addition to growth in U.S. markets, we are in discussions with developers in France, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Canada, Mexico, the Philippines, Thailand and China. The world is becoming infatuated with Russo’s”

The majority of Russo’s Restaurants locations are in south central Texas. There are additional U.S. multi-unit franchise opportunities throughout attractive markets in Texas, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Florida, Hawaii and internationally. Plus, territories throughout the Great Plains, South and East Coast are key expansion regions.

Today, Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen have garnered a cult-like following for their truly authentic and delicious Italian dishes made from the freshest ingredients in addition to several varieties of New York-style pizza. The restaurants blend premium recipes with the magic created around a homemade Italian meal.

“If it’s not fresh, we don’t serve it! It’s our family promise,” said Russo. “The emphasis on quality food is apparent from our menu creations to our open kitchen concept. We want our guests to know that serving great food is our number one priority.”

The family-centered restaurant surrounds diners with warm, inviting décor to enjoy heart-healthy menu items made fresh without preservatives, additives or trans fats. Beyond the brands’ specialty pizzas, menu items include fresh salads, soups and made-from-scratch sauces and pastas. Authentic Italian cannoli, fresh-baked, Italian flatbread sandwiches and, of course, hand-tossed pizzas are just some of the distinctive craveable items on the menu.

ABOUT RUSSO’S RESTAURANTS
Russo’s Restaurants is a 46-location national and international franchisor of the fast casual and casual dining brands Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen. Based in Houston, Russo’s Restaurants are composed of a mix of corporate and franchised locations across Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Tennessee, Florida and Hawaii. Russo’s has entered international markets as well, with locations in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah, in the United Arab Emirates. There are an additional 29-plus units in development both in the United States and internationally. Chef Anthony Russo has created his concepts from years of applying his unique, family recipes featuring New York-style pizza, along with a broad variety of handcrafted pasta creations, calzones, salads, sandwiches, soups and desserts, reflecting his commitment to his New York roots where food and family come first. To learn more about Russo’s franchise development opportunities, visit www.franchiserussos.com.

For international franchise development, contact our international franchise development manager, Suzanne Boyadjian at suzanne@nypizzeria.com . For domestic franchising, contact Jim Carr, director of franchise development at j.carr@nypizzeria.com or by phone at (832) 980-6407.

SOURCE Russo’s Restaurants

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RUSSO’S RESTAURANTS CONCEPTS OUTPERFORM 2015 SALES PROJECTIONS

Tue, 06 Oct 2015 17:06:00 GMT

By https://www.fsrmagazine.com

Russo’s Restaurants, a family of dining concepts that includes both Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen, announced restaurant revenue increases that are nearly 10 percent (9.8 percent) higher than original 2015 projections. This performance is accelerating strategic plans for U.S. and international expansion.

Amid a strong year, Russo’s plans to open an additional seven restaurants by the end of 2015 throughout lucrative markets such as Texas cities Austin, Dallas, and Houston, and the Middle East. And, to build on this, 2016 stands to be the brands’ most aggressive growth phase yet.

“We have continued to outperform our sales projections each year. For instance, in 2014, Russo’s Restaurants generated sales increases systemwide of more than 20 percent compared to the year prior,” says Anthony Russo, the creative culinary mind, founder and CEO of Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen. “Remarkably, this year we’re ahead of our 2014 performance – dramatically outpacing the pizza segment and the overall restaurant industry. The numbers are outstanding, and our model is to thank.”

Russo’s Restaurants kicked off 2015 with openings at the Spring Market Place in the Houston market and The Rim in San Antonio. International openings have included The Dalma Mall in Abu Dhabi. Plus, there are additional planned openings in Dubai, Katy [Texas], Austin, and Brownsville [Texas] later this year. Currently, there are 12 restaurants projected to open in 2016.

The majority of Russo’s Restaurants locations are in south central Texas. There are additional U.S. multi-unit franchise opportunities throughout attractive markets in Texas, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Florida, Hawaii, and internationally. Plus, territories throughout the Great Plains, South, and East Coast are key expansion regions.

“If it’s not fresh, we don’t serve it. It’s our family promise,” Russo says. “The emphasis on quality food is apparent from our menu creations to our open kitchen concept. We want our guests to know that serving great food is our number one priority.”

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RUSSO’S RESTAURANTS OUTPERFORM 2015 SALES PROJECTIONS

Tue, 06 Oct 2015 17:05:00 GMT

By https://www.fastcasual.com

Russo’s Restaurants, which includes Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen, announced that restaurant revenue increases are 9.8 percent higher than original 2015 projections. This performance is accelerating strategic plans for U.S. and international expansion, according to a company press release. Russo’s plans to open an additional seven restaurants by the end of 2015 throughout markets such as Austin, Dallas, Houston and the Middle East.

“We have continued to outperform our sales projections each year. For instance, in 2014, Russo’s Restaurants generated sales increases systemwide of more than 20 percent compared to the year prior,” said Anthony Russo, founder and CEO of Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen. “Remarkably, this year we’re ahead of our 2014 performance – dramatically outpacing the pizza segment and the overall restaurant industry. The numbers are outstanding, and our model is to thank.”

Highlighting the performance of Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen, average unit volume at the restaurants surpasses $1 million annually, the release stated.

“We are advancing our strategic growth plan in 2016 with plans to add 20 to 30 restaurants in the next three years. The new phase of franchising will more than double our number of international and domestic locations,” said Jim Carr, director of franchise development for Russo’s Restaurants.””In addition to growth in U.S. markets, we are in discussions with developers in France, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Canada, Mexico, the Philippines, Thailand and China. The world is becoming infatuated with Russo’s.”

Based in Houston, Russo’s Restaurants are composed of a mix of corporate and franchised stores in 46 locations.

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LOCAL ENTREPRENEUR TO OPEN RUSSO’S NEW YORK PIZZERIA – AGREEMENT SIGNED TO BRING FAST CASUAL ITALIAN CONCEPT TO AUSTIN

Thu, 01 Oct 2015 18:23:00 GMT

AUSTIN, Texas – Original dining experience and signature restaurant concept Russo’s New York Pizzeria readies itself to serve the residents and visitors of Austin authentic Italian meals come late 2015.

Local resident and experienced restaurateur Amin Esar has signed a franchise agreement with Russo’s Restaurants to open a Russo’s New York Pizzeria in Austin. The well-known Houston-based Italian restaurant will offer lunch and dinner with the options of dining in, carrying out, delivery, and catering. This will be Austin’s first Russo’s New York Pizzeria, with another location situated nearby in Pflugerville and another on the way in Cedar Park.

“Austin has an undeniable demand for a genuine Italian dining experience, and we offer original family recipes that visitors and locals alike will find themselves craving,” said Chef Anthony Russo, founder and CEO of Russo’s Restaurants. “The residential and commercial districts of Austin are growing at a great pace and we’re happy to be a part of this thriving city.”

After almost 15 years in the restaurant business, Esar knows his trade well. He brings extensive experience as a restaurant owner and enjoys being a part of everyday operations in the restaurant and interacting with the customers. Esar’s work in the industry and his familiarity with his customers makes him an ideal choice for a Russo’s franchisee. “With Amin at the helm of operations here in Austin, we’re confident that our New York-style pizza and handcrafted recipes will reach an entirely new section of loyal fans,” said Chef Anthony.

The Russo’s name has become synonymous with New York-style pizza and authentic Italian meals. Beyond the brand’s specialty pizzas, menu items include fresh salads (insalata), soups (zuppe) and homemade pastas. Authentic Italian cannoli, fresh seafood, chicken, veal and flatbread sandwiches are just some of the distinctive dishes on the menu.

“We are continuing to advance our strategic growth plan in 2015 with plans to add 20 to 30 restaurants in the next three years. The new phase of franchising will more than double our number of international locations,” said Jim Carr, director of franchise development for Russo’s Restaurants. “In addition to the Middle East markets, we are in early discussions with developers in France, Canada, Mexico, the Philippines and China.”

Today, Russo’s New York Pizzeria has garnered a cult-like following for its truly authentic and delicious Italian dishes made from the freshest ingredients and its New York-style pizza. The restaurant blends premium recipes with the magic created around a homemade Italian meal.

The new Russo’s New York Pizzeria menu is available for viewing at: www.nypizzeria.com .

About Russo’s Restaurants

Russo’s Restaurants is a 44 location national and international franchisor of the fast casual and casual dining brands Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen. Based in Houston, Russo’s Restaurants are composed of a mix of corporate and franchised locations across Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Tennessee, Florida and Hawaii. Russo’s has entered international markets as well, with locations in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah, in the United Arab Emirates. There are an additional 29-plus units in development both in the United States and internationally. Chef Anthony Russo has created his concepts from years of applying his unique, family recipes featuring New York-style pizza, along with a broad variety of handcrafted pasta creations, calzones, salads, sandwiches, soups and desserts, reflecting his commitment to his New York roots where food and family come first.

To learn more about Russo’s franchise development opportunities, visit www.nypizzeria.com . For International development, contact our international franchise development manager, Suzanne Boyadjian at suzanne@nypizzeria.com or for the U.S. contact Jim Carr, director of franchise development at j.carr@nypizzeria.com or by phone at (832) 980-6407.

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RUSSO’S NEW YORK PIZZERIA – RESTAURATEUR SAW SUCCESS FROM THE START

Wed, 30 Sep 2015 17:07:00 GMT

By Kirsten Peek – Community Impact

Brad Davis, owner of the Pflugerville location of Russo’s New York Pizzeria, said he knew his restaurant and the city of Pflugerville would be a match from the beginning. After working in the restaurant industry for 20 years, Davis opened his own Russo’s franchise in Pflugerville in October 2013.

“Texas has four major food groups,” Davis said. “Pizza, Mexican food, barbecue and hamburgers. It was a no-brainer.”

Davis and his wife, Angela, moved from Austin to Pflugerville shortly after getting married. Angela manages the marketing for the restaurant in addition to working a full-time job. They now have triplet sons who frequently spend time at the restaurant.

“I love Pflugerville,” Davis said. “The big city is just a couple miles away, but we still have a small-town feeling here.”

The Pizzeria also expanded in April to add additional waiting space as well as an area to accommodate deliveries and pickup orders.

Davis said he likes to stay involved in the community by frequently hosting sports and school spirit nights at Russo’s. Davis said he also offers a Straight A program periodically to reward children with good grades with free pizza.

Davis said many of the staff members have been at Russo’s since day one. The staff is composed of predominately full-time employees, plus a few part-time staff members who are in college or high school, he said.

“The staff is like family, which is also how we try to treat our customers,” Davis said.

Davis said the service offered at Russo’s is one of the qualities that makes the restaurant unique. He said the restaurant also stands out because it only uses fresh ingredients, and everything is made to order. Any pizza can be made on gluten-free crust, he said.

“My house is right across the street, but I live here,” Davis said. “I love having new challenges every day. I get to know our regulars, but I also get to meet new people every day. It’s great.”

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Russo’s Restaurants Founder & Ceo Shares His Thoughts on Growth!

Thu, 10 Sep 2015 14:38:00 GMT

“Our Franchise Partners have done an outstanding job of representing our brands and have consistently delivered the level of customer service excellence that has become synonymous with our core values. We have an in-depth marketing push through traditional media outlets and a dedicated focus on utilizing social media to connect with our customers and guests across our entire network of restaurants, world-wide. A 2015 independent survey hosted by the Franchise Business Review group, ranked Russo’s as a top franchise in the areas of Leadership, Support, Community, Opportunity and Core Values. In addition our Franchise Partners have consistently lived up to our family tradition in executing our corporate credo”, “If It Isn’t Fresh, Don’t Serve It”!

About Russo’s Restaurants

With over 70 locations open or under development in Texas, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Florida, Hawaii and the Middle East, Russo’s Restaurants is experiencing growth both domestically and internationally. For more information and to learn how you can take advantage of a solid investment opportunity, please visit our website at: www.nypizzeria.com/franchise .

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ITALIAN TREATS SERVED FRESH HEAD TO RUSSO’S NEW YORK PIZZERIA AT THE DELMA MALL FOR AUTHENTIC FLAVOURS

Wed, 02 Sep 2015 17:08:00 GMT

By Anjana Sankar, Senior Reporter – gulfnews.com

Abu Dhabi: If you love pizza but are bored with the ones you get at food courts in malls, then head to Russo’s New York Pizzeria at the Delma Mall for a great Italian treat.

You can feast on some authentic brick oven pizzas, pastas and more at this Italian eatery that runs on a simple culinary ethic – “If it is not fresh, don’t serve it!”

The first taste of freshness came in a tall glass of chilled passion fruit mojito with muddled mint that felt so refreshing.

For antipasti, we tried eggplant rollatini which had lightly breaded eggplant stuffed with ricotta cheese and all-natural mozzarella, served in a tomato cream sauce, parmesan cheese and extra virgin olive oil.

The buffalo chicken wings were juicy and packed with flavours – exactly the way I like it. The crunchy celeries and ranch dressing made a great bite and dip.

There is a good selection of salads and zuppe as well.

For pizza lovers, the variety is good enough to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters. The pizza napoletana is extra thin, square-crust and prepared and hand-tossed to order. You can pick your favourite from soho, paisano, bresaola rucola and Italian village, to name a few.

The calzones pizzas come stuffed with your favourite ingredient, folded and oven baked and served with a side of marinara sauce. For vegetarians, there is a special ‘heart-healthy veggie pizza’.

Our favourites were New York Village pizza with beef pepperoni, Italian beef, mushrooms, black olives, white onions and mozzarella, and a ‘make-your-own pizza’ we made with grilled chicken and bell peppers. The crust was neither too thin nor too thick, and the toppings, even when you individually tasted them, excelled in their freshness and taste.

I was equally impressed with the chicken pesto pasta as the homemade pesto sauce struck all the right notes on my tastebuds.

For dessert lovers, Russo’s has some amazing homemade cakes like the colossal New York cheesecake that you would want to devour.

The Russo’s menu is sure to get you to over-eat, and that is the only thing you have to be wary of.

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RUSSO’S NEW YORK PIZZERIA SIGNS FOUR-UNIT DEVELOPMENT DEAL

Sat, 15 Aug 2015 21:24:00 GMT

Renowned South Texas Development Group to Open Fast Casual New York Pizzeria Locations in Rio Grande Valley

HOUSTON – Russo’s New York Pizzeria, the authentic New York-style pizza fast casual dining experience complete with handcrafted Italian recipes passed down from generations, announced today a multi-unit agreement that further advances the company’s strategic growth initiative.

The Houston-based brand, which has a collection of more than 73 restaurants open or under development, has completed the deal with VKL Franchise, LLC. The experienced team of entrepreneurs currently run more than 100 franchise businesses in south Texas including several restaurants.

“The newly formed deal with VKL Franchise, LLC represents a significant step in our franchise development strategy,” said Chef Anthony Russo, founder and CEO of Russo’s Restaurants. “Russo’s has the ability to fully immerse itself into the fabric of many of America’s most attractive communities, and we are thrilled to introduce our unique and beloved brand to new markets throughout this attractive region.” Gabriel Kauachi, Jorge Kauachi and Javier Lara are the principal operating partners behind the four new Russo’s New York Pizzeria planned for Brownsville, Harlingen, Laredo and South Padre Island in Texas. The first location in Brownsville is expected to open this fall.

“Russo’s New York Pizzeria is an obvious fit for south Texas and the Rio Grande Valley. Brownsville, Harlingen, Laredo and South Padre Island are in for a delicious New York-style pizza surprise,” said Gabriel Kauachi. “The brand is in a prime position for growth and we’re proud to be the group carrying on its rich history and family tradition.”

