While Wheeling continues to expand and be on the uprise in new business, a new restaurant rolls in, bringing something fresh and exciting- literally. New to Wheeling, but not new to the taste buds of Wheeling locals, Fabio’s Pizza. Fabio’s is the latest addition to downtown’s rapid onset of food, serving up slices of Almost Heaven, with a sprinkle of family tradition.
Fabio’s isn’t like any other pizzeria. After years of successful business in St. Clairsville, the family-owned and operated business moved to Wheeling. After years of planning and construction, the store was ready to move and take the next step in its story.
Marianne Cracolici is a family member and operator of the store, and took the time to explain the story of the renaming of the restaurant and how it has changed throughout the years.
“Fabio’s is actually named after my little brother Fabio. Our family’s original restaurant, formally operated as Scotto’s when we were in the mall, was actually a small franchise that had unfortunately gone out of business. So our family decided to revamp what we had and put our own spin on things, and that’s how Fabio’s Pizza was established,” said Cracolici.
Walking into Fabio’s, you aren’t just greeted with the warm and inviting aroma of pizza, but the warmth of community and a dash of nostalgia. From the people who grew up in Wheeling to the people who grew up in St. Clairsville, one thing that sticks with both towns is the authenticity of Fabio’s Pizza.
Adeline Schimnoski is a senior here at Wheeling Park High School and a lover of Fabio’s Pizza.
“I like their stuff because there’s no other pizza place around here that states like that, and I feel like it’s homemade,” said Schimnoski.
Mr. Beltrondo is a history teacher here at WPHS, and helped delve into why he likes Fabios. Mr. Beltrondo worked at the AT&T store at the mall, so he was a constant customer.
“I like that they have tons of different options, and the fact that you can buy it by the slice is pretty amazing,” said Beltrondo.
The reputation isn’t the only thing that has stayed constant, their menu has barely budged from its original glory.
“The restaurant industry is constantly changing, and there is always a new trend. We really try to keep things as old school as possible – if it’s not broke, don’t fix it. That doesn’t mean that we’re not adding things to our menu, but we won’t be drastically changing anything that made us great,” said Cracolici.
Fabio’s isn’t done yet, however. They plan to continue expanding their storefront and making it the best version yet.
“Even though the restaurant is open, the building itself is still under construction. In time, we plan to finish sometime next year with adding the upper floor windows, expanding our separate bar area with an additional menu and a rentable event space upstairs for parties and gatherings,” said Cracoli.
“I’ve already been two or three times. And you know, looking forward to going more,” said Beltrondo.
While Fabio’s may be a family-owned and operated business, no matter the family their staff comes from, it’s undeniable that they are fantastic at their job.
“The staff we have at Fabio‘s is absolutely phenomenal. And although we may not all be family by blood but we are such a tight-knit group, we’re definitely all family. There are so many memories we’ve made together through the years, so it’s hard to narrow down just a few,” said Cracoli.
So, as you’re driving through Wheeling, make sure you take a pit stop and try some of Fabio’s Pizza!
