Here are some questions answered by one of Chandler’s newest businesses.

Business: Vero Chicago Pizza.

Owner / manager: Josh Carstens.

Location: 2855 W. Ray Rd Suite 5, north Chandler, in a shopping center anchored by Whole Foods, just east of Loop 101.

Website: Click here.

What we do: We specialize in authentic Chicago-style pizza and Italian cuisine. Our menu features deep-dish pizza, butter crust, thin crust, gluten-free crust, cauliflower crust, and calzones.

We also offer fresh salads, pastas and homemade desserts. We are dedicated to delivering high-quality food and providing a warm, family-friendly dining experience.

Why you chose to work in your field: I have always been passionate about food and creating memorable dining experiences. Food has a unique way of bringing people together, and I wanted to create a place where families and friends could gather to enjoy quality meals made with care.

Pies like this one are made by the team at Vero’s Chicago Pizza’s north Chandler location. The chain recently added the north Chandler location, located in the Whole Foods shopping center on the south side of Ray Road, just east of Loop 101.

Courtesy of Vero’s Chicago-North Chandler

When and why I chose to start my business: This journey began in 2020 when we opened the first Vero Chicago Pizza location in San Tan Valley. Our business is part of a larger group of franchise restaurants owned by the Scarnato family and local owners.

Currently, there are eight Vero Chicago Pizza locations across the Valley. Myself, along with two other families, own and operate the San Tan Valley and north Chandler locations.

The overwhelming community support motivated us to continue expanding while maintaining our roots as a family-owned business.

What I like most about what I do: I love connecting with people and seeing families come together over a meal. It’s incredibly rewarding to hear how much customers enjoy our food and to know that we’re creating experiences they’ll remember for years to come.

What is something many people don’t know about you? Our restaurants are truly local and family-owned. While Vero Chicago Pizza is part of a franchise, the owners of each location, including myself, live and work in the Valley. We are deeply committed to serving our community because we are a part of it.

How did you get into your career? It started with a love for food and a desire to create something that could be shared with others. Over the years, I’ve worked hard to learn every aspect of running a restaurant, from crafting recipes to building a strong team and fostering a welcoming atmosphere for guests.

What originally brought you to the Valley? The beauty of the desert, the warmth of the people, and the opportunities to build a life for my family brought me to the Valley. It’s been the perfect place to grow roots and start our family business.

One thing I want my clients/neighbors to know about me: We’re not just business owners; we’re your neighbors. As a family-owned business, we genuinely care about our community and strive to make a positive impact. Every pizza we serve represents our commitment to quality and connection.

What I am thankful for: I’m thankful for my family, my business partners, and the incredible support we’ve received from the community. Their encouragement has been the driving force behind our success and growth.

People who inspired me (and how): My family has been my biggest source of inspiration. Their unwavering support and hard work keep me motivated every day. I’m also inspired by other restaurateurs who’ve built businesses that bring people together and leave a lasting impact on their communities.

How are you involved in the local community? We host events, support local schools and organizations, and partner with community initiatives. We believe in giving back and strengthening the ties that make this area special.

What advice would you give to people entering your field? Be prepared to work hard, stay adaptable, and focus on building relationships. The restaurant industry requires dedication and a genuine passion for serving others, but the rewards of connecting with your community make it all worthwhile.

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