Russo’s New York Pizzeria pushes nationwide franchise growth

By AI, Created 4:32 PM UTC, May 18, 2026, /AGP/ – Russo’s New York Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen launched a national franchise development campaign on May 12, 2026, targeting growth markets in Texas, Florida, Arizona, North Carolina and Tennessee. The brand is leaning on two restaurant formats, a diversified menu and reported average unit volume of about $1.165 million to attract qualified investors.

Why it matters: - Russo’s New York Pizzeria is expanding into new U.S. markets with a pitch aimed at franchise buyers seeking multiple revenue streams, not just a traditional pizza shop. - The campaign matters because the brand is highlighting full-service dining, slice sales, delivery and catering as ways to broaden unit economics. - The company is also pointing to a reported average store volume of approximately $1.165 million in Item 19 of its Franchise Disclosure Document.

What happened: - Russo’s New York Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen announced a national franchise development campaign on May 12, 2026. - The campaign targets qualified candidates in Texas, Florida, Arizona, North Carolina and Tennessee, including Nashville. - The brand was founded by Chef Anthony Russo. - Russo’s currently operates 50-plus locations across domestic and international markets.

The details: - Russo’s is offering two franchise formats. - Russo’s New York Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen is the full-service model. - Russo’s NY Slice Bar is the smaller format focused on pizza by the slice, whole pies, takeout, delivery and catering. - The Slice Bar is designed for high-traffic retail areas, business districts, college towns and delivery-focused locations. - Typical Slice Bar size is 1,200-1,500 square feet. - The full-service Italian Kitchen model includes New York-style pizza, pasta, appetizers, salads, desserts, wine, beer and catering. - Typical full-service size is 1,800-3,500 square feet. - Russo’s says the concept is built around a diversified Italian menu that can support sales throughout the day. - The brand lists gourmet pasta, pizza by the slice, catering, direct delivery, online ordering and chef-driven recipes as key advantages. - In select qualified markets, Russo’s offers halal-friendly franchise opportunities using approved ingredients, vendors and operational procedures. - Estimated startup investment is about $395,000 or more, depending on model and market. - Minimum liquid capital is $200,000. - Third-party financing may be available for qualified candidates. - Full financial details are in the Franchise Disclosure Document. - The Item 19 disclosure reports an average store volume of approximately $1.165 million. - Russo’s says individual results vary by location, market and operator performance. - Franchise support includes site selection guidance, store design, operations training, recipe and menu training, marketing support and grand opening assistance.

Between the lines: - Russo’s is positioning itself as a more flexible alternative to pizza-only chains. - The focus on catering, lunch traffic, delivery and full-service dining suggests the brand wants franchisees to rely on more than evening dine-in sales. - The halal-friendly pitch broadens the brand’s appeal in markets where ingredient and preparation standards may matter to local demand. - The national campaign also leans on social proof, including franchisee testimonials and video content.

What’s next: - Russo’s plans to recruit qualified franchise candidates in its target states. - The brand will promote its expansion with franchisee testimonials and video content. - Prospective buyers are expected to review the Franchise Disclosure Document before moving forward. - More information is available at Request Franchise Information.