Il Fornaio

Il Fornaio is an Italian restaurant group with a longstanding presence in California and Nevada. The company was founded in 1986 in Corte Madera, California, originally as a bakery before evolving into a full-service restaurant concept that highlights traditional Italian recipes, fresh pasta, and wood-fired specialties. Over the years, Il Fornaio has built a reputation for delivering a genuine Italian dining experience in an inviting setting.

A significant milestone in the company’s history came in 2019, when Il Fornaio was acquired by Create Restaurants Holdings Inc., a move that reinforced its stability and positioned it for continued success. As of November 2025, Il Fornaio operates 16 restaurants concentrated in major metropolitan areas such as Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Las Vegas. The brand’s locations are typically found in high-visibility, high-traffic environments, including mixed-use developments and prominent retail centers.

During the past five years, Il Fornaio has maintained a selective approach to growth, focusing on optimizing performance at existing sites and seeking new opportunities only in markets that align closely with its brand and target clientele. The company has not announced any major expansion initiatives for 2025, instead prioritizing operational excellence and guest experience. This measured strategy has allowed Il Fornaio to remain a reliable, full-service tenant with a consistent track record in both urban and suburban settings. The company does not offer franchise opportunities, and all real estate contacts are verified through professional channels.

Il Fornaio’s approach to location and operations makes it a credible and stable anchor for landlords, brokers, and developers looking to enhance the culinary appeal and destination value of their properties.