Zio Gio has opened its inaugural eatery on Veterans Highway (Route 413) in Bristol Township.
The new restaurant concept from Philadelphia-area natives John Marsella and Jim Nasuti offers “consumers a first-of-its-kind option for enjoying authentic Italian street food,” according to the owners. The two men help lead Summerwood Corporation, the largest franchise-owned restaurant company operating company in the Philadelphia region.
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The men hope Zio Gio brings recipes, fresh ingredients and tastes that parallel those of Philadelphia’s Italian Market.
“What makes Zio Gio unique is that it delivers South Philly Style Cheesesteaks, Meatball Sandwiches, Roast Pork, and other delights with never before seen speed, featuring a fast and convenient drive thru,” a company statement said.
Zio Gio’s hours: Sunday-Wednesday, 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM; Thursday-Saturday 11:00 AM to 3:00 AM.
“I grew up around Philadelphia’s Italian Market and nothing was better than South Philly food,” said co–owner John Marsella. “We all crave that food – the authentic flavors and all the memories it evokes – and now you can have it anytime and with the speed and convenience of a drive thru.”
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One of the standout items on the menu is the Zinini, a half-wrap/half Panini sandwich.
“The Zinini was born from the drive-thru concept with the goal to make our menu more eating-on-the-go friendly. It’s easier to eat without dripping all over your car. We also provide conveniences such as fries with fresh basil and other sides in containers that fit right into the cup holder,” Nasuti said.
The owners pledge to give home-spun service while offering many self-serve conveniences.
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“There is an energy radiating from the entire staff as they realize they are on the ground floor of the next big thing,” said Marsella. “With the enthusiasm we’ve seen since the first shovel hit the ground, Jim and I are confident that what we’ve created is not only a fresh and exciting fast casual dining option but one that fills a major void. Zio Gio will continue to hone our service and learn as we open in Levittown, a community that has always been wonderful to us.”
Last month, company officials said the location would employ 25 to 30 people.
The former Taco Bell that sat at the site has since moved to a new location near Bucks County Community College’s Bristol Township campus.
