Franco Metro's Dinner Plate: Community & Affordability

Overview

Franco Metro, a beloved family-run Italian restaurant, has served homemade pasta, pizza, and cherished memories to the Fort Lee community for over 50 years. Founded in 1972, the restaurant embodies a commitment to quality and community that has spanned generations. General Manager Gene Bazzillani, who joined the family business in 2006, brings years of experience in media, which has helped Franco Metro grow. Through Gene’s insights, we will explore how Franco Metros has navigated the current economic landscape. 

Rising Costs in the Restaurant Industry

In today’s economy, inflation affects every business, and Franco Metro is no exception. The price of essential ingredients, especially meat, has soared—costs usually absorbed by raising menu prices or reducing portions. However, Gene is dedicated to maintaining the restaurant's original pricing structure and portion sizes, driven by loyalty to the customers who have supported Franco Metro through the years.

Gene notes that Franco Metro’s commitment to quality ingredients remains unwavering. For example, the restaurant could save by switching from premium, organic chicken, but that would mean compromising the standards that customers have come to expect. Even though food costs for the restaurant are nearly 40% of its budget, significantly higher than for fast-food chains, Franco Metro continues to invest in quality over cost-cutting measures.

Competition and Staying True to Core Values

Rather than worrying about local competition or fluctuating market trends, Franco Metro has always focused on what it does best: quality food, exceptional service, and building long-term relationships. From hosting corporate events to catering to school functions, the restaurant has established trust with loyal customers who value its delicious offerings and consistency. This has enabled Franco Metro to cultivate a reputation that extends beyond immediate transactions and fosters recurring business.

Real Estate in a Tight Market

The restaurant’s location on Plaza West Shopping Center offers a unique advantage that many other nearby eateries lack: abundant parking. In a community where space is at a premium, the convenience of accessible parking reduces congestion and enhances the dining experience, particularly during busy weekends. Additionally, Franco Metro benefits from a favorable, long-term lease, providing stability in an increasingly competitive real estate market. With high property costs affecting many Fort Lee businesses, Franco Metro's strategic location helps keep overhead manageable, allowing it to focus resources on quality and service.

Adapting to a New Era of Delivery Services

Like many restaurants today, Franco Metro has embraced delivery as a key part of its business model, combining third-party delivery platforms with an in-house delivery service. By using its vehicles for local orders, Franco Metro offers a more personalized touch while retaining control over delivery quality and reducing the fees that come with third-party services. This approach has allowed the restaurant to expand its reach within the community while maintaining its standards and control over customer experience.

Building Community Connections Through Local Partnerships

Community involvement is part of Franco Metro’s identity. For over five decades, the restaurant has hosted "Dining for Dollar" events, supporting organizations such as Fort Lee Boosters and participating in fundraisers for local schools. Gene emphasizes that the business is always open to giving back, particularly to customers who’ve become like family. These partnerships support the community and strengthen Franco Metro's connection to the Fort Lee community. 

Looking Forward: The Vision for Franco Metro

As a restaurant focused on improving its offerings and customer experience, Gene has yet to make plans to expand its operations. Instead, he wants Franco Metro to stay committed to its founding principles while adapting to modern challenges, ensuring the restaurant’s fixtures in the Fort Lee community for generations.