Saline pizzeria to move into renovated downtown space, expand staff

Nick Wallen has been two things for nearly his entire life: a Saline resident and a part of the pizza business. A graduate of Saline High School and son of a Domino's Pizza district manager, it was perhaps inevitable that he and a friend would open their own pizza restaurant in Saline in 2011. 

 

"One of the big perks about being in Saline is our pretty expansive network here," says Wallen. "We've had great support from the community."

 

Wallen and his partner decided to open a Benito's Pizza after meeting with the owner and his son. The small, regional restaurant has 25 stores throughout Southeast Michigan, and Wallen felt the local brand was a good fit for Saline.

 

He couldn't have been more correct. The Saline Benito's was recognized in their first year for having the largest increase in sales of all Benito's locations. The store's popularity, Wallen says, is a combination of their great food and service, and their involvement with the local school system.

 

With all of their success, Benito's is ready to grow in Saline. A renovation is currently underway on a historic building in Downtown Saline. Similar to the restaurant's current location, the 1,770 sq. ft. storefront will have limited seating, but will focus on delivery and takeout. The new downtown location will allow the Benito's location to expand into curbside pickup and selling pizza by the slice during events. 

 

"The visibility is just awesome," says Wallen. "There aren't that many quick-serve food options downtown. Especially during the events, it'll be great that you can grab something quick and simple here." 

 

Wallen expects the renovations and move to be complete by the end of August. The new location will allow him to expand his staff, adding up to five new employees to his staff of 10.