Fast-casual Italian restaurant opens fifth store

LINCOLNSHIRE, Ill. — Forklift Brands announced the opening of its fifth Go Roma Italian Kitchen in the Chicago area within the past two years.

 

"Go Roma Italian Kitchen combines the service, ambience and hospitality of a full-service restaurant with the convenience of a fast-casual destination," said David Wolfgram, chief executive of Forklift Brands & Boudin Bakery. 

 

According to a news release, Go Roma offers a wide range of fresh Italian dishes, including homemade soups, artisan pizzas, seasonal salads, flatbread sandwiches, pasta and a variety of homemade desserts.  All menu items are less than $9; a separate menu for children is available.

 

Go Roma Italian Kitchen was created by restaurant veterans David Wolfgram, Jeff Drake, Russell Bry and Yorgo Koutsogiorgas, who worked together for years at Chicago-based Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises. 

 

Reminiscent of stylish urban lofts with an industrial look and feel, Go Roma Italian Kitchen restaurants are designed with clean lines, angular architecture, exposed pipes, modern light fixtures, customized lithographs and bold colors.  Comfortable leather booths and flexible seating options are ideal for business lunches, working professionals and families with small children. 

 

Go Roma Italian Kitchen opened its first Chicagoland restaurant in 2004 in Warrenville, Ill.

 

The company plans to double its size within 2007 and add 10 company-owned restaurants annually beginning in 2008.