From Calzones to Cash Flow: Why Italian Food Franchises are a Smart Bet
With so many food franchise opportunities out there, choosing one to invest in can seem overwhelming. But one thing is for sure, Italian food is a hit all across America. In fact, the U.S. Italian restaurant market was worth $84.6 billion in 2022. For franchise owners, this means an opportunity to get a piece of that booming market while bringing happiness — and great food — to their communities.
Italian food franchises go beyond just pizza. Pasta, seafood , fruits, vegetables, cheese, cold cuts and wine are central to Italian cuisine. Not only is it delicious, but it is satisfying, nutritious and perfect for sharing. Italian food franchises have family-friendly atmospheres, making them an attractive addition to any community and and exciting business opportunity.
Below, we look at some of the top Italian food franchises that are a smart bet for your next business venture.
Top Italian Food FranchisesD.P. Dough 
Since 1987, D.P. Dough has been serving calzones to university communities across the U.S. With many locations strategically located near college campuses, the Italian food franchise has gained a cult-like following of hungry students looking to satisfy their cravings. D.P. Dough’s menu has something for everyone, including vegan options, and features customizable calzones at the brand’s “construction zones.”
Johnny’s Italian Steakhouse
When the first Johnny’s Italian Steakhouse opened in Des Moines, Iowa, in 2002, it quickly received rave reviews. Since then, the Italian food franchise has expanded to more than a dozen locations across Iowa, Illinois, Wisconsin, Nebraska, Kansas, Ohio and Texas, with more in development. Johnny’s distinguishes itself with a unique blend of 1940s and 1950s nightclub ambiance, updated with modern touches. In addition to a great menu of Italian-inspired appetizers, salads, sandwiches and pasta, the brand’s Blue Bar provides guests with a lively lounge environment.
Ledo Pizza
The Ledo Pizza franchise has been operating since 1955 and is famous for its Maryland-style pizza. The pizza franchise is committed to franchisee success through its T.O.M.P (technology, operations, marketing and procurement) strategy. Not only is Ledo at the forefront of technology with online ordering and an in-store point of service system, but the Italian food franchise has partnerships with sports teams like the Baltimore Ravens and Baltimore Orioles and a procurement team that is dedicated to the supply chain. Franchisees can own a single Ledo location or an entire region.
Newk’s Eatery
Newk’s Eatery is a fast-casual Italian franchise that has been serving great food with Southern hospitality since 2004. Soups, salads, sandwiches and pizzas are just some of the comfort food on the brand’s menu, and catering is offered for office lunches, family reunions, tailgates or birthday parties. Franchise owners can choose from multiple prototypes, including one with an optional drive-thru. Newk’s puts technology at the center of its business model, and franchisees can do well by doing good; the Italian food franchise has raised more than $2 million for the Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance through the Newk’s Cares initiative.
Paciugo Gelato Caffè 
Paciugo Gelato Caffè is an authentic Italian ice cream franchise that serves shakes, smoothies, specialty coffee, and more. Founder Ugo Ginatta, a third-generation restaurateur from Turin, Italy, conceived the idea of establishing the business out of his desire to bring the flavors of his home country to the world. Ginatta moved to the U.S. in 1999 with a secret family gelato recipe, and he has since grown the Italian franchise across Texas, Florida, and Virginia. The brand is seeking single- and multi-unit developers who have leadership skills and can follow a system.
Russo’s New York Pizzeria
Russo’s New York Pizzeria is on a mission to bring New York-style pizza to regions like Nevada, Texas, Utah, Florida, Arizona, North Carolina, Tennessee, Alabama, Louisiana, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Colorado, Nebraska, Georgia, Massachusetts, and Pennsylvania, as well as international markets including Saudi Arabia and the Philippines. The brand’s menu features pizza by the slice, pasta, calzones, salads, and sandwiches, with services including dine-in, takeout, and delivery. Selling points for entrepreneurs looking to invest in this Italian franchise include strong unit-level economics, access to suppliers and resources, minimal staff requirements, and marketing and advertising support.
Samuel Mancino’s Italian Eatery
Samuel Mancino’s Italian Eatery was established in 1959 and began franchising in 1994. The Italian franchise offers strong purchasing power with vendors and national account arrangements and maximized product usage and minimal waste and storage requirements to reduce costs. The brand’s menu includes pizza, calzones and its traditional sub-sandwich called the “meat grinder,” (above) which comes in classic (ham and cheese, chicken and bacon and more) and gourmet (buffalo chicken, chipotle turkey and more) varieties.
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