Russo’s New York Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen Is Expanding to the Bay Area

Houston-based Italian restaurant chain Russo’s New York Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen is expanding to the Bay Area, according to Chain Store Age .

Behind the growth are franchisees Dr. Shaukat Shah and Asad Shah , who have signed a multi-unit agreement to open new locations in San Joaquin, Danville, Modesto, San Joaquin, and Stockton.

“During our visit to Russo’s location in Houston while exploring various pizza franchise options, Russo’s truly stood out among the competition,” Shah tells the journal.

“The exceptional quality of ingredients and flavors convinced us to choose Russo’s for our franchise venture and to establish multiple locations in California. What attracted us to owning a Russo’s pizza franchise was the direct access to Chef Anthony Russo, the brand’s founder, instead of dealing with a large corporation where personal connection might be lacking.”

What Now San Francisco contacted Dr. Shah to inquire about addresses and opening dates, but he could not provide additional information before publication.

Nevertheless, we know that “the California restaurants will be 1,500- to 2,000-sq.-ft. in size and feature an open kitchen design and a large outdoor patio,” as reported by Chain Store Age .

Follow Russo’s on Facebook for updates.

Keep up with What Now San Francisco’s restaurant, retail, and real estate scoop by subscribing to our newsletter , liking us on Facebook , and following us on Twitter . Opening a restaurant? Browse our Preferred Partners .