Nancy’s Pizzeria

Nancy’s Pizzeria is a family-owned restaurant group recognized for creating Chicago’s original stuffed pizza, a style that has become a staple of the city’s food scene. The company was founded in 1971 by Rocco and Annunziata (Nancy) Palese, who brought their Italian heritage and culinary traditions to Chicago’s West Side. Their first location introduced a stuffed pizza recipe that quickly gained local acclaim and set the foundation for the brand’s growth.

Over the years, Nancy’s Pizzeria expanded throughout Illinois and neighboring states, steadily building a reputation for its hearty pizzas and classic Italian-American fare. By the late 1990s, the company had reached more than a dozen locations, marking a significant milestone in its regional development. As of November 2025, Nancy’s Pizzeria operates approximately 25 stores, with the majority in Illinois and additional locations in Georgia and North Carolina.

In the past five years, Nancy’s has broadened its footprint beyond its Chicago roots, opening new stores in the Midwest and Southeast. Recent entries into Georgia and North Carolina reflect a commitment to strategic growth in suburban retail centers and high-traffic urban corridors. The company continues to seek new franchise partners, focusing on communities with strong family demographics and established demand for premium pizza concepts.

Nancy’s Pizzeria offers flexible formats, including dine-in, carryout, and delivery, allowing the brand to adapt to a variety of retail environments and consumer preferences. The company remains privately held and under the leadership of the founding family, maintaining its credibility and consistency as it expands. For landlords, brokers, and developers, Nancy’s presents a reliable operator with a proven ability to drive traffic and successfully integrate into both suburban and urban retail settings. Franchise opportunities are available in select markets, with ongoing expansion prioritized in Illinois, Georgia, North Carolina, Indiana, and Wisconsin. All contact and social media information is current as of November 2025.