Riko’s Pizza, one of two Stamford, Connecticut-based brands known for its Hot Oil Bar Pie, opened its first full-service location in Norwalk, Connecticut, this week. The franchise concept said the full-service model will be “central to [its] expansion in its home market of Connecticut and throughout the country.”
Founded in Stamford in 2012, Riko’s Pizza is known for its “super thin-crust, tavern-style pies,” a press release said. Riko’s is growing via franchising, and the Norwalk location is the brand’s 11th. It is the sixth Riko’s Pizza location in Connecticut, but the brand also has locations in New York, Florida and Vermont. According to its website, a location in North Carolina will soon open as well.
“The wait is over—we are thrilled to announce the grand opening of our new Norwalk location at 85 New Canaan Ave,” said Rico Imbrogno, co-founder and CEO of Riko’s Pizza, via press release. “Riko’s has faithfully served the Norwalk community for 12 years, and we look forward to providing our new and loyal customers a new and improved experience with our full-service model.”
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A press release highlighted some of the features of the new full-service location in Norwalk. It appears the brand is trying to emphasize the “local neighborhood atmosphere and extensive selection of craft drinks” it has become known for.
Key features of the new Riko’s Pizza of Norwalk include:
- Complete Riko’s Pizza menu of tavern-style pizzas, oven-roasted wings, made-to-order salads, fan-favorite desserts and a growing list of appetizers
- More than 4,600 square-feet of space, designed with Riko’s “iconic rustic-urban décor and incorporating the character of the local community”
- 37-foot-long bar with 24 stools and 24 beers on tap
- 16 large, high-definition TVs behind the bar and throughout the restaurant
- Over 21 wines and specialty cocktails
- Convertible outdoor dining space
- Accommodations for up to 150 guests to help host large groups, kids’ parties, fundraisers, live music and other special events
- A separate carry-out order section for easier takeout and delivery
“This opening builds on Riko’s continued expansion and brand evolution,” said Carl Bachmann, President and chief operating officer of Riko’s. “By transitioning our Norwalk location to our amazing full-service model, we can better-serve our customers in the market, offering a premium dine-in experience while continuing to provide convenient takeout and delivery. This winning full-service model will be what we continue to expand with, both in our beloved home state of Connecticut—the undisputed pizza capital of America—and around the country. This is an exciting next step for the business, and we look forward to serving the Norwalk community through this beautiful new location for years to come!”
