Famous Famiglia

Famous Famiglia is a well-established pizzeria brand known for serving authentic New York-style pizza. The company was founded in 1990 by the Kolaj family, who immigrated from Albania and opened their first location in New York City. This origin story has shaped the brand’s commitment to traditional recipes and a consistent pizza experience that mirrors what customers would find in Manhattan.

Over the past five years, Famous Famiglia has focused on expanding its reach beyond North America, pursuing growth in international markets and major urban centers. A notable milestone in this evolution is the opening of its first European location in Pristina, Kosovo, which marked the brand’s entry into the European market and reinforced its global ambitions. As of November 2025, Famous Famiglia operates 100 locations across eight countries, including the United States, Canada, Mexico, the United Arab Emirates, South America, China, Africa, and Kosovo.

Today, the company primarily operates as a quick-service restaurant, offering dine-in, takeout, and delivery options. While New York-style pizza remains at the core of its menu, Famous Famiglia also serves pasta, salads, and other Italian specialties. The brand’s restaurants are designed to evoke the energy and authenticity of a classic New York City pizzeria, appealing to a wide range of customers in high-traffic commercial areas.

Famous Famiglia’s growth strategy centers on entering key international markets, with particular attention to Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Latin America. The brand continues to seek new real estate opportunities in high-visibility, accessible locations, reflecting its active expansion posture. With a proven track record, strong brand recognition, and a flexible quick-service format, Famous Famiglia offers a reliable and recognizable option for landlords, brokers, and developers looking to attract established restaurant operators to their properties.