Russo’s New York Pizzeria has garnered a cult-like following for its truly authentic and delicious Italian dishes made from the freshest ingredients and its New York-style pizza. The restaurant blends the freshness of fine ingredients with the magic created around a homemade Italian meal.

Highlighting the performance of Russo’s New York Pizzeria and its upscale sister brand Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen, is the nearly 24 percent average net profit, which includes average food costs of less than 21 percent, a figure well below the national average for the fast casual pizza/Italian sector. Plus, the brands’ average unit volume surpasses $1 million. The most recent Russo’s opening saw weekly sales between $35,000 to $60,000. Russo’s branded restaurants are profitable during their first year of operations.

For proven restaurant operations teams and driven entrepreneurs interested in pizza franchise opportunities, most commercial loans require a low down payment of 20 to 30 percent of the total investment to launch a restaurant. Moreover, Russo’s works with a collection of preferred third party financing sources to support its franchisees.

For more information, please visit www.nypizzeria.com .

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LOCAL ENTREPRENEURIAL COUPLE SIGNS LEASE TO OPEN RUSSO’S NEW YORK PIZZERIA IN KATY

Wed, 12 Aug 2015 21:03:00 GMT

Authentic New York Style Pizzeria to Open at the Firethorne Community Later This Year

KATY, Texas – Russo’s New York Pizzeria announced today a signed deal to bring the authentically Italian fast-casual restaurant to the Firethorne community in Katy later this year. Local entrepreneurs Eduardo and Jessica Haas will open their restaurant in the attractive residential and retail area, located at 1708 Spring Green Blvd, #180, in November 2015.

“There’s no denying the demand for quality Italian dining options here in Katy. We offer original Italian recipes that visitors and local residents will fall in love with,” said Chef Anthony Russo, founder and CEO of Russo’s Restaurants. “As the city grows, the community seeks newer, fresher concepts that are fun for the entire family. We can’t wait to give our loyal fans even more of what they crave – delicious, New York-style pizza and handcrafted Italian recipes in a cool and trendy interior that is a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere.”

The Russo’s name has become synonymous with delicious New York-style pizza and authentic Italian meals. Beyond the brand’s specialty pizzas, menu items include fresh salads (insalata), soups (zuppe) and homemade pastas. Authentic Italian cannoli, fresh seafood, chicken, veal and flatbread sandwiches are just some of the distinctive dishes on the menu.

“If it’s not fresh, we don’t serve it,” said Russo. “The emphasis on quality food is apparent from our menu creations to our open kitchen concept. We want our guests to know that serving great food is our No. 1 priority.”

The majority of Russo’s Restaurants locations are in south central Texas. There are additional multi-unit franchise opportunities throughout Texas, in the Greater Houston market, as well as San Antonio, Austin and Dallas-Fort Worth. This will be Katy’s fourth New York Pizzeria – existing locations are on Echo Lane, Westgreen Road and Cinco Ranch.

Today, Russo’s New York Pizzeria has garnered a cult-like following for their truly authentic and delicious Italian dishes made from the freshest ingredients and its New York-style pizza. The restaurants blend premium recipes with the magic created around a homemade Italian meal.

For more information, please visit www.nypizzeria.com .

About Russo’s Restaurants

Russo’s Restaurants is a 44 location national and international franchisor of the fast casual and casual dining brands Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen. Based in Houston, Russo’s Restaurants are composed of a mix of corporate and franchised locations across Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Tennessee, Florida and Hawaii. Russo’s has entered international markets as well, with locations in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah, in the United Arab Emirates. There are an additional 29-plus units in development both in the United States and Internationally. Chef Anthony Russo has created his concepts from years of applying his unique, family recipes featuring New York-style pizza, along with a broad variety of handcrafted pasta creations, calzones, salads, sandwiches, soups and desserts, reflecting his commitment to his New York roots where food and family come first. To learn more about Russo’s franchise development opportunities, visit www.nypizzeria.com . For International development, contact our international franchise development manager, Suzanne Boyadjian at suzanne@nypizzeria.com or for the U.S. contact Jim Carr, director of franchise development at j.carr@nypizzeria.com or by phone at (832) 980-6407.

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Authentic Italian Restaurant Arrives In San Antonio With Highly Anticipated Opening of Russo’s Coal-Fire Italian Kitchen

Sat, 01 Aug 2015 20:15:00 GMT

Upscale Italian Restaurant Opens at The Rim

SAN ANTONIO – The wait is over in San Antonio.

Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen has arrived as one of San Antonio’s most highly anticipated restaurant openings. Local residents, commuters and visitors can now savor the tastes, aromas and unmistakable ambiance of the upscale Italian restaurant brimming with old-world charm and hospitality. Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen opens at the premium mixed-use residential and shopping destination, The Rim, located at 17631 La Cantera Pkwy, off of I-10, just north of the 1604 Loop in San Antonio.

“From the moment customers walk in, they will know they’ve come somewhere special. They’re getting a truly authentic experience,” said Paula Matthews, General Manager of Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen in San Antonio. “Everything is made with fresh ingredients. From our crispy coal-fired pizza and calzones to our baked pastas, handmade meatballs and specialty seafood pastas, we serve traditional Italian dishes just the way our guests expect.”

Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen in San Antonio is open for lunch and dinner with an extensive catering menu available. The sleek and inviting restaurant features an open kitchen where guests can see their food being prepared and dishes coming out of the massive coal-fired oven. The unique, open design, which reflects local flair, also includes a wide bar with an impressive selection of locally sourced and imported Italian wines. The bar will also serve beers from Pearl Brewing Company and Lone Star Brewery, as well as locally sourced craft brews. At more than 3,500 square feet, the Italian eatery also features a 1,000-square-foot outdoor patio.

“Opening in San Antonio is a momentous occasion for Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen,” said company CEO Anthony Russo, a formally trained chef who opened his first Russo’s New York Pizzeria in 1992. “We couldn’t be happier about carrying on the Russo’s tradition with a new restaurant in San Antonio.”

Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen and its traditional Italian recipes trace their origins to a tight-knit family where the kitchen was the center of all activity. As a young child, Anthony Russo helped his grandmother roll dough for cannoli, carefully wrapping it around four-inch wooden broomsticks to get the right shape before cooking. By the age of 12, Anthony was learning authentic Italian recipes and spent many summers in Sicily and Milan training with Italian chefs. After earning the Chef’s distinction at 18, Anthony honed his skills as a culinary expert working in his parent’s fine Italian restaurant and then opened his own pizzeria while still a young man. He then opened Anthony’s Pizzeria in Clear Lake, Texas, and later two restaurants in Houston; one named Café Anthony and the other named Russo Café Anthony, an upscale Italian restaurant. After establishing himself as a household name in Houston, he launched Russo’s New York Pizzeria in 1992, followed three years later by Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen.

Complete Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen menu options are available at www.russoscoalfired.com.

About Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen

Presenting a true authentic Italian experience, Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen lives by a family promise that dates back more than half a century, “If it isn’t fresh, don’t serve it.” This phrase has guided Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen since founder Anthony Russo opened his first restaurant more than two decades ago. The brand’s success has inspired the launch a number of successful franchises, and today more than 44 Russo’s restaurants are operating globally and dozens more are expected to open in the next three to five years. The concept has gained recognition for its remarkably fresh food and authentic Italian specialties. Preparation of pure ingredients and the execution of memorable Italian food keep customers coming back for more. Chef Russo’s commitment to maintaining the freshest products insures that all customers who walk through the door, irrespective of which Russo’s location, receive the bona fide Russo’s experience.

For more information about Russo’s Restaurants visit www.nypizzeria.com . To learn about available franchise opportunities call (855) 978-7767. For International development, contact our international franchise development manager, Suzanne Boyadjian at suzanne@nypizzeria.com or for the U.S. contact Jim Carr, director of franchise development at j.carr@nypizzeria.com or by phone at (832) 980-6407.

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RUSSO’S RESTAURANTS TARGETS REGIONAL GROWTH THROUGHOUT HAWAII

Mon, 20 Jul 2015 18:24:00 GMT

Unique Fast-Casual New York Pizzeria and Upscale Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen Concepts Announce Strategic Expansion Plan Across Hawaiian Islands

EWA BEACH, Hawaii – Chef Anthony Russo, the founder of dining concepts that include Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen, announced today plans to expand the brands’ footprint in the Hawaiian islands in order to continue his growth plan in key markets.

“Hawaii’s first franchised Russo’s restaurant has become the favorite choice for authentic Italian in the Aloha State,” said Chef Anthony, a formally trained chef who opened his first Russo’s New York Pizzeria in 1992 and later introduced the upscale Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen. “Our plan is to add two additional locations to Oahu, Maui, Kona and Hawaii over the next 12 to 18 months, resulting in a strong showing of Chef Anthony’s restaurant concepts. Each location will add 25 to 30 new jobs and boost the local economies while enhancing the city’s revenue stream.”

Already established in Ewa Beach with a thriving Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen, franchise partner Robert Carlisle has experienced excellent results by delivering exceptional guest service, crafting delicious Italian selections and providing an engaging customer experience, which has resulted in strong sales. Chef Anthony’s unique menu features its signature Coal-Fired Pizzas along with a broad selection of handmade pasta dishes, made-from-scratch Italian selections and fresh all natural salads, all true to Chef Russo’s Italian roots where food and family come first.

Russo’s charts 2015 with openings in Spring, San Antonio, Katy and Brownsville, Texas and celebrates the signing of two additional units in Austin and locations in Harlingen, Laredo and South Padre Island, Texas. An additional 10-12 restaurants are planned to be signed this year throughout Texas markets like Dallas, Houston, San Antonio and Austin. Currently, in all, there are 28 Russo’s restaurants in development system-wide.

Entrepreneurs who have been searching for an authentic New York Pizzeria concept with a unique Italian menu are finding just that with the Russo’s brands and proven franchise system.

“With Hawaii’s growing economy and room on the islands for more of our authentic Italian options, the state offers access to promising locations. We anticipate a very successful expansion with our established brands and a management team committed to supporting our franchisees every step of the way, we’re confident in our future with Hawaii,” said Chef Anthony.

Russo’s Restaurants offers a rare franchise opportunity for entrepreneurs interested in proven brands that are entirely chef created, chef inspired and chef driven. Interested franchise prospects should have between $600,000 and $1 million net worth per location, and $175,000 to $400,000 in liquid assets. Prospective candidates can find out more by visiting www.franchiserussos.com.

About Russo’s Restaurants

Russo’s Restaurants is a 44 location national and international franchisor of the fast casual and casual dining brands Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen. Based in Houston, Russo’s Restaurants are composed of a mix of corporate and franchised locations across Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Tennessee, Florida and Hawaii. Russo’s has entered international markets as well, with locations in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah, in the United Arab Emirates. There are an additional 28-plus units in development both in the United States and Internationally. Chef Anthony Russo has created his concepts from years of applying his unique, family recipes featuring New York-style pizza, along with a broad variety of handcrafted pasta creations, calzones, salads, sandwiches, soups and desserts, reflecting his commitment to his New York roots where food and family come first. To learn more about Russo’s franchise development opportunities, visit www.nypizzeria.com . For franchise development in the U.S. and Mexico, contact Jim Carr, director of franchise development at j.carr@nypizzeria.com or by phone at (832) 980-6407.

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FIRST SAUDI ARABIAN RUSSO’S NEW YORK PIZZERIA – FRANCHISE COMING TO RIYADH

Tue, 14 Jul 2015 18:25:00 GMT

Hospitality & Catering Company to Continue Brand’s International Franchise Growth

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia – Chef Anthony’s authentic Italian franchise is on the way.

Continuing its meteoric rise in the Middle East, the well known, Houston-based Italian restaurant announced today its first signed agreement in Riyadh with the Hospitality & Catering Company. The location is due to open in the urban metropolis by the end of this year. Saudi Arabia is about to enjoy a giant slice of New York.

“Riyadh is about to have a taste of something it’s never experienced before. We’re not just offering original Italian recipes – we’re offering a unique dining experience in an unrivaled interior highlighting our Open Kitchen, where our guests can see the quality and care we incorporate with every dish we prepare,” said founder and CEO Chef Anthony Russo. “There is an unmistakable demand here for the kind of family-friendly and refined dining that only Russo’s can offer. We will be the first to give Riyadh carefully crafted New York-style pizza and hand-made pastas, soups, salads and sandwiches, in a cozy yet luxurious setting.”

To kick off their historic first opening in Saudi Arabia, the location will feature a warm, friendly environment with trendy and modern design elements Chef Anthony has cultivated in his locations worldwide. Additionally, this will be the first Middle East location to offer the Giant 28″ XL Pizza and Giant Slices.

“Chef Anthony has customized the menu to adapt to the local trade area by creating recipes using local fresh ingredients and spices. His authentic Italian cuisine and hand-crafted New York-style pizzas will delight Russo’s newest guests in Riyadh, along with our locally sourced, farm fresh produce & meats,” said international franchise development manager Suzanne Boyadjian. “Chef Anthony’s focus is on his authentic Italian recipes that he has painstakingly perfected to adapt to the region, featuring fresh, local seafood, Halal meats, risotto and saffron, truffle mushroom soup, eggplant pizza, gnocchi pasta and Mediterranean-influenced dips and spreads. Our great food coupled with Chef Anthony’s custom-designed interior and the seasoned management team of our franchise partner is sure to culminate in exceptional guest service and great success at Riyadh’s first Russo’s franchised location.”

Menu innovation is at the heart of the Russo’s Restaurants brands, blending generations of the Russo’s family Italian recipes. Through Chef Anthony’s handpicked ingredients and a commitment to research and development, the brands have continued to stay ahead of culinary trends. A prime example is the development of a full line of gluten-free pizzas and pastas – a sincere response to the request for great-tasting, gluten-free menu selections from health conscious families and thousands living with Celiac disease, worldwide.

Riyadh marks the next step in Russo’s bold initiative to open 28 locations across the Middle East. The family-focused original Italian concept has established an ever-growing presence in the UAE, with locations open in Al Wahda Mall and Dalma Mall in Abu Dhabi, Jumeirah Centre in Dubai and Sahara Centre in Sharjah. This summer, the Russo’s brand will open new franchised locations in Dubai and expand further across the region.

Russo’s Restaurants offers a rare franchise opportunity for entrepreneurs interested in proven brands that are entirely chef created, chef inspired and chef driven. Russo’s New York Pizzeria is the only authentic New York-style pizzeria as a franchise concept. “We have a bold plan in place for the next three years. Russo’s is on course to add 30 restaurants, more than doubling our number of domestic and international locations,” said Jim Carr, director of franchise development for Russo’s Restaurants. “The Middle East is just the beginning. We are hosting initial talks with developers throughout Europe, Canada, Mexico and the Far East, and our domestic expansion continues to flourish.”

About Russo’s Restaurants

Russo’s Restaurants is a national and international franchisor of the up-scale fast casual and casual dining brands Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen. Based in Houston, Russo’s Restaurants are composed of a mix of corporate and franchised locations across Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Tennessee, Florida and Hawaii. Russo’s has entered international markets as well, with locations in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah, in the United Arab Emirates. There are 73 locations open and under development both in the United States and internationally. Chef Anthony Russo has created his concepts from years of applying his unique, family recipes featuring New York-style pizza, along with a broad variety of handcrafted pasta creations, calzones, salads, sandwiches, soups and desserts, reflecting his commitment to his New York roots where food and family come first. To learn more about Russo’s franchise opportunities, visit www.nypizzeria.com . For international development, contact our international franchise development manager, Suzanne Boyadjian at suzanne@nypizzeria.com or for the U.S. and Mexico contact Jim Carr, director of franchise development at j.carr@nypizzeria.com or by phone at (832) 980-6407.

