Westport, Connecticut – A legendary Connecticut pizza brand is expanding once again. Frank Pepe’s Pizza Napoletana has announced plans to open a new restaurant in Westport next summer, marking another milestone in the company’s century-long history.
The new location will open at 361 Post Road West in the White Birch Center, taking over the former space of The Naan. Construction is expected to begin in early 2026, with doors scheduled to open in summer 2026.
A Major Addition to Westport’s Dining Scene
The Westport restaurant will become Frank Pepe’s ninth location in Connecticut and the 18th location nationwide, further strengthening the brand’s footprint across the Northeast and beyond. Known for its coal-fired, New Haven–style apizza, the restaurant has developed a devoted following that often draws long lines at its existing locations.
Local residents say the new opening could attract increased foot traffic to the Post Road corridor and add to Westport’s already competitive dining landscape.
“I think it’s definitely going to bring a lot more business to Westport just because it’s so popular,” said Emma Asiel ’26, a student at Staples High School.
Details of the New Restaurant
According to company plans, the Westport Frank Pepe’s will span 3,529 square feet and include approximately 90 dine-in seats, along with a designated take-out area. The interior design will draw inspiration from the brand’s original New Haven location, reflecting the classic aesthetic that longtime fans associate with Pepe’s.
For many residents, the new location means no longer needing to travel to nearby towns to enjoy one of Connecticut’s most well-known pizzas.
“Me and my family go there a lot, so it will be nice to have a location that’s closer to us,” said Dylan Deren ’28.
A Century-Old Connecticut Institution
Founded in New Haven, Frank Pepe’s Pizza Napoletana recently celebrated its 100th anniversary, a rare milestone in the restaurant industry. Despite its expansion, the company remains family-owned and operated, preserving traditions that date back generations.
The pizzeria has received national and international recognition over the years. Among its many honors, The Guardian famously named Frank Pepe’s the “Best Pizza on Earth” in 2009, cementing its reputation far beyond Connecticut.
With new locations continuing to open, the company has maintained its focus on consistency, quality ingredients, and traditional coal-fired baking methods that define New Haven-style pizza.
Impact on Local Competition
As Frank Pepe’s prepares to enter Westport, some residents are curious about how the new restaurant could influence competition with nearby towns such as Fairfield and Norwalk, which already host popular pizza destinations.
“I wonder how that’s going to bring competition between us and Fairfield, but I definitely look forward to trying it,” Asiel added.
Westport’s restaurant scene is already known for its diversity, ranging from upscale dining to casual favorites. The arrival of a well-established brand like Frank Pepe’s could further elevate the town’s reputation as a regional dining destination.
Growing Excitement Among Students and Families
Interest in the upcoming opening appears especially strong among local students and families familiar with the brand. Staples High School students, many of whom have visited Pepe’s locations in other towns, expressed enthusiasm about having a nearby option.
“I think it’s pretty cool, it’s probably the best pizza in my opinion,” said Oscar Willis ’28.
The convenience of a local Frank Pepe’s may also make it a popular gathering spot for families, school groups, and weekend diners once it opens.
Construction Timeline and What Comes Next
While the restaurant is still more than a year away from opening, early 2026 construction will transform the former Naan space into a coal-fired pizzeria built to Pepe’s specifications. Additional details about hiring, menu offerings, and opening events are expected to be announced closer to launch.
For now, anticipation continues to build as Westport prepares to welcome one of Connecticut’s most iconic food brands.
Conclusion
With its planned summer 2026 opening, Frank Pepe’s Pizza Napoletana is set to become a significant new fixture in Westport. Combining a century-old legacy with strong local enthusiasm, the new restaurant is expected to draw both longtime fans and first-time visitors eager to experience one of the state’s most celebrated pizzas closer to home.
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