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“Our pies are kick-ass. We don’t skimp on quality — we use the absolute best products.”
A bold statement from franchisee Tarun Papneja to match the flavors at the new Pizza Depot in Hicksville.
The restaurant marks the first New York location for the popular Canadian chain, which counts over 60 locations north of the border.
The Long Island spot is now open in the Soni Centre shopping plaza along Route 106/107.
“I’ve always gone to Pizza Depot when I visit Toronto and thought, ‘Wow,’” Papneja told Greater Long Island. “We knew we had to bring it to Hicksville because it’s such a diverse area.”
Pizza Depot has built a following by pairing classic pies with globally inspired flavors.
“We’re both traditional and modern at the same time,” Papneja said. “You can get a calzone or a simple plain or pepperoni pie, but we also have options like butter chicken marsala pizza and mango habanero — one of my favorites.
“Once you try it, you’ll see how it hits every flavor.”
Other specialty pies include Chicken Peri Peri, Thai Supreme and Spicy Veggie Deluxe.
The menu goes beyond pizza, too, with wings, sides and desserts sourced from The Cheesecake Factory.
“When people come in, the first thing they say is, ‘Wow, look at this menu!’” said Papneja’s partner, Nidhi Tandon. “We have a lot of options, and we can adjust the spice level on everything. There’s something for every taste.”
Affordability is also part of the pitch.
“We’ve kept our prices very reasonable,” Papneja said. “You can feed an entire family for between $15 and $20, and we have great combo deals, too.”
He added with a smile: “Just try us once. Take a pie home and see for yourself. I’d like to say we have the best crust on Long Island — what’s the worst that can happen?”
Top: Pizza Depot franchisee Tarun Papneja has put Long Island on the map for the international chain. (Credit: Andrew Rappaport)
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