For over 30 years, Chanello’s Pizza has been serving up its signature slices across Virginia and parts of North Carolina. What began as a single shop near the Norfolk Naval Base has expanded into a 14-location chain known for both its pizza varieties and deep community roots.
Rather than pursuing rapid franchising solely for profit growth, Chanello’s emphasizes regional adaptation and hands-on local ownership of each franchise. “We want our restaurants truly embedded in the neighborhoods they serve,” says company president Juliet Channell.
While offering modern conveniences through online ordering and delivery until 2am, Chanello’s also respects the tradition of bringing people together over shareable meals. “Our roots in community impact and quality foodcraft define our success over 35+ years of growth,” Channell says.
At the moment, you can visit this place only in several locations in Virginia.
- Colonial Heights, Virginia
- Henrico, Virginia
- Hopewell, Virginia
- Midlothian, Virginia
But many people are wondering whether there will be an expansion soon. That is especially the case among those from the West Coast.
Let’s See What’s So Good About This Place
As I already mentioned, they are known for the classics, but they also have some special recipes just to make it less monotonous.
Traditional Pizzas
- Cheese Pizza: The classic base of mozzarella on a rich tomato sauce. Simple, yet beloved.
- Pepperoni Pizza: A standard favorite for many.
- Meat Lover’s Pizza: Packed with pepperoni, sausage, ham, bacon, and ground beef.
Specialty Pizzas
- Supreme Pizza: A loaded option that includes pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, onions, and green peppers, for those who want a bit of everything.
- Hawaiian Pizza: Yes, they also have this one.
- BBQ Chicken Pizza: Drizzled with barbecue sauce, and topped with chicken, onions, and cheese.
- Buffalo Chicken Pizza: For those who like it hot, this pizza comes with spicy buffalo chicken and a blend of cheeses.
Unique Offerings
- E.B.A. (Everything But Anchovies): This pizza is Chanello’s take on the all-in, featuring pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, onions, green peppers, black olives, and extra cheese.
- Bacon Double Cheeseburger Pizza: Combining the flavors of a cheeseburger with the convenience of a pizza slice, this creation includes ground beef, bacon, a mix of cheeses, and a hint of mustard.
It’s Just What’s Missing in the West
Chanello’s offers a straightforward menu with familiar favorites, which may be one of the main reasons why those in the West need it.
In contrast, West Coast pizzerias often focus on niche or gourmet offerings. For instance, Flour & Water in San Francisco is known for its innovative and creative pizza recipes. But not everyone is interested in a “Michelin Star” slice or those experiments with pineapples or various veggies.
These days, it actually became more complicated to get a regular nice pepperoni than some of those unconventional options.
And that’s why Chanello’s would be a real deal there.
