Russo's Restaurants, the family of dining concepts that includes Russo's New York Pizzeria and Russo's Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen, announced today plans to significantly enhance the brands' footprint in Houston and the surrounding areas.

Demonstrating the excitement around both brands, Russo's opened the company's first location in Conroe, Texas, in July. An additional 10-12 restaurants are planned to open this year in key Texas markets like Dallas, Houston, San Antonio, and Austin. There are 25 Russo's Restaurants in development.

"We've exceeded our growth goals," says Chef Anthony Russo, a formally trained chef who opened his first Russo's New York Pizzeria in 1992 and later developed Russo's Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen. "Russo's expansion just cannot be contained, and we are pleased to provide our loyal fans with additional Russo's locations in these promising markets."

Today's news follows an extraordinary year for Russo's Restaurants. In 2013, Russo's signed agreements to open four new restaurants and opened six. The year ahead represents the brand's most aggressive growth phase yet.

"Our home market of Houston is so important to us," says Chef Russo. "We can't wait to give our loyal fans even more of what they crave: delicious, New York-style pizza and Italian food in a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere."

With a significant presence already established in all major Texas cities, as well as key markets in Arkansas, Oklahoma, Florida, Hawaii, and the Middle East, Russo's franchise development team is looking to Houston and the surrounding areas for additional growth. The company currently has more than 15 locations in Houston.

"Our franchise opportunities can't be beat. We have exciting opportunities in profitable U.S. markets for franchise growth," says Chef Russo. "For those looking to develop three or more units of one of the best pizza concepts or a distinctive full-service Italian restaurant, our flexible incentives are sure to impress. Our pilot program is designed for a franchisee that is looking for the chance to own part of a brand that is built to stand the test of time."

Franchisees have found success in Russo's proven concepts. The New York Pizzeria is family-style casual, and the Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen is a bit more upscale full-service concept.

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