Frank and Gene Martinefski, owners
Q: How did you get involved in this business?
A: We have been in the pizza business in all phases, from delivery driver to manager for a number of chain restaurants, for more than 25 years. We always had a goal to open our own restaurant so we could be more creative in delivering a higher quality experience and product to our customers.
Q: What distinguishes you from other businesses in your category?
A: Frank’s Place’s unique recipes are the difference. We make all of our delicious menu items right here in our restaurant on a daily basis, from our fresh homemade meatballs to our fresh baked bread and spectacular marinara, alfredo and pizza sauces. All of our ingredients are the freshest and finest money can buy, from our spices to our cheeses, we won’t sacrifice our product just to save a dollar. Some customers have requested that we bottle some of our unique sauces to take home.
Q: What do you like best about your line of work?
A: I think the best thing about working in your own restaurant is the creativity you get in making the menu and then witnessing the reaction on our customers faces as they take their first bite. I also feel that working with the employees and watching them learn how to be customer service-oriented professionals, but still having fun in a family-style restaurant is very rewarding. It is not surprising for children to delight when Frank and his staff are in the kitchen spinning pizza dough above their heads, entertaining and teaching children the fun of making pizzas.
Q: What is your business’ biggest challenge?
A: The food service business is a very competitive industry. To surpass the big chain restaurants, there’s a very fine line between keeping costs down and providing the excellent service and incredible tasting entrees while still offering reasonable prices.
Q: Something people might be surprised to learn about you or your business:
A: Patrons would be surprised to know that Frank’s Place budding entrepreneurial spirit began when we started a childhood business of fish breeding to help the family during difficult financial times. We grew up in a family of six brothers in the early 1960s. From that time, we have never stopped working. Both of us bring the same stellar work ethic to our patrons with a profound understanding of meeting the culinary needs of those who long for a great dinning experience, whether it be at Frank’s Place or delivered to homes.
Profile
Business: Frank’s Place N.Y. Style Pizza
Address: 819 Thornton Parkway, Thornton
Hours: 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Sunday
Founded: 2010
Contact: 303-452-0606,
Employees:10
