Peoria Times - 10.7.2021

Page 12

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Peoria Times

BUSINESS

October 7, 2021

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Ray’s Pizza named restaurant of the month

BY LAUREN SERRATO Peoria Times Staff Writer

Locally owned and operated, Ray’s Pizza has served the community since 2003. Now, the New York-style pizzeria has been named Peoria’s restaurant of the month. Ray’s Pizza has become a staple in the Willow District, as the restaurant continues to gain new customers and serve its regulars for nearly 20 years. “It is such an honor. We take pride in everything that we do here, and it’s with such joy that our awesome community has chosen us to represent our city,” said Ari Kasapi, owner of Ray’s Pizza. “Being a part of the community is my favorite. It makes me so proud that I can give back to my neighborhood. I have met so many great people and built so many friendships that will hopefully last a lifetime.” While the growth of his pizzeria has been one of the highlights of his journey of owning a business, Kasapi said being a part of the Peoria community is at the top of his list. “It has been great. We started Ray’s Pizza back in 2003 and couldn’t be happier with the success it has brought

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over the years. COVID was a hard time for everyone, but I am so thankful for the love and support we have gained from this neighborhood,” he said. Ray’s Pizza serves a variety of fare, including pasta, wings, pizza, calzones, hoagie sandwiches, desserts and more. Aside from the quality food, Kasapi said it’s the customer service and the environment he and his team have developed that keep customers happy. “At Ray’s Pizza, we do our best to go above and beyond to make sure that our guests are treated not only like a friend but like family. A place where we call you by your name and make your food with love. We truly believe our customers deserve the best quality and service,” he said. Additionally, Kasapi said he follows a business strategy his father taught him at a young age. “My dad once told me that a restaurant will always succeed with these three things: quality ingredients and food, quality service that makes people feel good, and reasonable prices that people can afford,” he said. As Peoria continues to grow at a rate of about 2% annually and its population has increased by 19%, totaling 183,357 people, Ray’s Pizza has grown right along with it. “Over the years we have added a few extra things to the menu. We are not on social media, but word of mouth travels fast and has brought in a lot of new customers from all over the Valley, and with more customers comes more Siblings Valon, Mergime and Arian Kasapi have owned Ray’s Pizza in Peoria for 18 team members. When we first opened, years. (Photo courtesy of Ray’s Pizza) we only had a handful of workers, and today I currently have 13. Truly amazing to see the growth over the years. I Deer Valley Road. Kasapi said he wel- and leave you with a full stomach. Give have such an amazing team that works comes everyone to his restaurant and us a shot; you won’t be disappointed,” he said. so great together. I wouldn’t be where I guarantees a quality meal. For more information, visit “Good day? Bad day? Come to am without them,” Kasapi said. Ray’s Pizza is located at 8385 W. Ray’s. We will greet you with a smile rayspizzapeoria.com.


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