In a whirlwind of marinara and garlic-fused festivities, Fazoli’s, the beloved Italian-American fast-casual restaurant, is marking its two-year anniversary.
Located at 238 W. Alexander Street, Fazoli’s has been delighting patrons with its delectable array of freshly prepared pasta dishes. From classic favorites like spaghetti and meatballs to baked ziti, Fazoli’s has consistently delivered a taste of Italy with every bite.
Plant City Fazoli’s owner Rodney Keys promises to be a pasta lover’s dream, with a Florida Strawberry Festival coupon in this week’s Plant City Observer, offering customers a “Buy One Small Pasta, Get One Free” coupon, which includes spaghetti with marinara or meat sauce or fettuccine Alfredo.
Reflecting on the past two years, Keys expressed gratitude for the community’s overwhelming support. “It’s been an incredible journey,” he remarked. “We’ve been fortunate to serve our loyal guests and share our passion for Italian cuisine.This anniversary is a testament to the dedication of our hardworking team and the love of our wonderful customers.”
When he first purchased the business, he said the restaurant was closed and sales were in the tank. “We had to rebuild it,” he said.
Keys is seeing the fruits of his labors. For the last three weeks, the store has surpassed week-over-week sales records. “We have plaques in the store commemorating our trend in sales,” he said.
While happy with his sales numbers, Keys is more satisfied that his business is able to support the community. His first year in business, he donated meals to the Florida Strawberry Festival. Now, he is a regular sponsor of Burney Elementary School, has participated in events at Knights Elementary and the Plant City Black Heritage Festival, has sponsored sports teams at Plant City High School. “They’re #fueledbyFazoli’s,” he quipped. “We love the community and want to help the kids and try to say yes when peoplec all or write us about sponsorships.”
While Keys likes to help the community, the community likes to help themselves to Fazoli’s vast array of menu items. Plant City resident Brad Yocom stopped in for lunch to satisfy a spaghetti craving. He ordered the baked spaghetti with a side salad, breadsticks and a soda.
“I got the lunch special and it was $8.02 including tax, which was a little more because I got the baked spaghetti because I like that baked cheese on top,” he said. “It’s the best spaghetti in town and the price can’t be beat, you can’t go to another fast food restaurant and spend less.”
Keys encouraged residents to follow his social media presence at Fazoli’s Plant City on Facebook. “We want everyone to like us and follow us and check in when you get to our store,” he said. “When you do, you’re entitled to a free brownie or cookie.”
Fazoli’s is open Monday – Saturday 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.
So here’s to Rodney Keys and Fazoli’s, raising a toast to two years of culinary excellence and community service with countless more to come. Buon anniversario, Fazoli’s!