Johnny's Italian Steakhouse eyes expansion in Wisconsin, including Milwaukee - Heart Of America Group

A Des Moines, Iowa-born restaurant company is seeking to grow its footprint in Wisconsin through franchising in markets like Milwaukee and Racine, among other regions in the state.

Johnny’s Italian Steakhouse, which currently boasts a dozen locations including Middleton and Eau Claire, said Tuesday that it’s planning to bring five new locations to the state over the next three years. The company is targeting markets such as Racine, Kenosha, Green Bay, Milwaukee, Janesville and Sheboygan and is on the hunt for franchise operators to bring the restaurant concept there.

Johnny’s Italian Steakhouse — which describes its ambience as “reminiscent of the classic supper clubs of the 40s and 50s,” according to its website — is seeking to award 24 restaurant units by 2020. In Wisconsin, a location in Sun Prairie is set to open in August.

The restaurant serves a variety of sandwiches, appetizers, steaks, salads, beefs, pasta and seafood, among other entrees. The company estimates that locations, on average, generate more than $2.6 million in median annual gross revenue.

“We are beyond excited to expand the Johnny’s brand footprint in Wisconsin,” said Mike Whalen, CEO of Johnny’s Italian Steakhouse in a news release. “Through smart, strategic growth and finding the right franchisees to partner with, we know we will continue to see success and positive results in the area.”

Article Posted By: BizJournals.com – Melanie Lawder

About Heart Of America

Starting with one, 100-seat restaurant in 1978, Heart of America Group has grown to include a portfolio of award-winning owned and operated restaurants, hotels and commercial developments. Noteworthy brands developed and operated by Heart of America Group include the Machine Shed Restaurant, Johnny’s Italian Steakhouse, The Republic on Grand, Hotel Renovo, Wildwood Lodge, Thunder Bay Grille, and The J Bar. We pride ourselves in building long-lasting properties that bring value to the consumer and to the communities in which we build.

Locations

Operations Support Center - Moline
1501 River Drive
Moline, Illinois 61265
P: 309.797.9300
F: 309.797.8700

Operations Support Center - Des Moines
515 E Locust Street, Suite 100
Des Moines, IA 50309