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CHECK OUT THE BEST PIZZA SLICES IN TULSA

Wed, 08 Jul 2015 17:09:00 GMT

By SCOTT CHERRY – World Scene Writer

Let’s get to the crux – and the crust – of finding Tulsa’s best slices

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HEY CHEF, WHAT CAN I DO WITH TAHINI?

Thu, 25 Jun 2015 17:10:00 GMT

By Jacqueline Raposo (National Chef Whisperer) – Serious Eats

Tahini, Middle Eastern ground sesame paste, often gets shunned as a supporting player when blended into hummus or smeared on shawarma. But it’s versatile (and shelf-stable) enough to earn a permanent spot on our refrigerator shelves. We polled a panel of pro chefs on how they like to let it shine.

SAVORY SANDWICH SPREAD

Chef Anthony Russo is the founder of Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen and Russo’s New York Pizzeria based in Houston.

Tahini is super flavorful, and it’s great with grilled meats and roasted tomatoes or peppers.I smear flatbread with tahini, then add grilled chicken, romaine, Roma tomatoes, and red onion for a really quick snack or sandwich, like an Italian hero with a tiny twist.

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Local Entrepreneur To Open Russo’s New York Pizzeria – Agreement Signed To Bring Fast Casual Italian Concept To Cedar Park

Sat, 20 Jun 2015 20:58:00 GMT

CEDAR PARK, Texas – “Mangiamo! Let’s eat.”

The phrase heard around the world in Italian family kitchens will soon be on the tip of Cedar Park residents’ tongues as Russo’s New York Pizzeria readies itself to serve authentically Italian meals come mid-2016.

Local resident and experienced franchise owner Raymond Rosario has signed a franchise agreement with Russo’s Restaurants to open a Russo’s New York Pizzeria in Cedar Park. The well-known Houston-based Italian restaurant will offer lunch and dinner with the options of dining in, carrying out, delivery, and catering. This will be Cedar Park’s first Russo’s New York Pizzeria, with just one other location situated nearby in Pflugerville.

“There’s no denying the demand for quality Italian dining options here in Cedar Park. We offer original Italian recipes that visitors and local residents will fall in love with,” said Chef Anthony Russo, founder and CEO of Russo’s Restaurants. “As the town grows, the community seeks newer, fresher concepts that are fun for the entire family. Now that Raymond and his wife are spearheading the operations behind this restaurant, we’re confident we’ll give our loyal fans even more delicious, New York-style pizza and handcrafted Italian recipes in a trendy, family-friendly atmosphere.”

Rosario has extensive business ownership and franchising experience. In addition to his strong sales career of over 30 years, he has previously served as a restaurant franchise owner, business partner, and general manager for various local businesses. Rosario is an active member of both the Cedar Park Chamber of Commerce and the Meander County Chamber of Commerce.

“We are continuing our strategic growth plan throughout the year with plans to add 20 to 30 restaurants in the next three years. The new phase of franchising will more than double our number of U.S. locations,” said Jim Carr, director of franchise development for Russo’s Restaurants. “In addition to the U.S. markets, we have targeted international territories as well, and are in early discussions with developers in Canada, Mexico, the Philippines and China.”

The new Russo’s New York Pizzeria menu is available for viewing at: www.nypizzeria.com .

About Russo’s Restaurants

Russo’s Restaurants is a 44 location national and international franchisor of the fast casual and casual dining brands Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen. Based in Houston, Russo’s Restaurants are composed of a mix of corporate and franchised locations across Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Tennessee, Florida and Hawaii. Russo’s has entered international markets as well, with locations in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah, in the United Arab Emirates. There are an additional 20-plus units in development both in the United States and Internationally. Chef Anthony Russo has created his concepts from years of applying his unique, family recipes featuring New York-style pizza, along with a broad variety of handcrafted pasta creations, calzones, salads, sandwiches, soups and desserts, reflecting his commitment to his New York roots where food and family come first. To learn more about Russo’s franchise development opportunities, visit www.nypizzeria.com . For International development, contact our international franchise development manager, Suzanne Boyadjian at suzanne@nypizzeria.com or for the U.S. contact Jim Carr, director of franchise development at j.carr@nypizzeria.com or by phone at (832) 980-6407.

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NEW MOM PLANS TO OPEN MORE RUSSO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANTS IN SOUTH FLORIDA

Wed, 03 Jun 2015 17:11:00 GMT

By Emon Reiser – South Florida Business Journal

Karla Tomás plans to open two more Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen restaurants in South Florida by the time she sends her first child off to kindergarden.

The driven new mom, who gave birth to a baby girl in March, is the owner and original South Florida franchisee of the brand at 14910 Pines Blvd. in Pembroke Pines.

Since she opened the Russo’s on Valentine’s Day 2012, it has commanded an impressive annual sales of about $2 million, she said. She believes she can recreate her recipe for success and open two other locations in the tri-county area “in the next five to six years,” she told the South Florida Business Journal. She is still seeking spaces for the restaurant.

“I’ve lived in this area 20 years now, that’s why we chose to have the restaurant in this area,” Tomás, 30, said.

Tomás’ Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen in Pembroke Pines employs 26 people, which is the expected number of new employees each additional store will need.

Director of franchise development for the Russo’s brands (which includes Russo’s New York Pizzeria restaurants) Jim Carr says Tomás’ business is strong and he expects she and other franchisees can support up to 15 locations in South Florida.

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SIXTH RUSSO’S NEW YORK PIZZERIA FRANCHISE COMING TO UAE

Tue, 26 May 2015 18:28:00 GMT

UAE’s Prime Hospitality to Continue Brand’s Middle East Franchise Growth
HOUSTON – On the heels of its fifth signed agreement to bring Russo’s New York Pizzeria to the United Arab Emirates, the well-known, Houston-based Italian restaurant and brand is now announcing its sixth signed franchise agreement with the well-established UAE restaurant developer and operator, Prime Hospitality. The new 1,774-square-foot restaurant is slated to open this summer at the Panaroma development in the mixed residential, leisure and retail space, The Greens, in Dubai.

“We are bridging the New York pizzeria gap in the UAE. With our handcrafted recipes, old-world charm and warm hospitality, there is nothing quite like Russo’s in the market currently. We offer original Italian recipes that visitors, shoppers and local residents will fall in love with,” said Chef Anthony Russo, founder and CEO of Russo’s Restaurants. “You simply cannot deny the demand for family-friendly quality Italian dining at The Greens community. We can’t wait to give our loyal fans even more of what they crave – delicious, New York-style pizza and handcrafted Italian recipes in a cool and trendy interior that is a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere.”

“Right from the moment customers walk in, they know they’ve come somewhere special. They’re getting a true ‘slice’ of New York,” said Henrik Andersen Director of Prime Hospitality, which owns and operates Russo’s New York Pizzeria in the UAE. “Russo’s has become a staple in the area since we opened the first restaurant less than two years ago, our fan base on social media has grown exponentially and our pizzas recently were voted as some of the best in the market,” added Andersen.

Russo’s has established an ever-growing presence in the UAE, with locations open in Al Wahda Mall and Dalma Mall in Abu Dhabi, Jumeirah Centre in Dubai and Sahara Centre in Sharjah. This summer, Russo’s will open new locations at Palm Jumeirah in The Golden Mile and at The Greens. These are two of the 28 slated to open in the Middle East with locations set to open in Saudi Arabia in 2015.

Highlighting the performance of Russo’s New York Pizzeria and its upscale sister brand Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen, is the nearly 24 percent average net profit, which includes average food costs of less than 21 percent, a figure well below the national average for the fast casual pizza/Italian sector. Plus, the brands’ average unit volume surpasses $1 million. The most recent Russo’s opening saw weekly sales income between $35,000 to $60,000. Russo’s branded restaurants are profitable during their first year of operations.

Russo’s New York Pizzeria and its traditional Italian recipes trace their origins to a tight-knit family where the kitchen was the center of all activity. As a young child, Anthony helped his grandmother roll dough for cannoli, carefully wrapping it around four-inch wooden broomsticks in order to perfectly shape the traditional Italian pastry. By the age of 12, Anthony was learning authentic Italian recipes. Earning the Chef’s distinction at the young age of 18, Anthony honed his skills as a culinary expert working in his parent’s fine Italian restaurant and then opened his own pizzeria just a few years later. He then opened Anthony’s Pizzeria in Clear Lake, Texas, and later two restaurants in Houston; one named Café Anthony and the other named Russo Café Anthony, an upscale Italian restaurant.

Today, Russo’s New York Pizzera and Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen have garnered a cult-like following for their truly authentic and delicious Italian dishes made from the freshest ingredients and its New York-style pizza. The restaurants blend premium recipes with the magic created around a homemade Italian meal.

About Russo’s Restaurants

Russo’s Restaurants is a 36-location national and international franchisor of the fast casual and casual dining brands Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen. Based in Houston, Russo’s Restaurants are composed of a mix of corporate and franchised locations across Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Tennessee, Florida and Hawaii. Russo’s has entered international markets as well, with locations in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates. There are an additional 20-plus units in development both in the United States and internationally. Chef Anthony Russo has created his concepts from years of applying his unique, family recipes featuring New York-style pizza along with a broad variety of handcrafted pasta creations, calzones, salads, sandwiches, soups and desserts, reflecting his commitment to his New York roots where food and family come first. To learn more about Russo’s franchise development opportunities, visit www.nypizzeria.com or contact Jim Carr, director of franchise development at j.carr@nypizzeria.com .

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Next Stop, Las Vegas: Russo’s Continues Trade Show Circuit With Appearance at Multi-Unit Franchising Conference

Tue, 19 May 2015 15:08:00 GMT

The Multi-Unit Franchising Conference took place April 8-10 at Caesars Palace in the heart of Las Vegas. Known around the world for its fresh, delicious Italian fare in a casual, family-friendly ambiance, Russo’s New York Pizzeria made an appearance in Sin City to spread its multi-unit franchising message.

Representing the Russo’s team, David Martinez, a Russo’s franchisee and multi-unit operator of three units with plans for a fourth, was a panel speaker at a conference session. Martinez helped represent the band as it powers through an outstanding 2015, which has already included the opening of the company’s twenty-first Houston-area location in Spring, Texas.

An additional 10-12 restaurants are planned to open during the remainder of the ear throughout markets like Dallas, Houston, San Antonio and Austin. Currently, there are 20 Russo’s Restaurants in development, including two signed agreements in the UAE, bringing its total to six in the Middle East.

“We have excellent opportunities in fantastic U.S. markets for franchise growth,” said Chef and CEO Anthony Russo. “For entrepreneurs looking to develop three or more units of our proven concepts, our low cost of entry and flexible incentives are your one-stop shop for opportunity.”

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RUSSO’S NEW YORK PIZZERIA RAISING THE FOOD GAME IN DOWNTOWN HOUSTON FOLLOWING COMPLETE REDESIGN

Mon, 11 May 2015 18:29:00 GMT

Catering to the business lunch crowd, the new location boasts new décor, an open kitchen and make-your-own pizza and pasta stations

What: Russo’s New York Pizzeria has reopened on Polk Street in downtown Houston following a complete redesign of the interior.

The new Russo’s features an open kitchen, appealing décor, digital menu boards, and a self-serve digital Coca-Cola machine. Lunch guests from neighboring office buildings can enjoy the make-your-own pizza and pasta stations, which feature lunchtime portions of your favorite pizza and pasta dishes with a side salad.

Located nearby Russo’s New York Pizzeria in Midtown, at 306 Gray Street, the new location in downtown Houston has been designed to reinforce the Russo’s brand image many Houstonians have grown to know and love.

Where: Russo’s New York Pizzeria – 604 Polk Street, Houston

Hours: Monday: 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Tuesday through Friday: 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

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RUSSO’S NEW YORK PIZZERIA OPENS FOURTH LOCATION IN THE UAE

Thu, 07 May 2015 18:30:00 GMT

Prime Hospitality Brings Taste of Authentic New York-Style Pizza to Abu Dhabi at Dalma Mall

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates – The wait for Russo’s New York Pizzeria at Abu Dhabi’s Dalma Mall is over.

Now Abu Dhabi’s raving Russo’s fans, who have grown to love the brand since the first UAE location opened in 2013, can savor the tastes, aromas and unmistakable ambiance of an authentic New York-style pizzeria at the second Russo’s restaurant in Abu Dhabi. The well-known fast casual Italian restaurant that brings to life old-world charm and hospitality recently opened in Dalma Mall located on the Abu Dhabi-Tarif-Al Ain highway, opposite Mohammed Bin Zayed City, in the Mussafah area of Abu Dhabi.

A well established UAE restaurant developer and operator, Prime Hospitality recently opened the restaurant on the second floor of the Dalma Mall, proudly serving local residents, businesses and thousands of hungry shoppers.

“Customers entering a Russo’s New York Pizzeria anywhere in the world know they are getting a true ‘slice’ of New York,” said Henrik Andersen Director of Prime Hospitality, which owns and operates Russo’s New York Pizzeria in the UAE. “The ingredients are fresh in everything from the calzones to the pasta. Guests expect something special from these traditional Italian dishes, and we aim to deliver.”

Russo’s has established an ever-growing presence in the UAE, with locations open in Al Wahda Mall in Abu Dhabi, Jumeirah Centre in Dubai and Sahara Centre in Sharjah. The newest Abu Dhabi location is the fourth of 28 slated to open in the Middle East, with locations set to open in Saudi Arabia this year.

Russo’s Restaurants supplies a rare franchise opportunity for entrepreneurs interested in proven brands that are entirely chef created, chef inspired and chef driven. Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen offer the only authentic New York-style pizzeria franchise concept, tracing their origins to a tight-knit family where the kitchen was the center of all activity.

“Every dish is delicious, our menu has something for every taste and our franchisees are happy and growing. Opening in Dalma Mall is a great step for Russo’s Restaurants,” said CEO Anthony Russo, a formally trained chef who opened his first Russo’s New York Pizzeria in 1992. “We couldn’t be happier about carrying on the Russo’s tradition with a second restaurant in Abu Dhabi and doing so with a group with a track record as proven as Prime Hospitality’s. With their qualifications, Russo’s can look forward to a bright future in Abu Dhabi, the UAE and the Middle East.”

Chef Russo customizes the menu to adapt to the local trade area by creating recipes using local fresh ingredients and spices. Menu innovation is at the heart of Russo’s Restaurants’ successes. Blending generations of Russo family Italian recipes, Chef Anthony’s handpicked ingredients and a commitment to research and development, the brands have continued to stay ahead of culinary trends. A prime example is the development of a full line of gluten-free pizzas and pastas – a sincere response to the request for the great-tasting gluten-free pizza from health conscious families and thousands living with Celiac disease worldwide.

About Russo’s Restaurants

Russo’s Restaurants is a 44-location national and international franchisor of the fast casual and casual dining brands Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen. Based in Houston, Russo’s Restaurants are composed of a mix of corporate and franchised locations across Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Tennessee, Florida and Hawaii. Russo’s has entered international markets as well, with locations in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates. There are an additional 20-plus units in development both in the United States and internationally. Chef Anthony Russo has created his concepts from years of applying his unique, family recipes featuring New York-style pizza along with a broad variety of handcrafted pasta creations, calzones, salads, sandwiches, soups and desserts, reflecting his commitment to his New York roots where food and family come first. To learn more about Russo’s franchise development opportunities, visit www.nypizzeria.com . For international inquiries, contact Suzanne Boyadjian, international franchise development manager at suzanne@nypizzeria.com . For United States inquiries, contact Jim Carr, director of franchise development at j.carr@nypizzeria.com .

