An Ohio pizza chain is plotting a comeback years after mostly bowing out of Fairfax County.
Donatos Pizza announced earlier this month that it’s planning an “ambitious” expansion in the D.C. area, starting with restaurants in Reston, Herndon and Ashburn.
Specific locations haven’t been identified yet, but the first one is expected to open by the first quarter of 2026, according to an Aug. 8 press release.
Donatos hopes to add over 20 traditional and “non-traditional” locations in the region over the next two to three years. The chain has also finalized a franchise agreement for two additional sites in the Atlanta area, with the first one opening later this year.
“With every new agreement, we’re strengthening our footprint on these communities while showcasing our commitment to delivering more of what our guests love: more toppings, more flavor, and more deliciousness,” Donatos Pizza Vice President of Development and Franchising Jeff Baldwin said in the release. “Given their strong populations and market growth, Georgia and the DMV will remain target markets for Donatos expansion for some time.”
Based in Columbus, Ohio, Donatos was founded in 1963 by Jim Grote, who was a sophomore student at Ohio State University at the time. Known for its “Edge to Edge” pizza, where toppings cover the entire pie, including the crust, the company currently operates 179 stores nationwide.
It also has partnerships with over 300 businesses that serve its pizzas, including many Red Robin restaurants.
Donatos previously had a presence in the Fairfax area with full restaurants in Fairfax City and the Town of Vienna, but those locations closed, respectively, in 2014 and 2018. Supporters can still satisfy their hankering for a slice at local Red Robin restaurants in Fair Lakes, Chantilly and Seven Corners.
When considering potential franchise locations in Fairfax County, Donatos CEO Kevin King says the company has “several areas in mind” but is particularly focused on places with “strong” residential populations.
“These areas would have a solid neighborhood-retail synergy,” King said. “Areas would ideally include a grocery store anchored shopping centers like Safeway, Harris Teeter, Giants Foods and specialty grocers. There is still plenty of room for more franchise partners with multiple territories still available in Fairfax County.”
Photo via Donatos Pizza/Facebook
