A Slice of Excitement: Roots Pizza is Coming to Frankfort's Historic Trolley Barn!

Big news, Frankfort! Get ready to welcome a truly exciting addition to our local dining scene. Roots Pizza, a name synonymous with fantastic St. Louis-style pies and a wonderfully unique malted crust, is officially making its way to our beloved historic Trolley Barn. It’s a move that’s got everyone buzzing, and honestly, for good reason – this isn't just another pizza place; it's a culinary experience known for drawing crowds.

For those unfamiliar, Roots Pizza isn't your average pizza joint. They've built quite a reputation, especially for their distinctive St. Louis-style pizza. We’re talking about that special malted crust – thin, crispy, and utterly delicious – often topped with a generous layer of provel cheese. It's a style that sparks debate and delight in equal measure, and now, we get to have a taste right here in Frankfort. Their menu, of course, extends beyond their famous pies, offering a variety of appetizers, salads, sandwiches, and a great selection of drinks to round out the meal. So, whether you're a pizza purist or looking for something different, there's definitely something to tempt your palate.

The chosen spot, the Trolley Barn, holds a special place in Frankfort's history. It’s a landmark building, once home to Francesca's North, and now it’s poised for a vibrant new chapter. This exciting development isn't happening in a vacuum; it's all thanks to Vision Frankfort, the folks who own the Trolley Barn and have a grand plan. Their ambition? To transform our downtown area into nothing less than a premier "foodie destination." And let's be honest, bringing in a caliber of restaurant like Roots Pizza is a huge step in the right direction. Imagine strolling through downtown, popping into the Kidswork Children's Museum (which, by the way, just opened its doors in May!), and then finishing your day with a fantastic meal at Roots. Sounds pretty perfect, right?

So, when can we expect to sink our teeth into these famous pizzas? The current word on the street is a late fall to early winter 2024 opening. While we all love a good countdown, it's worth noting that these things can sometimes shift a little, but the excitement is already palpable. Mayor Keith Ogle couldn't be more thrilled, describing Roots Pizza as a "perfect fit" for Frankfort. He also took a moment to laud Vision Frankfort, acknowledging their dedication and incredible work in bringing such high-quality businesses to our community. It truly speaks volumes when local leadership is so invested and enthusiastic about new ventures.

A little background on our new neighbor: Roots Pizza first burst onto the Chicago culinary scene back in 2011, making its debut in the vibrant Ukrainian Village neighborhood. Since then, it’s been on an impressive growth trajectory, expanding to ten locations. It’s part of the well-respected Fifty/50 Restaurant Group, a testament to their commitment to quality and delicious food. Their proven track record of success in various Chicago neighborhoods certainly bodes well for their Frankfort venture, suggesting they know how to become a beloved local spot.

All in all, the arrival of Roots Pizza in Frankfort’s Trolley Barn is more than just a new restaurant opening; it’s a clear signal of growth, community investment, and a deepening commitment to making our town a truly special place to live, visit, and, of course, eat. We're certainly looking forward to welcoming them with open arms – and empty stomachs!