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RUSSO’S FRANCHISEE MAKES HOUSTON HEADLINES

Wed, 22 Apr 2015 21:19:00 GMT

One of the benefits of joining the Russo’s Restaurants franchise system is unlimited access to professional public relations (PR) and marketing support to help promote your new location every step of the way at no additional cost.

Recently, multi-unit Russo’s franchisee Guillermo Medellin opened his third location in Spring, Texas. He made headlines in the Houston market and was profiled in the Houston Chronicle to its 6 million-plus unique monthly visitors.

“The reception from the community has been phenomenal,” Guillermo said in the article. “Each day is busier than the last, especially considering we’ve only been open for a week! We have a great team that is doing a wonderful job of keeping things running smoothly.”

The article also provided a summary of the menu, hours and location. With such favorable media attention, it’s no wonder that Guillermo’s third location is off to an incredible start!

Click here to read the full article in the Houston Chronicle.

If you’re interested in taking the entrepreneurial leap as a multi-or single-unit owner in either Russo’s Restaurant concept, please visit nypizzeria.com for more information.

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Bonjour, Paris! Russo’s Attends Franchise Expo Paris

Sun, 19 Apr 2015 15:11:00 GMT

The Franchise Expo Paris took place during March in France’s most famous city. Known worldwide for delicious, fresh Italian fare in a casual, family-friendly environment, Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen took its talents to the City of Lights to spread the Russo’s Restaurants franchising message.

Attracting a crowd of more than 37,000 franchisees, franchisors, vendors, media and visitors, the Expo Paris provides an international opportunity for all interested in franchising to come together to see the industry’s best and brightest. With a significant presence established in the U.S. and the Middle East, Russo’s stood out at the Expo as a successful collection of concepts deeply rooted in authentic, fresh Italian cuisine with a commitment to serving the community and friendly, casual service.

Russo’s brought with them their huge brick oven so that all in attendance could taste true New York-style pizza, something that is virtually unheard of in France.

“Russo’s is an ingrained part of dozens of communities here in the U.S. – people gather with friends and loved ones for a fresh, delicious Italian meal that they feel good about sharing,” said Chef Anthony Russo, CEO and founder of Russo’s Restaurants. “We loved sharing the food and franchising opportunity with our French neighbors – they can’t get enough of Russo’s already and we’re thrilled to expand our international footprint even further.”

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PEOPLE ON THE MOVE IN HOUSTON: STEVE HUBBARD RECOGNITION PLAQUE

Fri, 10 Apr 2015 17:12:00 GMT

By Houston Business Journal

STEVE HUBBARD

Date added: April 10, 2015

Submission Type: New Hire

Current employer: Russo’s New York Pizzeria

Current title/position: Director of Operations

Industry: Retailing & Restaurants

Position level: Director

Duties/responsibilities: Steve Hubbard is a seasoned operations expert. In his new role, he will manage and increase the efficiency of processes within Russo’s. He has a significant role in making decisions for the company’s financial management, organizational effectiveness, organizational leadership and risk management.

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GUIDANT FINANCIAL PARTNERS WITH RUSSO’S RESTAURANTS TO OFFER CREDIT ACCESS TO FRANCHISEES

Sun, 05 Apr 2015 18:30:00 GMT

By Brooks Wallace – Hollywood Public Relations
Bellevue, Wash. – April 6, 2015 – Together with BoeFly , Guidant Financial has announced a new partnership with Russo’s Restaurants to increase credit access to restaurant franchisees, enabling more entrepreneurs to make Russo’s Restaurants franchise ownership a reality.

“This easy prequalification process will give Russo’s franchisees confidence about their ability to get financing and identify potential sources, said David Nilssen, CEO and co-founder of Guidant Financial. “We’re thrilled to work with Chef Russo’s team to help ease the often complex financing process and enable more individuals to realize their dream of franchise ownership.

“It’s our passion to produce authentic New York-style pizza and quality Italian dining, and this partnership furthers that mission, one new franchisee at a time, said Chef Anthony Russo, founder and CEO of Russo’s Restaurants. “Our partnership with franchise experts Guidant Financial and BoeFly will help more entrepreneurs expand our brands and join the Russo’s Restaurants family.

# # #

About Guidant Financial

Guidant Financial works with entrepreneurs to identify, evaluate and deploy intelligent business financing strategies. Their services include, but are not limited to, rollovers as business start-ups (ROBS), SBA loans, unsecured credit and portfolio loans. In 2015, Guidant pledged to deploy $350 million through small business and franchising. Visit Guidant on the web at guidantfinancial.com .

About Russo’s Restaurants

Russo’s Restaurants is a 42-location national and international franchisor of the fast casual and casual dining brands Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen. Based in Houston, Russo’s Restaurants are composed of a mix of corporate and franchised locations across Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Tennessee, Florida and Hawaii. Russo’s has entered international markets as well, with locations in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates. There are an additional 20-plus units in development both in the United States and internationally. Chef Anthony Russo has created his concepts from years of applying his unique, family recipes featuring New York-style pizza along with a broad variety of handcrafted pasta creations, calzones, salads, sandwiches, soups and desserts, reflecting his commitment to his New York roots where food and family come first. To learn more about Russo’s franchise development opportunities, visit www.nypizzeria.com/franchise .

About Boefly

BoeFly makes it easier to obtain small business loans by reducing the time, cost, complexity, inefficiency and frustration associated with small business lending. Its online proprietary matching technology connects small business borrowers with multiple lenders from among its more than 3,600 participating banks, based on the lending profiles provided by the banks and the information provided in the borrower’s loan request. Before seeking a loan business, borrowers can find out their fundability and may get prequalified for a business loan through bQual . The bQual report will deliver a business borrower’s FICO and SBSS Small Business Credit Scores, a personal consumer credit score and credit bureau report, and a detailed financing assessment of a borrower’s fundability.

BoeFly, now a strategic ally of the International Franchise Association to expand credit access within the franchise community, offers a Franchise Solution bringing these benefits to the large and growing small business franchisee community and is the choice of more than 125 brands, including Dunkin’ Donuts, Carl’s Jr., and Kiddie Academy, among many others. For more information, visit boefly.com .

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RUSSO’S RESTAURANTS NAMES SEASONED FRANCHISE AND CORPORATE EXPERT STEVE HUBBARD AS DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

Fri, 03 Apr 2015 18:31:00 GMT

By Callie Forkenbrock – All Points Public Relations

HOUSTON – Russo’s Restaurants, which includes Russo’s New York Pizzeria as well as Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen, announced today the appointment of Steve Hubbard as its new director of operations.

In his new role as director of operations, Hubbard will focus his efforts toward planning operational excellence within Russo’s. He will manage and increase the efficiency of processes within the company and will enhance the communication between the brand’s corporate and franchise sectors. He has a significant role in making decisions within Russo’s financial management, organizational effectiveness, organizational leadership and risk management.

“We were striving to find someone for this role with a strong operational background complemented with a lifelong passion for cooking,” said Chef Anthony Russo, owner and CEO of Russo’s Restaurants. “That’s how we know we absolutely hit the jackpot with Hubbard-he embodies and exceeds those two important qualities.”

Hubbard has utilized his enthusiasm toward operations and passion for food throughout his successful career within both corporate and franchise businesses. A seasoned restaurant operator, Hubbard has more than 20 years of experience working with Applebee’s and Apple Investors Group.

Much like Chef Anthony Russo, Hubbard developed his passion for cooking at a young age. He grew up cooking for his parents and seven siblings and used his talent to pay his way through college. Now, Hubbard can be found in the kitchen during his time off passing down his “tools-of-the-trade” to his children.

About Russo’s Restaurants

Presenting a true New York-style pizza tradition, Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen live by a family promise that dates back more than half a century, “If it isn’t fresh, don’t serve it. “This motto has served Russo’s Restaurants well since founder Anthony Russo opened his first pizzeria more than two decades ago. The brand’s success has inspired the launch a number of successful franchises, and today 42 Russo’s restaurants are operating in the United States and the United Arab Emirates. Dozens more are expected to open in the next three to five years. The concept has gained recognition for its remarkably fresh food and the affordable price of menu options. Preparation of pure ingredients and the execution of memorable Italian food keep customers coming back for more. Chef Anthony’s commitment to maintaining the freshest products insures that all customers who walk through the door, irrespective of which Russo’s location, receive the bona fide Russo’s experience.

For more information about Russo’s Restaurants visit www.nypizzeria.com . To learn about available franchise opportunities call (855) 978-7767.

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RUSSO’S RESTAURANTS FAST-TRACKS U.S., INTERNATIONAL EXPANSION

Tue, 31 Mar 2015 18:31:00 GMT

By Jackson Lewis – All Points Public Relations

Houston-Based Italian Concepts Look Ahead to Next Phase, Will Showcase at Multi-Unit Franchising Conference

HOUSTON – Russo’s Restaurants, the founders of dining concepts that include Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen, announced today plans to significantly enhance the brands’ footprint in the Greater Memphis Area in order to continue expansion into key markets.

Demonstrating the excitement around the brand, Russo’s kicked off 2015 with the opening of the company’s twenty-first Houston location in Spring, Texas. An additional 10-12 restaurants are planned to open this year in Texas markets like Dallas, Houston, San Antonio and Austin. Currently, there are 20 Russo’s restaurants in development. Additionally, Russo’s New York Pizzeria has just signed two new agreements in the UAE, bringing its total to six.

“We’ve exceeded our growth goals,” said Chef Anthony Russo, a formally trained chef who opened his first Russo’s New York Pizzeria in 1992 and later developed Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen. “Russo’s expansion just cannot be contained, and we are pleased to target Memphis as a growth market for qualified single and multi-unit franchisees.”

Today’s news follows an extraordinary year for Russo’s Restaurants. In 2014, Russo’s signed agreements to open seven new restaurants and opened several. The year ahead represents the brand’s most aggressive growth phase yet.

Already established in the Memphis area with a thriving New York Pizzeria in Germantown, Russo’s dedicated customer following in the area has ensured success for the market with repeat business, strong sales and a unique menu.

With a significant presence already existing in dozens of major U.S. cities including Memphis and the Middle East, Russo’s franchise development team is looking to Riverside, Downtown (Beale Street area), Midtown, Collierville and Cordova in Tennessee, as well as Oxford and Southaven in nearby Mississippi for growth.

Franchisees have found success in Russo’s proven concepts, which boasts over 32 years in the pizzeria business. The New York Pizzeria is a family-style fast casual format, while the Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen is a more upscale casual dining concept. Franchisees who searched for an authentic New York Pizzeria experience have found just that in Russo’s, and have begun expanding into multiple units. The Russo’s locations boast a unique design for each, separating it from it’s “one-look” competitors, with each unit reflecting a one of a kind design, thus setting these concepts apart in the cluttered restaurant industry.

The system wide average sales volume per unit is $1.1 million. The most recent Russo’s opening saw weekly sales revenue, between $35,000-$60,000, with food costs accounting for only about 22 percent.

“Our franchise opportunities can’t be beat – we have exciting and favorable conditions in lucrative U.S. and international markets for franchise growth,” said Russo. “For those looking to develop three or more units, our flexible incentives are sure to impress. Russo’s New York Pizzeria is the only authentic New York-style pizzeria that is available as a franchise.”

In addition to the unique restaurant designs, menu innovation is at the heart of Russo’s Restaurants. Blending generations of Russo family Italian recipes, Chef Anthony’s handpicked ingredients and his commitment to research and development, his brands have continued to stay ahead of culinary trends. A prime example is the development of a full line of gluten-free pizzas – a sincere response to the request for the great-tasting gluten-free pizza from thousands living with Celiac disease. The gluten-free pizza that originated in the restaurant is now available at thousands of grocery stores nationwide.

Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen trace their origins to a tight-knit family where the kitchen was the center of all activity. As a young child, Chef Anthony helped his grandmother roll dough for cannoli, carefully wrapping it around four-inch wooden broomsticks to get the right shape before cooked. By the age of 12, Anthony was learning authentic Italian recipes. Earning the Chef’s distinction as an 18-year-old, Anthony honed his skills as a culinary expert working in his parent’s fine Italian restaurant, and then opened his own pizzeria.

The Russo’s name has become synonymous with authentic Italian meals. Beyond the brand’s specialty New York-style pizzas, menu items include fresh salads (insalata), soups (zuppe) and homemade pastas. Authentic Italian cannoli, fresh seafood, chicken, veal and flatbread sandwiches are just some of the distinctive dishes on the menu.

About Russo’s Restaurants

Russo’s Restaurants is a 38-location national and international franchisor of the fast casual and casual dining brands Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen. Based in Houston, Russo’s Restaurants are composed of a mix of corporate and franchised locations across Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Tennessee, Florida and Hawaii. Russo’s has entered international markets as well, with locations in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates. There are an additional 20-plus units in development both in the United States and internationally. Chef Anthony Russo has created his concepts from years of applying his unique, family recipes featuring New York-style pizza along with a broad variety of handcrafted pasta creations, calzones, salads, sandwiches, soups and desserts, reflecting his commitment to his New York roots where food and family come first. To learn more about Russo’s franchise development opportunities, visit www.russoscoalfired.com or contact Jim Carr, director of franchise development at j.carr@nypizzeria.com .

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GLUTEN-FREE SPOTLIGHT: CHEF ANTHONY RUSSO’S PIZZA

Wed, 18 Mar 2015 17:13:00 GMT

By Lena Burkut – Way 2 Good Life

Our Friday tradition is a pizza night. Great end of the working week is to share a big pizza with the family (or a few small ones). Recently, we started baking two small ones instead of one big one – kids always want cheese and the adults in my house prefer something more fun. Besides that, I hate the thought of missing every pizza night because of my gluten sensitivity.

Solution: Chef Anthony Russo’s Gluten Free Pizza.

The Russo family opened “Russo’s Italian Restaurant” in 1978, after moving from New York to Texas. Russo’s Italian Restaurant was a fine dining establishment that featured Russo family recipes passed down through generations, updated with a modern sensibility. The New York Pizzeria concept was introduced in 1992 in the Houston market in an area where most customers were from New York City, so they truly appreciated the New York pizza style, giant slices, and calzones in Texas. Anthony also quickly gained recognition for his fresh Italian food and his affordable prices. Today Russo’s has over 30 locations, from Hawaii to Dubai.

RUSSO’S PIZZA – NOT JUST IN THE RESTAURANT
Taste the Tradition in Every Bite. Expanding the tradition of artisanal baking, Russo’s now offers a complete line of the best-tasting, gluten-free frozen pizzas. With their passion for freshness and quality, you can now take home the authentic Italian flavors perfected by Chef Russo.

ABOUT INGREDIENTS

Chef-Selected Tomatoes All Natural Toppings
100% Premium Mozzarella Cheese
Egg-Free
Soy-Free
Trans Fat-Free
Certified Organic EVO
Meat Toppings (Free of BHA & BHT)

6 DIFFERENT VARIETIES:
NEW YORK-STYLE CHEESE
Our classic New York style thin crust cheese pizza made with house made pizza sauce, mozzarella cheese and Italian seasoning.

MARGHERITA
A classic style pizza made with olive oil garlic sauce, fresh roma tomatoes, mozzarella cheese and Italian seasoning.

UNCURED PEPPERONI
New York-style thin crust pizza loaded with pepperoni, shredded mozzarella cheese and Chef Russo’s house made pizza sauce.

CHICKEN RUSTICA
Grilled chicken, spinach, full-flavored roma tomatoes, basil, mozzarella cheese, feta cheese and garlic with extra virgin olive oil.

MULBERRY
Italian sausage, perfectly spicy pepperoni, Canadian bacon, crumbled hamburger, mozzarella cheese and full-flavored pizza sauce.

