Tuesday, September 9, 2008

Background Information


Zebu Forno is a European café, located on Broad Street in Red Bank, New Jersey. Known for its outstanding European specialties, Zebu is at the heart of the town, centrally located and accessible to all. Not only is it cherished by some of Red Bank’s most frequent patrons, it also provides a new and fresh experience for those that have never seen its environment and smelled its aroma.

The café was co-founded in 2001 by Andrew Gennusa, his brother Jason, and a third partner. Mr. Gennusa later obtained the interests of both partners, and currently owns the Red Bank store. The location was originally a 1,500-square-foot storefront. In 2003, however, it was expanded into a 3,000-square-foot space, after an adjacent store closed. Since then, the store has grown and flourished into a wonderful restaurant with delicious food. The relaxing atmosphere only adds to its popularity (Welcome…).

Zebu specializes in European baked goods, sandwiches, and coffee. The store bakes fresh bread, bagels, muffins, and pastries daily. The various loaves and baguettes are perfect choices for sandwiches, and the croissants, turnovers, scones, and cookies make the ideal snack. Pizza is an all-time favorite, and the thin-crust offered is truly one-of-a-kind. The various paninis, wraps, and sandwiches provide tasty options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Gelato and coffee are town favorites, supplying some of the most unique flavors and styles. Other Zebu items include soup, bruschetta, quiche, salad, French toast, fresh fruit, packaged cakes and treats, and Boylans soda (Welcome…).

The ambiance is unlike any other. Spacious rooms and comfortable chairs make the store an excellent place to unwind and rest. Outdoor seating and high-top tables add to the diverse atmosphere. Flat-screen televisions, satellite radio, and free Wi-Fi also provide for a fun and easy-going experience. The store features original murals created by Gregg Hinlicky, each portraying famous artists. Additionally, the ovens are strategically located in the front windows of the store, giving passersby a special look into the Zebu world (Welcome…).

Over the past two years, Zebu Forno has begun franchising. The goal is to create “a high quality, regional brand” of Zebu items through new location openings. A second store was opened in Holmdel, New Jersey in 2007. This 3,000-square-foot store will act as a prototype for future locations in shopping centers. A third store opened in Hoboken, New Jersey in 2008. This store is 2,500-square-feet, making it the smallest of the three stores (Welcome…).

Each location has managed to grow and become a distinct store within the Zebu family, while still maintaining the unique style and atmosphere. More stores will most likely begin to open in New Jersey, and eventually in the whole Tri-State Area. Whatever the location, Zebu Forno is sure to become a fast favorite of each community it is able to join.


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