Rotolo’s Craft & Crust is set to make its mark in League City at 4550 W League City Pkwy #110. The franchise’s expansion into League City marks a significant milestone for Chad Calongne, CEO of Beach Pizza Management LLC, who has long held plans to grow the brand’s presence in the Houston area. While the opening of Rotolo’s in Spring in September 2022 was the first Houston-area Craft & Crust location, League City will soon follow as part of a broader plan to have 10 locations open by 2027.
Calongne, who currently owns seven Rotolo’s franchises, shared the challenges and delays encountered along his expansion journey. “I began working on my expansion into Houston in 2018,” he said. “COVID delayed my expansion, but I finally opened Spring in September of 2022.” Though his preference is to own properties and build retail strip centers around his restaurants, Calongne had difficulty finding the right site in League City initially. “League City was a target to be my first location, however I was unable to get the economics of our original site to make sense. I continued to seek opportunities there, and finally found a great location. “
The connection between Calongne and Houston goes beyond business. After evacuating to Tomball during Hurricane Katrina, Calongne’s family experienced the generosity of the Houston community, something he has never forgotten. “Houston has held a special place in my heart for a long time,” he shared. “We experienced the grace of the people in Houston, and in particular the administration at Willow Creek Elementary School. They made my oldest son feel welcome, helped him get up to speed and made him as comfortable as possible. I never forgot this, and I made it my first order of business when I opened to try and show my gratitude. Although it was 18 years later, when I opened in Spring I delivered lunch for the entire staff at the school.”
With three additional stores currently in development, Calongne is driven by a philosophy of community partnership. “My philosophy is to be a great community partner wherever I operate,” he said. “I find it essential to give back to those that support Rotolo’s. Our guests and their community are what make us a success.” As League City anticipates the arrival of Rotolo’s Craft & Crust, locals can expect not just exceptional pizza, but a business owner dedicated to fostering community connections.
Pending permit approval, they are expected to open by March 2025.