GREEK
Fresh spinach, juicy roma tomatoes, Italian black olives, fresh feta and mozzarella cheese, garlic and extra virgin olive oil.

Yes, it is gluten free – with a thin crunchy crust and a great variety of toppings! I personally loved Chicken Rustica, Greek, and Margherita – I never had feta cheese on my pizza before and it is absolutely out of this world. Tomatoes came out perfect on every pizza we tried.

If you like different meats on your pizza – you have to try Mulberry with Italian sausage, spicy pepperoni, Canadian bacon crumbled hamburger.

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RUSSO’S RESTAURANTS TARGETS INTERNATIONAL GROWTH ACROSS EUROPE

Thu, 12 Mar 2015 21:28:00 GMT

Authentic Italian Fast-Casual Pizzeria Concept Initiates Strategic Expansion Plan

HOUSTON – Russo’s New York Pizzeria, the U.S.-based fast-casual pizzeria concept best known for its authentic cuisine and brick oven pizzas, announced today plans to significantly enhance the brand’s footprint in France and throughout Europe.

“We’ve exceeded our growth goals,” said Founder and CEO Chef Anthony Russo, a formally trained chef who opened his first Russo’s New York Pizzeria in 1992 and later developed Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen. “Russo’s expansion just cannot be contained, and we are pleased to provide our loyal fans with additional Russo’s locations in these promising markets.”

Today’s news follows an extraordinary year for Russo’s Restaurants. In 2014, Russo’s signed agreements to open seven new restaurants and opened four. The year ahead represents the brand’s most aggressive growth phase yet.

“France is a key growth area for Russo’s in the upcoming months. There’s nothing like Russo’s in the area,” said Russo. “Our international franchise partners have had nothing but exceptional success expanding into new markets like Dubai and the rest of the UAE. We’re confident France will be a stunning success as well.”

With a significant presence already established in dozens of major U.S. cities and the Middle East, Russo’s franchise development team is looking to Paris, Nice, Marseilles and Cannes for growth. Other European countries of interest are Spain, the UK and Germany, among others.

“Our franchise opportunities can’t be beat – we have exciting opportunities in profitable international markets for franchise growth. We are the only authentic New York-style pizzeria available as a franchise,” said Russo. “For those looking to develop three or more units of one of the best pizza concepts or a distinctive full-service Italian restaurant, our flexible incentives are sure to impress. Our pilot program is designed for a franchisee that is looking for the chance to own part of a brand that is built to stand the test of time.”

Franchisees have found success in Russo’s proven concept – the New York Pizzeria is family-style casual. From traditional Italian appetizers such as bruschetta and fried calamari to quick-fired pizzas, homemade pastas and an authentic Italian dessert selection, diners at the New York Pizzeria run an average of sales at $600 per square foot in the U.S.

Menu innovation is at the heart of Russo’s Restaurants’ successes. Blending generations of Russo family Italian recipes, Chef Anthony’s handpicked ingredients and a commitment to research and development, the brands have continued to stay ahead of culinary trends. A prime example is the development of a full line of gluten free pizzas – a sincere response to the request for the great-tasting gluten-free pizza from thousands living with Celiac disease.

Today, Russo’s New York Pizzeria has garnered a cult-like following for its truly authentic and delicious Italian dishes made from the freshest ingredients and its New York-style pizza. The restaurants blend premium recipes with the magic created around a homemade Italian meal.

For more information about Russo’s New York Pizzeria, please visit www.nypizzeria.com .

About Russo’s Restaurants

To learn more about Russo’s franchise development opportunities, visit www.nypizzeria.com/franchise or contact Suzanne Boyadijan, Director of International Franchise Sales, at Suzanne@nypizzeria.com .

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Russo’s on KHOU – Heart Healthy Italian Recipes

Wed, 04 Mar 2015 21:25:00 GMT

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RUSSO’S RESTAURANTS TARGETS REGIONAL GROWTH THROUGHOUT GREATER MEMPHIS AREA

Sun, 01 Mar 2015 21:29:00 GMT

Authentic Fast-Casual New York Pizzeria and Refined Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen Concepts Initiate Strategic Expansion Plan for Greater Memphis Area

About Russo’s Restaurants

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Franchise Expo South Recap

Fri, 27 Feb 2015 15:12:00 GMT

The Franchise Expo South took place during the first week of February in Houston, our home market. Conveniently, there are also more than 20 Russo’s New York Pizzerias and Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchens in Houston as well.

Drawing a crowd of more than 10,000 franchisees, franchisors, vendors, media and visitors, the Expo South provides an opportunity for all interested in franchising to come together to see the industry’s best and brightest. With a significant presence established in Houston, Russo’s stood out at the Expo South as a successful collection of concepts deeply rooted in authentic, fresh Italian cuisine, a commitment to serving the community and friendly, casual service.

After showcasing the concepts at the Expo South, Russo’s took interested parties on a tour of the Russo’s Restaurants in town as well as gave them an opportunity to meet current employees and franchisees. Russo’s also held two discovery days in order to educate and inform future single- and multi-unit owners.

“Many people have considered owning their own businesses – they’re tired of working for the man, but they’re nervous about the financial risk. That’s why Russo’s is such a great fit – the concept is proven, and dozens of people have found success in owning one or both of the restaurants,” said Jim Carr, director of franchise development for Russo’s Restaurants. “The Expo South was an incredible way to get to know the future of Russo’s. We encourage anyone interested in business ownership to reach out – we’re happy to discuss why Russo’s is the perfect choice.”

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Deal Inked To Bring The Fifth Russo’s New York Pizzeria Franchise To UAE

Fri, 20 Feb 2015 20:24:00 GMT

UAE’s Prime Hospitality to Continue Brand’s Middle East Franchise Growth

HOUSTON – Russo’s fans in The United Arab Emirates just can’t get enough.

A well-established UAE restaurant developer and operator, Prime Hospitality, has signed a franchise agreement with Russo’s Restaurants to open another Russo’s New York Pizzeria in the United Arab Emirates. The well-known, Houston-based Italian restaurant brand and its sister concept, Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen, continue to bring to life old world charm, handcrafted recipes and warm hospitality.

This will be Prime Hospitality’s fifth Russo’s location in the UAE. The new restaurant is slated to open at the trunk of Palm Jumeirah in the mixed residential, office and retail space, The Golden Mile.

“There is nothing quite like Russo’s in the UAE. We offer original Italian recipes that visitors, shoppers and local residents will fall in love with,” said Chef Anthony Russo, founder and CEO of Russo’s Restaurants. “You simply cannot deny the demand for quality Italian dining at The Golden Mile. With so many tourists coming to the area year-round, the community seeks newer, fresher concepts that are fun for the entire family. We can’t wait to give our loyal fans even more of what they crave – delicious, New York-style pizza and handcrafted Italian recipes in a cool and trendy interior that is a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere.”

“Right from the moment customers walk in they know they’ve come somewhere special. They’re getting a true ‘slice’ of New York,” said Henrik Andersen Director of Prime Hospitality, which owns and operates Russo’s New York Pizzeria in the UAE. “Everything is made from fresh ingredients. From the giant slices of pizza and the calzones to the pasta, these are traditional Italian dishes served just the way our guests would expect.”

“Russo’s has become a staple in the area since we opened the first restaurant less than two years ago, our fan base on social media has grown exponentially and our pizzas recently were voted as some of the best in the market,” added Andersen. “Once you have visited a Russo’s Restaurant, you want to come back again – that’s how we create loyal customers and build long term success and further growth.

Russo’s has established an ever-growing presence in the UAE, with locations open in Al Wahda Mall and Dalma Mall in Abu Dhabi, Jumeirah Centre in Dubai and Sahara Centre in Sharjah. The newest location is the fifth of 28 slated to open in the Middle East, with locations set to open in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia in 2015.

“We are continuing to advance our strategic growth plan in 2015 with plans to add 20 to 30 restaurants in the next three years. The new phase of franchising will more than double our number of international locations,” said Jim Carr, newly appointed director of franchise development for Russo’s Restaurants. “In addition to the Middle East markets, we are in early discussions with developers in Canada, Mexico, the Philippines and China.”

Highlighting the performance of Russo’s New York Pizzeria and its upscale sister brand Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen, is the nearly 24 percent average net profit, which includes average food costs of less than 21 percent, a figure well below the national average for the fast casual pizza/Italian sector. Plus, the brands’ average unit volume surpasses $1 million. The most recent Russo’s opening saw weekly sales income between $35,000 to $60,000. Russo’s branded restaurants are profitable during their first year of operations.

Russo’s New York Pizzeria and its traditional Italian recipes trace their origins to a tight-knit family where the kitchen was the center of all activity. As a young child, Anthony helped his grandmother roll dough for cannoli, carefully wrapping it around four-inch wooden broomsticks in order to perfectly shape the traditional Italian pastry. By the age of 12, Anthony was learning authentic Italian recipes. Earning the Chef’s distinction at the young age of 18, Anthony honed his skills as a culinary expert working in his parent’s fine Italian restaurant and then opened his own pizzeria just a few years later. He then opened Anthony’s Pizzeria in Clear Lake, Texas, and later two restaurants in Houston; one named Cafe Anthony and the other named Russo Café Anthony, an upscale Italian restaurant.

About Russo’s Restaurants

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PRIME HOSPITALITY TO OPEN FIFTH RUSSO’S LOCATION IN UAE

Fri, 20 Feb 2015 17:18:00 GMT

By www.qsrmagazine.com

Established UAE restaurant developer and operator, Prime Hospitality, has signed a franchise agreement with Russo’s Restaurants to open another Russo’s New York Pizzeria in the United Arab Emirates. The well-known Houston-based Italian restaurant brand and its sister concept, Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen, continue to bring to life old world charm, handcrafted recipes and warm hospitality.

This will be Prime Hospitality’s fifth Russo’s location in the UAE. The new restaurant is slated to open at the trunk of Palm Jumeirah in the mixed residential, office, and retail space, the Golden Mile.

“There is nothing quite like Russo’s in the UAE. We offer original Italian recipes that visitors, shoppers, and local residents will fall in love with,” says Chef Anthony Russo, founder and CEO of Russo’s Restaurants. “You simply cannot deny the demand for quality Italian dining at The Golden Mile. With so many tourists coming to the area year-round, the community seeks newer, fresher concepts that are fun for the entire family. We can’t wait to give our loyal fans even more of what they crave: delicious, New York-style pizza and handcrafted Italian recipes in a cool and trendy interior that is a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere.”

Russo’s New York Pizzeria has garnered a cult-like following for its authentic Italian dishes made from fresh ingredients and its New York-style pizza.

“Right from the moment customers walk in they know they’ve come somewhere special. They’re getting a true ‘slice’ of New York,” says Henrik Andersen, director of Prime Hospitality, which owns and operates Russo’s New York Pizzeriain the UAE. “Everything is made from fresh ingredients. From the giant slices of pizza and the calzones to the pasta, these are traditional Italian dishes served just the way our guests would expect.”

“Russo’s has become a staple in the area since we opened the first restaurant less than two years ago, our fan base on social media has grown exponentially and our pizzas recently were voted as some of the best in the market,” Andersen adds. “Once you have visited a Russo’s Restaurant, you want to come back again: that’s how we create loyal customers and build long-term success and further growth.

Russo’s has established an ever-growing presence in the UAE with locations open in Al Wahda Mall and Dalma Mall in Abu Dhabi, Jumeirah Centre in Dubai, and Sahara Centre in Sharjah. The newest location is the fifth of 28 slated to open in the Middle East with locations set to open in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia in 2015.

“We are continuing to advance our strategic growth plan in 2015 with plans to add 20 to 30 restaurants in the next three years. The new phase of franchising will more than double our number of international locations,” says Jim Carr, newly appointed director of franchise development for Russo’s Restaurants. “In addition to the Middle East markets, we are in early discussions with developers in Canada, Mexico, the Philippines, and China.”

Highlighting the performance of Russo’s New York Pizzeria and its upscale sister brand Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen, is the nearly 24 percent average net profit, which includes average food costs of less than 21 percent, a figure well below the national average for the fast casual pizza/Italian sector. Plus, the brands’ average unit volume surpasses $1 million. The most recent Russo’s opening saw weekly sales income between $35,000 to $60,000. Russo’s branded restaurants were profitable during their first year of operations.

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Anthony Russo Takes The Wheel…Of Pizza

Fri, 13 Feb 2015 20:06:00 GMT

Russo’s New York Pizzeria has locations across the United States, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and soon, Doha. Anthony Russo credits his fresh ingredients stance for the successful expansion and many slices of famous New York cheesecake sent in from New York.

You have a Honolulu location, lots of mainland ones and a Dubai restaurant. Do you adjust the pizza to local tastes? And in things as small as dough consistency, too?

Absolutely. We want customers in every market, whether locally or internationally, to enjoy their experience at Russo’s. A big part of that is incorporating local cuisine into dishes.

At our Ewa Beach location in Hawaii, we created a pulled pork pizza as a specialty. Dishes like the Calamari Fritti – along with other seafood – is really popular there. SO, we also added in more pasta entrees with seafood, using whichever fish is in season on the island. Things like Salmon Piccata and Tuna Piccata are always a big hit.

The menu in Dubai is really reflective of local and traditional cuisine. Seafood dishes there will have more white fish. As far as meat, anything involving lamb will fare very well – for instance our Lamb Rigatoni is popular. We also took into consideration local seasonings, and added ingredients like saffron to risotto dishes to give it that comforting flavor.

Additionally, the Middle East is not nearly as big on alcohol as we are here in the U.S. So in place of a traditional bar that serves alcoholic beverages, we put in a fruit juice bar. Customers can choose from fresh pineapples, mangos and other fruits to create their own drinks.

How can someone enjoy your food in a less greasy means while still getting the cheese and other pleasurable ingredients? Is there a specific healthier dish (though not ‘diet’ food?)

Since opening our restaurants, we’ve abided by the Russo family promise: “If it isn’t fresh, don’t serve it.” All of our pizzas and entrees are made with quality ingredients that I, along with a few others, hand pick specifically for Russo’s brands. We don’t buy products in the marketplace that are mass-produced because they’re full of junk. I go through careful procedures to hand pick ingredients, and develop the recipes myself to maintain the integrity and freshness of the produce.

We also use only 100 percent, cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil, which is made from olives picked from my family’s grove in Southern Italy.

As far as healthier dishes, you can enjoy something small, but hearty, like a Minestrone Soup, which is prepared traditionally with all fresh vegetables. We also have chicken and vegetable entrees that offer high protein and a low calorie count. Of course, our gluten-free options are a favorite amongst those who not only suffer from Celiac disease, but for people that abide by a gluten-free lifestyle.

Whether you want to eat light or go a little crazy, our menu accommodates everyone.

Do men and women have different favorite picks at your restaurants? What are they? What do both men and women like equally?

Men gravitate more towards the meat dishes. For instance, our New York Village Pizza is big favorite. It has spicy Italian sausage, pepperoni, Canadian bacon, and beef… It’s a big favorite amongst the guys.

For women, they’ll go with a bit of a lighter pizza option, like the Margherita Pizza. It’s definitely not as heavy. The Mediterranean and Caprese salads are also favorites among female diners.

The common denominator with both men and women is the pizza. Whether it’s a house specialty or a build-it-yourself pie, everyone comes to Russo’s for the authentic, New York-style pizza.

You sell New York-style cheesecake. I’m always really confused how to differentiate authentic from the imitations. How Do I know I’m eating a real one when I dine out, including at your restaurant?

At Russo’s we import our cheesecake from an authentic, Italian bakery in New York City, Pasticceria Rocco (Rocco’s Pastry Shop). Every single Russo’s location has Rocco’s cheesecake.

