As the aroma of freshly baked pizza drifts through the air on Halsted Street, Proper Pizza invites you to step into a world where tradition and creativity converge to create one of the most unique pizzerias in the city of Chicago. Located in the heart of Chicago’s most vibrant neighborhood, Proper Pizza in Lincoln Park is different from any of the pizza shops you may have visited in the past.
Meet Panarit Kelmendi and Neriton “Toni” Berbatovci, the two charismatic owner-operators of Proper Pizza. Two entrepreneurs whose paths crossed when they first arrived to the United States as war refugees approximately 25 years ago. They themselves will tell you, running a pizzeria franchise in Chicago is no easy feat and requires an arduous effort in the beginning.
Proper Pizza’s origins date back to 2002 in Prishtina, the capital of Kosovo. The business model was simple yet effective, a single take-out and delivery location in the heart of Prishtina, equipped with three workers handling deliveries exclusively on motorbikes. With a neurotic emphasis on freshly sourced and unique ingredients and a peculiar brand design that is original and memorable, Proper Pizza has evolved into a global success story. Today, 21 years later, this family-owned franchise boasts locations throughout Kosovo as well as in Albania, Austria, New Zealand, Australia and now the United States.
The US restaurant market, particularly pizzerias face steep competition given the over-saturation of various concepts. According to the National Restaurant Association, approximately 50% of restaurant owners in the United States expect less profitability in 2023. Today, operators running on thin margins are facing an economic environment and being challenged with a trifecta of higher labor costs, food costs and energy costs.
Co-owner Toni reflects on the inception of the idea and the hurdles they encountered in the early days. “Our journey started with a dream of bringing a taste of Kosova to our community,” he shares. “But turning that dream into a reality was no cakewalk. We faced challenges that tested our determination and commitment.”
With all the evident challenges, there is however a break in the clouds. According to Cristin O’Hara, Head of the Restaurant Group at Bank of America, she is hopeful about 2023 and sees better opportunities for operators than what we saw in 2022. Morgan Stanley analysts believe that US chain restaurants will grow by 1.4%, first time since 2016 that forecast has been above 1%.
Proper Pizza’s menu is a true treasure trove for pizza enthusiasts, boasting an impressive array of 20 distinct pizza options that cater to a diverse range of tastes and preferences. From classic and time-honored selections to inventive, gourmet creations, there’s a pizza to satisfy every craving.
One standout feature at Proper Pizza is their colossal 24-inch party pizza, perfect for gatherings and celebrations. This super-sized pizza is a feast for the eyes and the appetite, offering a generous slice of heaven that can easily feed a crowd. With the ability to customize this giant pizza with your favorite toppings, it’s an excellent choice for family reunions, office parties, or any special occasion that calls for a delectable centerpiece. Proper Pizza’s dedication to variety and quality, evident in their extensive pizza offerings and their party-sized creation, truly sets them apart as a go-to destination for pizza lovers seeking an unforgettable dining experience in Chicago.
