Villa Enterprises Adds Local Flavor to its Plate of National Food Brands
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Villa Enterprises Adds Local Flavor to its Plate of National Food Brands

August 06, 2008 // Franchising.com // - Villa Enterprises Management, one of the fastest growing multi-concept restaurant franchisors in America, has added Mama Mia Pizza and Restaurant of Morristown New Jersey to its four other extraordinary upscale stand-alone restaurant brands in the state. Villa Enterprises completed its purchase of Mama Mia in April, 2008. As part of Villa's strategy to diversify its portfolio with high-end restaurants that feature a superb local reputation Villa Enterprises also purchased the historic Black Horse Inn and McKenzie's in Mendham New Jersey (2007), Ill Forno in Warren New Jersey(2005), and George and Martha's American Grille in Morristown New Jersey, which it built from the ground up and opened in 2006.

"This is an exciting time for us," said Anthony Scotto, Villa's Executive Vice President. "We're always looking at ways we can grow our premium brands, and by adding these fantastic local establishments to our portfolio we're also maximizing the appeal of our national brands."

Anthony and his brother Biagio, Villa's President, took over running the company from their father and company founder Michele Scotto in the 1990's, and have been instrumental in initiating the latest growth phase. The Scotto's think it's important to point out that since their national base of operations is located in Morristown – a short distance from each restaurant – locals who've developed a loyal devotion to these restaurants have no need to worry about Villa modifying the formulas that have made each one such a resounding success.

"We don't need to fix what isn't broken, and our proximity to each gives us a great sense of what makes them tick. But we do plan on a determined effort to get the word out in the tri-state area about how fantastic these restaurants are and promote them across the region," said Biagio Scotto.

The Black Horse Inn, whose three buildings originally served as a farm house and blacksmiths shop, was renovated in 1740 into a prominent guest house and stagecoach on the Newark to Pennsylvania run, and still contains many of its centuries old artifacts and antiques. Mackenzie's, located down the road from the Black Horse, was founded in 1970 by a world-renowned pub owner from Scotland. George and Martha's, noted for its classic American fare, nightly drink specials and entertaining event schedule, is located just blocks from the historic Morristown Green and near George Washington's military headquarters. Mama Mia Pizza and Restaurant in Morristown and Il Forno in Warren both feature authentic Italian cuisine and specialty pizzas served in a family-friendly dining atmosphere.

About Villa Enterprises

Villa Enterprises Management, based in Morristown, New Jersey, was founded by Naples, Italy native Michele Scotto in 1964 as a tiny pizzeria next to the Ed Sullivan Theater in New York City. Thanks to Michele's vision and the commitment of his two sons Biagio and Anthony, Villa has now grown into an international organization comprising locations on 3 continents.

Villa Enterprises brands are located in a multitude of locations from malls, airports, outlets, casinos and college campuses with it flagship store located in Times Square, and its affiliates have over 300 stores in 37 states and 5 countries.

In addition to Villa Pizza – their flagship brand concept – Villa operates four core brands including Villa Fresh Italian Kitchen, Green Leaf's, Banana's and South Philly Steaks & Fries. Villa's diverse full service restaurants offerings include Italian cuisine, Upscale American Cuisine and Steakhouses. After opening George and Martha's of Morristown in 2006, Villa Enterprises recently purchased renowned New Jersey establishments The Black Horse Tavern and The Black Horse Pub as well as McKenzie's in Mendham.

Villa Enterprises corporate offices and test kitchens are located at 25 Washington Street in Morristown, New Jersey. Please visit their website at www.villaenterprises.com or call 973-285-4800 for more information.

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