The easiest way to tell an authentic, traditional cheesecake from one that isn’t is in the texture. If it’s smooth and creamy with an airy finish and your fork slices through it easily, than you’re eating the real stuff. If it’s very dense and thick, and feels heavy, most likely it’s not an authentic style cheesecake.

Same question for the pizza. How do I know I’m eating authentic Manhattan style pizza? Is it all really skinny crusts, more cheese and light on the sauce?

A good New York-style pizza starts with a thin and crispy crust, and will be topped with fresh sauce and mozzarella. It’s not necessarily about how much you put on it, but about the quality of the ingredients.

But in case you’re still skeptical, here’s a good way to determine if it’s truly New York-style pizza: You should be able to fold your slice in half, and it should be able to stand up straight when you lay it on the crust.

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RUSSO’S NEW YORK PIZZERIA OPENS IN SPRING, TX

Mon, 26 Jan 2015 18:32:00 GMT

By Restaurant Magazine

Houston-Area Developer Opens 3rd location & Spring’s First Russo’s New York Pizzeria; Russo’s Restaurants Continues Historic Level of U.S. Expansion

Russo’s New York Pizzeria Opens in Spring, TXLocal resident Guillermo Medellin, an experienced Russo’s franchisee who already owns two Russo’s Restaurants in the Woodlands and Conroe, is opening Spring’s newest eatery at the intersection of Kuykendahl and West Rayford in the Kroger Marketplace.

“From the moment customers walk in, they know they’ve come somewhere special. They’re getting a true ‘slice’ of New York in Spring,” said Medellin. “Everything is made from fresh ingredients. From the giant slices of pizza and calzones to the pasta, these are traditional Italian dishes served just the way our guests have come to expect from Russo’s Restaurants.”

The Spring New York Pizzeria is the 21st Russo’s Restaurant to open in the Houston area. The expansion signals the continuation of significant franchise growth for the brand throughout the United States and beyond. The company is advancing its strategic growth plan in the beginning of 2015, adding 20 to 30 restaurants in the next three years. In addition to the U.S. markets, Russo’s has already taken off internationally, with multiple locations in the Middle East. Plus, early discussions are underway with developers in Canada, Mexico, the Philippines and China. The 12-month period from early 2014 to today represents the brand’s most aggressive growth phase.

“Opening our 21st location in the Houston DMA is a momentous occasion for Russo’s Restaurants,” said CEO Anthony Russo, a formally trained chef who opened his first Russo’s New York Pizzeria in 1992. “We couldn’t be happier about carrying on the Russo’s tradition with a new restaurant in Houston and doing so with a team as gifted as Guillermo’s. With their qualifications, Russo’s is continuing to build a bright future in our home Houston market.”

Highlighting the performance of Russo’s New York Pizzeria, and its upscale sister brand Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen, is the nearly 24 percent average net profit, which includes average food costs of less than 21 percent, a figure well below the national average for the fast casual pizza/Italian sector. Additionally, the brands’ average unit volume surpasses $1 million. The most recent Russo’s opening saw weekly sales revenues between $35,000 to $60,000. Russo’s branded restaurants are profitable during their first year of operations.

For proven restaurant operations teams and driven entrepreneurs interested in pizza franchise opportunities, Russo’s has partnered with BoeFly and Guidant Financial to offer funding packages for its emerging, qualified franchisees. To learn more about Russo’s franchise development opportunities, visit www.nypizzeria.com/franchise or contact Jim Carr, director of franchise development at j.carr@nypizzeria.com .

Russo’s Restaurants is a 38-location national and international franchisor of the fast casual and casual dining brands Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen. Based in Houston, Russo’s Restaurants are composed of a mix of corporate and franchised locations across Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Tennessee, Florida and Hawaii. Russo’s has entered international markets as well, with locations in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates. There are an additional 20-plus units in development both in the United States and internationally. Chef Anthony Russo has created his concepts from years of applying his unique, family recipes featuring New York-style pizza along with a broad variety of handcrafted pasta creations, calzones, salads, sandwiches, soups and desserts, reflecting his commitment to his New York roots where food and family come first. To learn more about Russo’s franchise development opportunities, visit www.nypizzeria.com/franchise or contact Jim Carr, director of franchise development at j.carr@nypizzeria.com .

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RUSSO’S COAL-FIRED ITALIAN JOINS RESTAURANT LINE UP AT THE RIM

Thu, 04 Dec 2014 17:19:00 GMT

By Tricia Lynn Silva – San Antonio Business Journal

Houston-based Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen will open up a new dining option at the Northwest San Antonio mega-retailer known as The Rim.

The restaurant will make its Alamo City debut in the spring of 2015.

Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen is one of two brands under the larger banner of Russo’s Restaurants – the Kitchen being the firm’s upscale concept. The company is also the owner/franchisor behind Russo’s New York Pizzeria.

Both concepts are the brainchild of chef, founder and CEO Anthony Russo, who honed his skills for Italian fare in his parent’s Italian restaurant.

Of the new Kitchen in San Antonio, Russo pointed out that “there is nothing quite like Russo’s in San Antonio.” As the city grows, its diners are seeking out newer, fresher concepts, said Russo, who added that his company can’t wait to serve the kind of food local consumers will crave.

The Russo’s deal helps to cap off what has been a busy year for The Rim – including for its developer, Atlanta-based Thomas Enterprises Inc.

Thomas Enterprises kicked off 2014 with Phase 5 of the Rim – a $57 million project that added another 250,000 square feet to the center.

While this phase includes some more familiar names, it will also boast several newcomers – including Toby Keith’s I Love This Bar & Grill; Bowl & Barrel; and Hemispheres, a World of Fine Furnishings.

Russo’s Restaurants currently boasts 36 locations – a mix of national and international stores.

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WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE? BROADENING BUSINESS HORIZONS IN A SATURATED MARKET

Wed, 03 Dec 2014 17:29:00 GMT

By Anthony Russo – www.entrepreneur.com

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Franchisee Celebrates One Year in a Booming Business With Russo’s New York Pizzeria

Mon, 24 Nov 2014 15:13:00 GMT

Entrepreneurs who are looking for a winning restaurant franchise idea should take note of the success of Russo’s New York Pizzeria. Brad Davis is a Russo’s franchisee who this year celebrated the first anniversary of opening his own Russo’s franchise. Brad shares a little about the experience of becoming a part of the Russo’s family of restaurants.

But first: Why a Russo’s franchise?

“We researched over 150 franchises in our process,” Brad says. “We knew we wanted to open a restaurant in the four main ‘food groups’ of Texan food, BBQ, Hamburgers, Tex Mex or Pizza. We stumbled upon Russo’s through our real estate people. At our first meeting with Anthony and his team we fell in love with the food, atmosphere and corporate support staff. After seeing the numbers and visiting other Russo’s it was a no brainer for us. It was the perfect fit.”

Russo’s franchise of pizzerias stems from the traditional Italian-American upbringing of the company’s founder, Anthony Russo. After years of helping in his family’s restaurant and learning authentic recipes from relatives who visited the U.S. from Naples and Sicily, Anthony opened his first restaurant at the tender age of 18. In 1992, the first New York Pizzeria opened in Houston, and has been a success ever since.

The secret to Russo’s New York Pizzeria’s success is not only its delicious pizza, but all the quality ingredients and traditional cooking methods that go into making it. The pizzas and every ingredient that goes into them are made from scratch, using old-world recipes and the highest quality ingredients.

Each Russo’s New York Pizzeria restaurant features several stacked brick ovens, which reach temperatures in excess of 600 degrees in order to infuse hand-crafted pizzas and calzones with authentic flavors while adding to the atmosphere of the restaurant.

In its first year, Brad’s Russo’s location did a little over $2.1 million in total sales. The average ticket price is $33.00, the average food cost is 26.5%, and the average labor cost is 25.5%.

Brad says that after just a year in business — the restaurant’s anniversary was October 7 — his franchise is already growing rapidly.

“Our current restaurant is approximately 2900 square feet, offering take out and dine-in only,” he says, “but we are in the process of expanding to approximately 4500 square feet and will begin to offer delivery.”

If you’re looking for an excellent franchise opportunity in the restaurant business, choose one that has been making diners (and restaurant owners) happy since 1993. Learn more about how to join the Russo’s New York Pizzeria family!

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Joining a Strong, Competitive Brand

Fri, 14 Nov 2014 15:21:00 GMT

Just like the ingredients Chef Anthony uses in his kitchen, here at Russo’s we love to keep all aspects of our business fresh, including our branding.

Our new website represents each of the three Russo’s brands: Russo’s NY Pizzeria, Russo’s Coal Fired Italian Kitchen and Chef Anthony Russo’s all-natural gluten free pizzas. The mix of thin, script fonts – reminiscent of the elegant Italian countryside – and sans serif type faces – a nod to some of the most forward thinking restaurateurs of this century – creates a look that is uniquely Russo’s. Deep reds and striking accent colors create a bold contrast, one that pays homage to the bold and colorful dishes made in Chef Anthony’s kitchen every day.

This distinct core brand has inspired communities and investors to come back to Russo’s time and time again. The Russo family’s culture of tradition creates an amazing story , one that many customers can and do relate to their own family. Russo’s isn’t just the restaurant down the street it is their kitchen, too. This interaction builds an organic connection that, as outlined here in Inc. Magazine, is the future of branding.

While Russo’s dedication to community involvement is no new news, did you know that Russo’s is a popular brand with multi-unit franchise owners ? It is because Russo’s has equal appeal to both consumers and investors that it is such a strong, competitive brand. Our family oriented structure permeates communities quickly, establishing each restaurant as a go-to with families as well as Italian food lovers.

The same traditional Italian cooking that was passed down to Chef Anthony from his ancestors is still served to customers daily at each of our franchise locations. The Russo’s brand is continually looking for new franchisees to join the family. For more information, head to nypizzeria.com/franchise .

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WHAT CHEFS CAN TEACH YOU ABOUT STARTING YOUR DAY RIGHT

Tue, 07 Oct 2014 17:45:00 GMT

By JESSICA STILLMAN @ENTRYLEVELREBEL – Inc

BORROW THIS MORNING RITUAL FROM SOME OF THE WORLD’S BEST CHEFS TO PREVENT YOUR DAYS FROM DEVOLVING INTO REACTIVE CHAOS.

Any home cook can tell you that cooking well boils down to planning and prep, but world class chefs take this obsession with thinking ahead to a whole new level.

“Mise en place is the religion of all good line cooks,” Anthony Bourdain writes in his book Kitchen Confidential. “As a cook, your station, and its condition, its state of readiness, is an extension of your nervous system. The universe is in order when your station is set up the way you like it: you know where to find everything with your eyes closed, everything you need during the course of the shift is at the ready at arm’s reach, your defenses are deployed.”

That’s helpful advice if you want to wow your dinner guests with a great meal, but it’s also useful for non-culinary entrepreneurs. “Most of us do not work in kitchens. We do not interact with ingredients that need to be collected, prepped, or measured. And yet the value of applying a similar approach and deliberately taking time out to plan before we begin is arguably greater,” consultant and author Ron Friedman recently argued on the HBR blogs.

What does employing the “meez” as it’s known among chefs look like in practice for business people, and what benefits can you expect from following Bourdain’s lead? I reached out to a few entrepreneur devotees of the practice to learn about what mise en place does for them.

REACTIVE NO LONGER

The heart of the mise en place idea is preparedness. “Planning is universal. Show me a successful CEO and I’ll show you someone who has a plan. For chefs, it comes down to each component of prep and service. For a business professional, it’s looking critically at your day and understanding where your priorities lie,” explained Anthony Russo, chef and CEO of Russo’s Restaurants, who uses mise en place both in and out of the kitchen.

Among the bigger benefits of this sort of planning cited is the way readying your work thoughtfully at the start of each day keeps you from becoming reactive. With inbox notifications pinging, calls coming in, and the usual flurry of unexpected emergencies raining down, often times we end up feeling our days get swallowed up by events outside our control.

Not with mise en place. “In today’s business world, it is easy to become reactive,” says Jeff Connally, CEO of CMIT Solutions.”The more we pause, the slower we move in the direction of meeting our strategic goals. My ‘meez’ helps me schedule time to respond to email, phone calls and texts. It allows my to take control of my day and play an active role in achieving my goals.”

“As a business owner, I am constantly being pulled in a hundred different directions, but careful planning makes it doable for me to keep my eye on my stores as well as at the home office and in corporate affairs,” concurs Russo.

THE POWER OF BEING PRESENT

Scrambling to deal with unplanned eventualities doesn’t just sap your sense of control, it also divides your attention (and, if it’s really out of hand, can even bring on panic). Having everything you need within reach helps keep you calm and focused, according to Bill Redfern, CEO and founder of A Buyer’s Choice Home Inspections.

“I’m much more present with my team. If you look at your day as one big project, it can get overwhelming. But once you break up each component into smaller items, it’s easier to prioritize,” he explained to Inc.com. That clear-headedness is good for Redfern and his work, but he insists it also helps him be a better leader and bring out the best in his people. “The role of the CEO is to utilize the talent around you–that’s a critical part of mise en place,” he says.

HOW DO I GET STARTED?

If you’re convinced the idea might help you have less frantic workdays, these mise en place enthusiasts have plenty of advice for newbies. “Start by making a list of everything you have to accomplish. Break down projects into individual tasks, and highlight the items that need to be completed first. Once you get a sense of what you have to do, you’re able to spend your time smarter,” offers Russo as an overview.

A comprehensive and carefully thought-out list at the start of the day is essential for Redfern as well: “Just as a chef has a list of ingredients for a dish, a business professional has a list of ‘ingredients’ that drive him or her as well. Whether I’m strategizing a new product launch, opening a new territory or meeting with members of my team, I’ve found that it’s essential to make sure all the parts (ingredients) are in motion before we hit the trigger.”

Connally makes it three by also endorsing lists. “I conduct a brief planning session before I begin my day. The session begins with developing a to-do list,” he says, explaining that he breaks this down into high priority tasks and long-term goals so that he can check that the activities he’s spending his time on really move him towards his top priorities. He recommends the books of Gino Wickman to those looking to emulate his system.

A COUPLE OF CAUTIONS

While this process of prep work sounds straightforward, the entrepreneurs I spoke to offered a couple of cautions. First, planning is great, but no amount of list making can entirely eliminate the unexpected. “It’s also important to leave yourself some time for flexibility. Things always come up that demand your attention, so save room for them and it won’t throw off your whole plan,” insists Refern.

Secondly, “though the methodology is simple, disciplining oneself requires patience, practice and dedication. It requires thinking about the end result at the very beginning,” warns Connally.

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DON’T FALL FLAT

Wed, 01 Oct 2014 17:47:00 GMT

BY Nora Caley – Pizza Today

KEEP TABS ON YOUR FLATWARE COUNT

Noble Pie Parlor in Reno, Nevada, stays open until 5 a.m. on weekends, and that means one thing: the flatware is going to disappear.

“In Reno the bars don’t close, technically,” says co-owner Trevor Leppek. “We are serving pizza to customers who don’t realize there is a fork and knife on their plate and these get thrown in the garbage.”

Also the dishwashing staff, swamped with the late evening rush, might inadvertently throw out forks and knives when they discard food and other trash from bus tubs. No one has the time, or presumably the desire, to reach into the trash can to retrieve errant pieces intended for the dishwasher, so Leppek does two things. He reorders flatware every three months, a task made slightly easier by his vendor’s online reordering option. Leppek also communicates with workers through Noble Pie’s private, employees-only Facebook page.

