The idea for Two Cities Pizza Company came about when myself (Zach Greves) and my life ling friend (Sean Spurlock) were in our college years. Dating back to high school, we came up with ideas and concepts that would allow us to partner together in business. Through all the ideating, we found ourselves back at the table, literally. We both absolutely love sharing meals with people. Restaurants were a natural fit for our desire to facilitate an experience where folks can break bread and have fun. Restaurants are not easy though, and you really have to be different and excellent to stand out. Fast forward to a college break where we traveled up to Chicago through the night via bus. Naturally, we found ourselves eating our way through Chicago’s iconic food scene. Deep dish began the topic of our conversation. Rather, deep dish became one of the focal points of a friendly debate. Sean went to college in New York, so he was fresh off New York thin crust, and I reminded him that deep dish is of course a superior pie. Sean disagreed with my assertion and made his points. Don’t get me wrong, we both love each style, but that debate sparked an idea. New York style thin crust and Chicago style deep dish under one roof, where people can settle the debate and bridge the gap between these two legendary cities and the pizza they are so famous for. Two Cities Pizza Company was born, at least in spirit on that trip. About four years later, and shortly after graduation, we established our first Two Cities Pizza Company.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I suppose smooth is a relative term! Anything worth doing is going to be hard, and it will certainly have challenges. Starting a business at 22 years old made us grow up quickly. I believe experience is the best teacher, so in that regard we were fortunate. That does not mean it was easy, far from it actually. I will say the hardest but most rewarding part is building and leading a team. We are nothing without the people we work alongside. Our business, like most, is not a two-man job. We have over 200 teammates that look to us for leadership and continued opportunity. The rewards of hard work on a team far outweigh the struggles. There is not much I love more than seeing people succeed when they strive to improve. I get to see that all the time.
We’ve been impressed with Two Cities Pizza Company, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Two Cities Pizza Company is the New York and Chicago experience under one roof. We established on the premise that you should be able to experience both of these iconic styles of pizza in the same place. Our food is created with New York and Chicago in mind, but so is the atmosphere of the restaurant. When you are at Two Cities, you are transported to the city. If you use the restroom, you’ll have to go to the New York subway station to get there. When you grab a drink on the only rooftop in Suwanee, you’ll grab it from the Chicago “L” train bar. Our award-winning food and decor are designed to create an experience you will not forget.
Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
Being in Suwanee, we benefit from the overwhelming support of the community. Suwanee is proud. We have been so pleased with the encouragement and support. I also love how many cities and towns in greater Atlanta have such a unique vibe. The hard part about Atlanta is of course, the drive time from place to place. That is why I love how many downtowns and cultural centers there are scattered across the city. Everyone has access to a downtown, or multiple, in their area.
Contact Info:
- Website: twocitiespizza.com
- Instagram: twocitiespizza_ga
