Cici’s Pizza

Cicis Pizza, based in Coppell, Texas, is a well-established American restaurant chain known for its all-you-can-eat pizza buffets. The company was founded in 1985 by Joe Croce and Mike Cole in Plano, Texas, and quickly became a favorite among families and budget-conscious diners. Its buffet-style dining, featuring a range of pizzas, pastas, salads, and desserts, helped Cicis expand rapidly through the 1990s and early 2000s. By 2001, the chain had grown to 363 locations, and by 2005, it surpassed 500 restaurants, marking it as one of the fastest-growing pizza chains in the United States.

As of November 2025, Cicis operates 274 locations across more than 30 states, with a strong focus on suburban and family-oriented markets in the southern and midwestern United States. The brand has adapted over the years to meet changing consumer tastes, rebranding in 2015 from “CiCi’s Pizza” to “Cicis” and launching the “Beyond Pizza” campaign to emphasize its expanded menu offerings, which include chicken wings, pasta, salads, and desserts. Noteworthy innovations such as the introduction of the 28-inch “Piezilla” in 2022 and the launch of Cicis Rewards™, a loyalty program celebrating the brand’s 40th anniversary, highlight its ongoing commitment to value and customer engagement.

Cicis experienced significant challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to a financial restructuring and its acquisition by D&G Investors in 2021. This transition stabilized the company and set the stage for renewed growth, with a focus on franchise expansion and menu innovation. The brand is actively seeking franchise partners and new locations, particularly in Texas, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, North Carolina, and Ohio.

For commercial real estate professionals, Cicis offers a reliable and scalable tenant option with its proven buffet format and adaptable store concepts. Its national recognition and franchise-driven growth strategy make it an attractive anchor for retail centers looking to attract high-traffic, family-friendly dining options. Cicis’ resilience and commitment to providing value ensure its continued relevance in the competitive restaurant industry.