“We use it for various things such as covering shifts, or informing the staff we lost this much glassware or flatware this weekend,” he says. “We are reminding them, ‘I know it seems insignificant to you because you’re not paying $80 to $100 every three months.’ “Operators have to budget for flatware just as they do plates, glasses and other small items that are lost due to employee haste, general breakage or customer theft. It is another line item in a long list of things that must be reordered occasionally.

Leppek does not think customers are stealing flatware. They steal the cheese shakers, he says, but that’s because the Parmesan is of high quality. “Our flatware is very simple looking,” he says. “They might think it’s funny to steal silverware, or their friends dare them, but they take the pint glasses more often.”

There is one exception and customers do seem to take home one small item. With Saturday and Sunday brunch Noble Pie Parlor offers a “Build Your Own Bloody Mary.” The setup includes pickled items, salt and pepper, horseradish, and other ingredients, and tiny forks and spoons to scoop these items. “We lose those,” Leppek says. “I think people think, ‘Oh that’s cute.’ ”

Other customers have much loftier targets. At 60-seat Blue Planet Grill in New York City, the steak knives often disappear. Owner Jacob Krumgalz says the three-year-old restaurant and pizza bar is located near Ground Zero, so the place is popular. He is too busy to watch all the customers, and he never sees people actually take the knives. “If we did see it we would call the cops, but we haven’t seen it,” he says. “We just see when they leave there is no knife on the table.”

Krumgalz says 80 percent of the clientele are tourists. They might be looking for souvenirs, as the regular forks and knives disappear, too. He buys a dozen forks and knives twice a year. “You have to keep at least three times your seating capacity in stock,” he says. “You don’t have time to wait for the flatware to get washed.”

Greg Ossege, a CPA and business advisor at Ossege Combs & Mann, Ltd., in Cincinnati, says when budgeting for flatware, expect to pay $275 per 200 seats when opening the restaurant. An operator will likely have to reorder a few times per year, and end up spending 15 to 25 percent of that amount for replacement cost. Ossege says that there is not much an operator can do about loss. “It is probably not worth the time to search through the trash,” he says. “Proactively though, use better training and supervision if the problem becomes severe.” He says some places use magnets on the trashcans to attract the metal forks and knives, saving them from being discarded.

That’s exactly what the 35-location Russo’s Restaurants does, says Anthony Russo, owner and founder of the Houston-based franchise. The restaurants, which include Russo’s New York Pizzeria, a fast-casual pizzeria franchise, and Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen, a full-service Italian restaurant franchise, have magnets on the trash cans. “We also only put one set of silverware per guest, as opposed to a ‘grab your own silverware’ area, at the tables,” Russo says. “These methods have been effective in reducing loss.”

The restaurants order flatware every two years, or when supplies get low. The orders are mostly dinner forks, dinner knives, and pasta spoons. “We don’t have much specialty silverware,” Russo says. Depending on the location size, the units spend about $2,000 to $4,000.

Al Dente Ristorante, which is located in Washington, D.C., and happens to have a fork and knife in its logo, checks its flatware inventory frequently. “You should count your silverware every 45 days,” says media manager Angie Duran. “To avoid losing pairs, you should try setting up a system for the bus boys to return all silverware to correct places throughout their shift.”

METAL OR PLASTIC?

People say “silverware” but of course they mean “flatware” or “tableware,” or forks, knives and spoons that are generally made of stainless steel or plastic. When choosing a stainless steel set, an operator usually has the option of 18/10 or 18/0. The numbers refer to the percentage of chromium and nickel content. The 18/10 option has 18-percent chromium and 10-percent nickel, and is shiny, rust resistant, and durable. The 18/0 has 18 percent chromium and zero percent nickel, and has a softer shine, is more economical and is subject to staining.

For some, the choice comes down to how the flatware looks. Trevor Leppek, co-owner of Noble Pie Parlor in Reno, Nevada, says he prefers a matte finish because the shiny finish shows scratches. Also a water spot makes a shiny and otherwise clean utensil look dirty. He does not want to switch to plastic. “Plastic ware is wasteful,” Leppek says. “We try to be as green as possible.”

Some plastic ware can be recycled, but it depends on the capabilities of the local recycling program. Check with your local entity. There is also biodegradable or compostable flatware made of corn. Those cost more, but they send your customers a message about your environmental friendliness.

Link to online story – 37,000 unique monthly visitors, 40,000 circulation

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RUSSO’S COAL-FIRED PIZZA IN RICHARDSON

Thu, 18 Sep 2014 17:48:00 GMT

BY ROCHELL VAN DEURZEN – sidedish.dmagazine.com

I am the first to admit that I tend to avoid chain restaurants. I am more readily willing to admit that I have a pizza addiction. Especially that thin, foldable, New York-style pizza.

When I tried Russo’s Coal-Fired Pizza in Richardson a while back, I didn’t anticipate being impressed. I met the owner, Anthony Russo, who was up from Houston for the day. He toured me around the kitchen and knew every nook, cranny, drawer, sauté pan, and tray like it was his own kitchen at home and not just another of his 30+ locations. That’s what gave me pause, because in my years in the restaurant business, I’ve never met an owner of even 2 restaurants that knew his way around a kitchen that well. And I think Anthony’s hands-on involvement with his business is what’s making it work so well for him.

That, and the food. I’ve been back several times for it. While the service isn’t always perfect, the food is always good. The ingredients aren’t processed, packaged junk, and he uses quality olive oil. He swears by using everything fresh in every single location of both concepts. The calzone won our Best of Big D in 2009. And every single store also ships in fresh ricotta cheesecake from Pasticceria Rocco in New York.

“If it’s not fresh, don’t serve it! That’s my rule,” he told me. It’s a family motto. The Russo family moved to New York from Italy in the 60s, and later moved to Texas. They opened their first restaurant in 1978 to bring New York Italian food to Texans, and it was a hit. Anthony was in that kitchen from a young age, and opened his New York Pizzeria in the 90s in Clear Lake. His concept was simple: an approachable pizzeria environment with the high-quality ingredients of a more upscale Italian restaurant. His business flourished in the Houston market, and in 2008 he started another concept, Russo’s Coal-Fired Pizza. With over 30 locations from Dubai to Hawaii (but mostly in Texas), you might expect a quality drop. But it’s just not there. The food is consistently good.

“Yes, it’s actually coal-fired pizza. You can see our oven. I went to another ‘coal-fired’ restaurant, with ‘coal’ right in their name, in North Dallas once. The oven doesn’t have coal! The owners thought it was too much of a hassle. How can they do that? You can really taste the difference,” Russo said.

He also has a heart for the gluten-free among us. He worked for 2 years on a recipe for a gluten-free crust, experimenting with different flours to achieve a thin crust with good texture. The base has that crunch from the oven, but the inside is still very chewy and moist, which is basically unheard of in the world of gluten-free restaurants. It’s made fresh in each location, as are all the pizza doughs and sauces. He offers multigrain and gluten-free pasta options. He visits his stores and makes sure the kitchens are keeping up to his standards.

So yes, he is building an empire. He is selling his own olive oils, canned tomatoes, and gluten-free crusts. The franchises are springing up everywhere. But Anthony is involved, he demands quality, he jumps on the line when he’s visiting his restaurants because he made the recipes himself.

Yes, I am genuinely impressed. This place has something going for it, and most chains lose quality as they grow. This one doesn’t seem to be losing anything. If thin-crust pizza is your thing (or calzones, or caprese, or great prosciutto), check it out.

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Hardcore Texans fans ready for gameday partying

Mon, 08 Sep 2014 17:51:00 GMT

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FAMILY NIGHT OUT: COAL FIRED ITALIAN & SWEET FINALES AT RUSSO’S & LUDGER’S

Wed, 03 Sep 2014 17:52:00 GMT

By Britt Greenwood, TulsaFood.com

Russo’s Coal-fired Italian Kitchen was constructed last year in a new shopping center located at 8941 S. Yale Ave. I was immediately jealous of the 15-foot-high sliding ladder wine rack we encountered at the hostess stand. The remainder of the décor was modern and upscale with just a tinge of corporate.

Prior to arrival we had already voted on a family carb-fest and forwent the tempting antipastas like Mussels Fra Diavolo. We opted for a more kid-friendly option: garlic knots. In the meantime we found that Russo’s doesn’t make you wait while you are hungry – the complimentary fresh bread and olive oil with herbs arrived to our table just in time.

The five bow-tied dough arrived, speckled with fresh parmesan and surrounded a marinara sauce. The wings of the knots were crunchy, the middle soft. As we submerged the knots into the sauce we began to discuss the most important decision of the day: what would we each order?

Instead of giving the miniature humans choices of chicken nuggets or a corn dog, Russo’s has two kid-friendly house italian options: a slice of pizza or choice of pasta. Both boys ordered pepperoni pizza. The slices held such length upon arrival, a triangle of pizza hung off the charger they were served on. We dubbed them “foot-long pizza.”

The dad at the table, Matt, ordered the Paisano pizza which came with pepperoni, sliced sausage and red onion; while I choose a pasta dish with prosciutto, onion, parsley and Romano cream sauce. Both arrived aesthetically on par but the flavor surpassed expectation. The pizza, being coal fired, created an entirely new pallet experience for our family. The crust had a firm chew and dough permeated with an unforgettable smokiness. Matt, a self-proclaimed pizza expert, raved and commented like a seasoned food critic. It was cute. “Just the perfect amount fennel in the sausage. It’s all well balanced,” he said.

The entrée portions are generous. I sadly waved goodbye to the second half of my meal I couldn’t finish as it was carried away to the kitchen. When we stood to leave, the 5-year-old thoughtfully inquired on an age-old food mystery, “If it is a red onion, why is it purple?” That, we will never know son.

Seeing Ludger’s Bakery only twenty feet away in the same shopping center near 91st and Yale, we took a family vote (which, as you would expect, came back unanimous) to finish our family food time with dessert and coffee there. Yes, the Ludger’s German Bakery that is a Tulsa staple for wedding cakes and events. They opened the South Tulsa location around the same time as Russo’s.

We were immediately willkommen (welcome) in the cheerful South Tulsa dine-in location- a bright atmosphere followed suite to the friendly staff. The boys were getting rowdy, but it was nothing an M&M cookie and Heavenly Brownie Bite couldn’t tame. (Heavenly Brownie=brownie baked with Reeses Peanut Butter Cup, chocolate chip cookie with a topping of peanut butter and fudge).

We adults settled on iced double-shot espresso macchiattos, red velvet cheesecake and an almond croissant. The cheesecake reminded of me why Ludger’s has been in business for over two decades.

Their famous Bavarian cream cheese was essentially magical fluff sleeping on a pillow of moist cake. The croissant-arguably a dessert itself was bathed in sweet almond paste.

As Matt and I finished off the last bite of cake, the sugar-high children were placing sticky prints on the windows and become far too curious with the display wedding cakes. It was apparent at this point we needed to dash; breezily hanging out at a coffeehouse just isn’t something families with wee ones do for good reason. Besides, I had to go run a marathon to work off all the calories.

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RUSSO’S NEW YORK PIZZERIA: AUTHENTIC PIZZA AND ITALIAN FOOD CLOSE TO HOME

Mon, 18 Aug 2014 17:58:00 GMT

By Woodlands Online

THE WOODLANDS, Texas – If you find yourself longing for authentic Italian food and New York style pizza, visit Russo’s New York Pizzeria.

“We serve fresh, fine Italian meals and award-winning New York style pizza and calzones while providing a casual dining experience,” said Guillermo Medellin, the franchise owner of The Woodlands and Conroe locations.

Russo’s combines the simplicity of a Pizzeria with the freshness of a fine Italian restaurant. “We use fresh ingredients, all of our sauces and soups are homemade, and we make our own pizza dough and toss it every day,” said Medellin.

In 2009, Medellin bought the Russo’s location in The Woodlands, and he just opened his second location in Conroe this past July. With two convenient locations, Russo’s is a great restaurant to enjoy delicious food with friends and family.

“Anthony Russo is the franchisor, chef and creator of all our delicious Italian recipes, and the concept of Russo’s,” said Medellin.

The Russo family started the business back in 1978 after their move from New York to Texas. This authentic restaurant uses recipes that have been passed down through many generations of the Russo family.

Some popular menu items at Russo’s are the NY Village Pizza (supreme), fettuccine alfredo, spaghetti with meat sauce, lasagna, and the chicken marsala. This restaurant also offers a party pizza with a diameter of 28″ that feeds 10-12 people! Medellin says some of his personal favorite menu items are the eggplant rollatini, chicken picatta, and the Spinach Artichoke and prosciutto pizzas.

It started when Medellin wanted to invest in a local business close to his family. He was a customer of Russo’s prior to owning, and decided to buy Russo’s in The Woodlands when the opportunity presented itself.

“Within the community, we constantly donate gift certificates, sponsor charity and Chamber of Commerce events, cater to schools and churches, and participate in community events,” said Medellin. His third location will be coming soon at the Kroger Spring Marketplace at the corner of Kuykendahl and West Rayford.

Located at 3335 College Park Drive, Suite 300, Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Italian Kitchen offers a wonderful environment and great Italian food. It is a great place to enjoy a meal with family or for a date night out. Stop by Russo’s New York Pizzeria and grab a bite of fresh Italian food and a slice of your favorite authentic pizza.

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Franchise Opportunity in West Texas

Mon, 16 Jun 2014 15:22:00 GMT

The next stop for Russo’s is Odessa, Texas. Currently, Russo’s is scouting qualified investors to open several restaurants in West Texas. This region is among one of the nation’s fastest growing markets with an evolving and booming economy.

Odessa’s changing demographic represents an increasing number of families moving into the city’s surrounding neighborhoods. The area proves to be a hotbed for authentic Italian cuisine, and has an especially strong need for eateries, specifically in the downtown area. Additionally, the city of Odessa and Main Street Odessa are encouraging businesses to develop within the downtown area to alleviate the strong need for lunch and dinner spots.

Russo’s is continuing to grow the brand into an international presence, and is making it easier than ever to get started on this exciting journey. With several restaurants planned to open across multiple markets, Odessa is currently among the hot markets for Russo’s.

Chef Anthony Russo, who started the business from scratch at the age of 17, is especially excited to spread the family focused business model to western Texas and is seeking interested investors in the area. For franchise information please contact Russo’s at nypizzeria.com/franchise .

To read about Russo’s Odessa expansion in the news, visit the Odessa American here .

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Multi-Unit Franchising

Thu, 08 May 2014 15:23:00 GMT

Russo’s continues to take the franchising world by storm with its innovative concept.

This April, Russo’s was present at the Multi-Until Franchising Conference in Las Vegas. At the appropriately titled “Planning for Growth” conference, investors were especially pleased with Russo’s lucrative business opportunity.

The Multi-Unit Franchising Conference is a unique event that is highly influenced by an advisory board made up of reputable multi-unit franchisees. This year, the Russo’s exhibitor booth was one of the most visited at the event.

“Our presence exuded passion – investors appreciated Russo’s ability to deliver high-quality food and an attractive business model,” said Chef and CEO Anthony Russo. “The positive feedback was incredible.”

Several themes were top of mind among interested investors. Most notably, Russo’s growth plan is phenomenal. More than 28 new franchises are coming on board, yet each Russo’s restaurant has a unique feel. Customers and investors alike are impressed with the mom-and-pop atmosphere of every restaurant.

Russo’s offers two unique and equally appealing concepts, both of which are completely adaptable into any market. Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Russo’s Coal Fired Italian Kitchen offer authentic Italian food with menu items ranging from NY-style pizza to seafood entrees and desserts. The design of the concepts is flexible enough to allow for the potential of large and small dining areas, delivery and takeout. At Russo’s restaurants, the possibilities are endless.

