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Italian, with a twist: France’s Zaino to open restaurant in Quebec

January 24, 2023

Italian, with a twist: France’s Zaino to open restaurant in Quebec

Ristorante Pizzeria Zaino, a respected destination Italian restaurant concept based in France, is focusing on Quebec to open its first location outside its homeland.  
Founded on February 4, 2016 on the shores of Lake Geneva, in Evian les Bains, Zaino is the vision of Yannick Gruber, who named the concept after his Italian grandmother, who, with her husband, ran a hotel restaurant in Switzerland. 
Her family recipes are reflected in Zaino’s varied menu, which includes vegan and gluten-free items.
The cuisine is of the highest quality—fresh and flavourful—inspired by the favourite dishes of Northern Italy. From famous pizzas to dishes made with fresh produce, as well as fine meats, cheeses, olive oil and pastas, the menu is delicious and generous, yet simple. 
One of the things that sets the concept apart (and makes it replicable) is that each recipe is designed to be easily prepared, according to precise instructions, in a functional kitchen without the need for a chef.  The idea is to be efficient, putting the focus on fast and attentive service that drives a loyal clientele. 
Although steeped in tradition when it comes to the menu, the restaurants themselves are both contemporary and warm—places for friends and family to gather, relax and share a delicious meal. The interior design combines and industrial look in a modern atmosphere that features colourful and contemporary furniture. This is a place where people want to be. 
There are three Zaino restaurants in France and the plan is to open another in Quebec, with a focus on downtown or the island of Montreal. Ideal spaces are 1,500 to 2,000 sq. ft.
We are thrilled to work with visionary team behind this innovative concept, as Zaino prepares to make its North American debut. For more information, contact the Think Retail team.