MidiCi will join the eight pizza restaurants on Franklin Street.
The California-based pizza chain is to open in the winter under Top of the Hill and across the street from the newly established pizza restaurant Lotsa. In addition to Lotsa, the area is already home to Italian Pizzeria III, Benny Cappella’s, Artisan Pizza Kitchen, Mellow Mushroom, Toppers Pizza, Papa Johns and I Love NY Pizza.
Lotsa Chief Operating Officer Anthony DiGangi said he doesn’t resent the competition, but instead embraces it. He said the business knew about the varying pizza establishments on Franklin Street but still chose to open a location there.
“We’re not really concerned about the competition,” DiGangi said. “Things are going really well for us right now, and we’re excited for basketball season.”
DiGangi said he doesn’t worry about MidiCi’s proximity to Lotsa. He said he believes that they cater to different markets, and Lotsa’s focus on fast service and low prices will continue to draw the crowds.
“Everyone finds their niche, I think you’ll see our price point is better suited for students,” DiGangi said.
DiGangi said Lotsa is unique because of their quick, efficient service and fresh ingredients.
“We’re the only pizza place where you can get a fresh pizza in under two and a half minutes, cooked,” DiGangi said. “Everywhere else just sits there all day. Here, you walk in, and the pizza is cooked and made right in front of you.”
Wilson Rogers, owner of APK, shared similar thoughts about the competition on Franklin Street. Rogers said the local competition wasn't so much a concern as much as the food trucks that come in for special events.