With more than 30 years of experience in restaurant management and ownership, Russo’s Restaurants has perfected the classic Italian dining experience, and the brand is making it easier than ever to get started on this exciting journey. For franchise information, please contact Russo’s at nypizzeria.com/franchise .

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Local Marketing

Wed, 16 Apr 2014 15:24:00 GMT

Local, local, local

Connecting with your community through local marketing is a proven way to succeed. There are many potential partnerships to tap into, all of which benefit the community as well as your business.

By utilizing local marketing techniques, you can turn your neighborhood into valued customers and friends. Many Russo’s owners are already reaping the benefits of affiliating with credible organizations, and play a major part in helping schools, other small businesses and local art and tourism.

Receiving a stamp of approval from the community goes a long way. Serving such local-based groups generates customer traffic to Russo’s restaurants throughout the week.

“Local marketing should be part of every business owner’s strategy. Since opening doors in 2005, we have been involved in numerous neighborhood events,” said Guillermo Medellin, owner of Russo’s New York Pizzeria in The Woodlands. “Over the course of five consecutive years, we’ve served Russo’s pizza to more than 90,000 visitors at the Woodlands Waterway Art Festival.”

In addition to being a vendor at local events, he has partnered with charities to give back money or share food with people in need. Consumer reception of his efforts has been inspiring. Following the success of his Woodlands location, Madellin is close to opening a second North Houston Russo’s restaurant in Conroe.

At Russo’s, our core values resonate with so many, because we understand the importance of community involvement.

With more than 30 years of experience in restaurant management and ownership, Russo’s Restaurants has perfected the classic Italian dining experience, and the brand is making it easier than ever to get started on this exciting journey. For franchise information please contact Russo’s at nypizzeria.com/franchise .

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Location Is Everything

Thu, 20 Mar 2014 15:25:00 GMT

So you’ve made the decision to open a franchise. Now, you have some important and exciting decisions to make. Where should you locate your new restaurant? Whether you’re opening a Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen or a New York Pizzeria, the Russo’s team is there right beside you to assure that you’re on your way to success from the start.

When you join the Russo’s family, you will have access to a wealth of commercial real estate experience, which is brought to the table through Russo’s partnership with The Retail Strategy. To ensure your site has the right dimensions, great street visibility and appeals to the right demographic, The Retail Strategy will aid you in finding a location by providing market analysis, area evaluations and lease negotiation assistance. Focusing exclusively on retail tenants, they are truly experts in the industry.

“It is important to us to develop great relationships with franchisees and be a valued partner, and we want to support our clients all the way through a successful store opening,” said Lauren Branner, broker and founder of The Retail Strategy.

Operating from Austin, The Retail Strategy supports Russo’s national expansion efforts. By serving as an outsourced real estate department, they are able to go beyond the scope of standard tenant representation. An entire team of experienced professionals is there to explore, evaluate and determine an ideal site with you. Plus, their ability to leverage existing relationships with landlords and representatives to provide cost saving strategies proves to be an immeasurable asset.

“When I signed on to become a franchisee, I was incredibly busy trying to get all of the pieces of the puzzle together,” said Richard Martinez, a co-owner of the Tulsa Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen, which he opened in 2013. “Thankfully, Russo’s set me up with The Retail Strategy and both teams were there to guide me – they made sure that I had the best location and lease. I couldn’t have done it without them.”

With more than 30 years of experience in restaurant management and ownership, Russo’s Restaurants has perfected the classic Italian dining experience, and the brand is making it easier than ever to get started on this exciting journey. For franchise information please contact Russo’s at nypizzeria.com/franchise .

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Russo’s Convention Provides Networking Opportunities for Franchisees

Mon, 03 Mar 2014 15:26:00 GMT

“How can I help you?”

As a restaurant owner, you’re probably very familiar with this phrase. Service is at the core of every restaurant – at Russo’s, we aim to provide the best, most timely service to our guests in order for them to enjoy an authentic Italian experience.

But the heart of the message – a passion for creating a helpful, supportive atmosphere – is found outside the walls of your local Russo’s as well. In fact, our franchisees took this to heart at the 2014 Russo’s Franchise Conference where, over the course of two days, home office personnel and franchisees came together for a time of support, reflection, learning and networking.

Beginning with a wine tasting and dinner where franchisees mingled, wined and dined, the weekend was off to a great start. Over the course of the weekend, attendees visited the Russo’s food distributor, attended a full day of seminars and presentations and toured the facility where the latest, most innovative technologies are put into practice each day for the Russo’s retail line.

“It was wonderful to come together as a family and collectively learn more about the best practices at the restaurants, marketing and operations,” said Alfred Naddaff, Russo’s director of franchise development. “More than anything, this conference reinforced the quality of franchisees we attract at Russo’s. They’re an incredibly supportive bunch – they spent a large amount of time getting to know one another better while sharing tips for running a successful Russo’s.”

With more than 30 years of experience in restaurant management and ownership, Russo’s Restaurants has perfected the classic Italian dining experience, and the brand is making it easier than ever to get started on this exciting journey yourself. For franchise information please contact Russo’s at nypizzeria.com/franchise .

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Did You Know That Only 30 Percent of Grocery Retail Items Succeed After Being Launched in Grocery Stores?

Fri, 28 Feb 2014 15:27:00 GMT

Small restaurants and food operators have an even smaller success rate at 11 percent. So what separates the proverbial wheat from the chaff?

We’d argue that the freshness and quality of ingredients is no small factors. Consumers are smart – they know when a product is made of artificial ingredients and mass-produced without a second thought.

Russo’s line of frozen, gluten-free pizzas is in the minority in that regard. At Russo’s, we care about what we put on grocery shelves because we know that consumers care about what goes into their bodies. All meats and cheeses are preservative-free and natural. Produce is sourced from local farms and farmers markets. The thin, crispy gluten-free crust is made with the finest ingredients in a certified gluten-free environment with no contaminants.

And the proof is in the numbers. After launching the frozen gluten-free pizza in six varieties, Russo’s has grown more than 300 percent – our pizzas are now available in more than 3,000 nationwide grocery stores.

So how does this figure into franchising? Well, it’s simple. When you join the Russo’s family, you’re part of a team that grows in all capacities – into new cities and in grocery stores. With significant brand recognition comes increased customer loyalty. With more than 30 years of experience in restaurant management and ownership, Russo’s Restaurants has perfected the classic Italian dining experience, and the brand is making it easier than ever to get started on this exciting journey yourself. For franchise information please contact Russo’s at nypizzeria.com/franchise .

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Russo’s Says “Aloha” to New Location in Hawaii

Mon, 27 Jan 2014 15:30:00 GMT

In just a few days, Russo’s will be opening a New York Pizzeria in Ewa Beach, Hawaii. This new location represents a big step in an exciting domestic and international growth strategy.

Hawaii isn’t the only new market – Russo’s is spreading its wings far and wide. In fact, Russo’s will be opening three new Middle Eastern locations in Qatar, Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates. These three spots will join an existing three Russo’s already established overseas in the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia.

Each of these new spots brings something special to the Russo’s family. For example, the new Hawaii restaurant is adding a touch of local flavor to the traditional Russo’s menu. Hawaii-inspired menu items like Pulled Pork Pizza and Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Pizza join’ classic homemade pastas, flatbread sandwiches, fresh salads and more.

“It has been a pleasure planning out our opening,” said Robert Carlisle, the Ewa Beach owner and newest addition to the Russo’s franchising family. “The team at corporate has been very supportive of the process, and I know my fellow Hawaiians are going to love experiencing a taste of true New York-style pizza right here in the Aloha State.”

With more than 30 years of experience in restaurant management and ownership, Russo’s Restaurants has perfected the classic Italian dining experience, and the brand is making it easier than ever to get started on this exciting journey yourself. For franchise information please contact Russo’s at nypizzeria.com/franchise .

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Russo’s Momentum Behind Gluten-Free Movement Is Strong

Fri, 10 Jan 2014 15:35:00 GMT

The beginning of the new year is a great time to kick bad habits to the curb and adopt a healthier lifestyle. For some, this means abstaining from sugar or soft drinks, for others it can mean trying a new eating regime like the Paleo diet or going gluten-free. But for many people, going gluten-free isn’t a choice – it’s a necessity.

One percent of Americans have Celiac disease or another intestinal disease that renders eating gluten impossible. That’s why Russo’s is committed to providing healthy, delicious and creative gluten-free options for its guests, both in the store and on shelves in more than 3,000 nationwide grocery stores.

And it’s not just health that’s affected – the gluten-free sector is a significant business opportunity. In fact, according to Bloomberg, gluten-free sales reached $4.2 billion in 2012 and are estimated to reach $4.8 billion by the end of 2013.

Not only are more stores selling gluten-free retail items, but restaurants all over the country are beginning to introduce more gluten-free options to their menus.

Chef Anthony Russo of Russo’s Restaurants is no stranger to this gluten-free movement – in fact, gluten-free pizza has been on his menu for several years. After sensing the popularity of gluten-free items, Chef Anthony spent two years developing a gluten-free pizza crust that is competitive in both taste and texture. In fact, in the last year alone, Russo’s Restaurants have sold more than $1 million worth of gluten-free food – and that includes the frozen gluten-free pizza line.

With more than 30 years of experience in restaurant management and ownership, Russo’s Restaurants has perfected the classic Italian dining experience, and the brand is making it easier than ever to get started on this exciting journey yourself. For franchise information please contact Russo’s at nypizzeria.com/franchise .

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Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen in Tulsa Has Caught the Attention of Local Media

Sun, 01 Dec 2013 15:36:00 GMT

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Why Is Russo’s a Great Franchise?

Tue, 12 Nov 2013 15:37:00 GMT

Why is Russo’s a great franchise? Don’t take it from us, listen to Brad Davis, the owner and manager of the newest Russo’s New York Pizzeria in the family – he and his family run the business out of Pflugerville, a suburb of Austin, Texas.

1. What made you choose to open a Russo’s franchise over other options?
Russo’s was looking to grow in Pflugerville, and we were looking to open a business. We knew from our meetings with Anthony Russo that he had great family values and shared our mindset that a family-style restaurant was important. We found him to be a supportive franchisor and all the food we sampled was delicious!

2. What three qualities do you think a Russo’s franchisee must have in order to be successful?
The desire to provide the community with a great dining experience, a strong work ethic and a hunger for success.

3. How do you feel about the support you’ve gotten from the corporate office?
The support has been excellent since day one. All of the corporate staff including Anthony have been available to assist us in this process and have quickly responded to our needs.

4. What has been the most challenging part of opening a Russo’s franchise?
The build-out process was challenging but rewarding.

5. What has been the most rewarding part of opening a Russo’s franchise?
It’s all been great, but the best feeling is seeing our guests pleased with our food and service. We love to see our guests come back again and again!

Interested in opening your own Austin restaurant franchise? Russo’s is the top Austin Italian franchise for you. If what Brad had to say hasn’t sold you yet, get in touch with us today! Fill out our contact form here or call us at 855-978-7767. We look forward to hearing from you!

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What Makes Russo’s Different?

Fri, 25 Oct 2013 15:39:00 GMT

If you’ve got the capital, the restaurant experience and the business savvy, you could theoretically take your money anywhere and get involved with a wide array of franchises. We’re not being prideful, but we think we’re the best pizza and Italian franchise, and we’d love for you to join us.

But why choose a Russo’s franchise?
We’ll give you five reasons.

1. Menu Innovation
As an Italian restaurant concept committed to authenticity in every capacity, you’ll find antipasti, insalata and zuppa alongside pizzas, calzones and pastas. And don’t forget the dessert – Chef Anthony’s personal recipe for cannoli is situated right next to the perfect wine pairing for your meal. Plus, we have a fantastic-looking menu – a visual journey through a meal, Russo’s menus are chock full of beautiful pictures to give the diner a look at the dishes and drinks that make up the Russo’s experience.

2. Variety & Growth Opportunities
Russo’s Restaurants are twice as nice. We have two restaurant franchise concepts – casual, family-friendly Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen, the pizzeria’s sophisticated older brother. Whether you’re looking to own three Russo’s or five, you’ll have the opportunity to look into multi-unit franchise ownership and start building your empire.

3. Unparalleled Support
You wouldn’t scale the side of a mountain without a lifeline, and likewise, we’ll never leave you hanging. You’ll have access to helpful, friendly restaurant franchisee support and we’ll always welcome your questions, comments and suggestions.

4. Culture & Leadership
When you become a member of the Russo’s family, you’re in it for life. You may not be Italian, but by the end of your training, you’ll be just as passionate about creating the authentic Italian restaurant experience as we are. Plus, you’ll have access to top-notch industry leaders in restaurant franchising, development and training.

5. Quality of Food
You’ve probably visited a restaurant where you thought to yourself, “if this is the way the food looks and tastes, I don’t even want to know what their kitchens are like.” At Russo’s, we are committed to using fresh ingredients for the best possible dining experience. From the in-house hand-pulled mozzarella cheese in entrees and on pizzas to the fresh, never-frozen vegetables and herbs peppering each delectable, authentic Italian dish, we don’t skimp on quality. Plus, we’re passionate about using as many local ingredients as we can. Our extra-virgin olive oil comes directly from Italian olive groves.

www.nypizzeria.com/franchise

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WHY FRANCHISE? – TULSA’S SUCCESS SAYS IT ALL!

Wed, 16 Oct 2013 12:08:00 GMT

There’s a statistic floating around the Internet that professes 60 percent of new restaurants fail in the first three years. Why do so many well-intended dining establishments go belly-up? Maybe it’s the lack of marketing experience, lack of capital, lack of support, steep learning curve or possibly a combination of all these factors and more. Perhaps the owner did not spend an adequate amount of time testing the menu, or maybe he or she didn’t have enough experience in the restaurant business to be able to accurately predict food and labor costs. Maybe they were not skilled at negotiating the lease space and paid more than necessary? The curse of being in business alone…

These concerns are why so many savvy restaurateurs decide to invest in franchises, and why Richard Martinez, a Tulsa restaurateur, decided to invest in a proven concept – Russo’s. A prime example of this reality is Russo’s latest opening in Tulsa, Okla. The team Tulsa franchisee Richard Martinez heads brings exceptionally high numbers – and they’ve seen success from day one. Averaging $50,000 per week with 22 percent food costs and 27 percent labor costs, Tulsa’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen is sitting pretty in Russo’s goal profit margin between 18-26 percent. In fact, they’re so successful that they’re projected to make $2.5 million annually. Right now, they’re bringing in about $720 per square foot. All for a total investment cost (franchisee fee, construction, equipment, working capital, etc.) of less than one third projected sales. How many concepts have that type of investment and profit opportunity?

“What attracted me to Russo’s are the family recipes,” said Martinez. “The menu is so unique, and there was no need for me to come up with my own recipes. Russo’s has developed a simple system using fresh ingredients.”

Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen in Tulsa is 3,200 square feet and employs 22 people. Equipped with indoor and outdoor seating for more than 150 guests, the restaurant is stunning local diners with its open kitchen concept and sophisticated wine bar. With dine-in sales as well as delivery and catering, the opportunities are endless.

With more than 30 years of experience in restaurant management and ownership, Russo’s Restaurants has perfected the classic Italian dining experience, and the brand is making it easier than ever to get started on this journey yourself. For franchise information please contact Russo’s at nypizzeria.com .

The post WHY FRANCHISE? – TULSA’S SUCCESS SAYS IT ALL! appeared first on Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Italian Kitchen .

The post WHY FRANCHISE? – TULSA’S SUCCESS SAYS IT ALL! appeared first on Russo's New York Pizzeria Franchise .