FRESCO by Ferraro - November 2025

SAVOR THE SEASON

Welcome to the November Edition of Fresco by Ferraro!

As the holiday rush kicks in, pizza shops and Italian restaurants are preparing for one of the busiest and most profitable moments of the year. This month, we’re highlighting catering and how operators can turn seasonal gatherings into steady revenue.

Our Customer Spotlight features Mama Theresa’s of East Meadow, NY, a familyrun favorite since 1984. With more than four decades of service, they show how quality ingredients, exceptional hospitality, and a true community focus build loyalty that lasts.

In our Industry Insights piece, “How the Holiday Stretch is Shaping Up for Pizza and Italian Operators,” we look at what restaurants can expect as November unfolds, from shifting customer habits to timely opportunities.

This month’s trend feature, “Beyond the Menu: Holiday Catering Essentials that Make the Meal Shine,” dives into the details that elevate catering offerings, from smart packaging to add-ons that boost ticket averages.

From real-world inspiration to practical strategies, this issue is designed to help Ferraro operators enter the season with confidence and creative momentum. Our table is yours. Here’s to a successful and profitable November.

Cheers!

The Ferraro Family

November 2025

HOLIDAY CATERING MUST-HAVES

Holiday catering success starts long before the food leaves the kitchen.

Page 4

RECIPE: BAKED RIGATONI

A crowd-pleasing holiday dish that travels well.

Page 5

CUSTOMER SPOTLIGHT

Take a step inside Mama Theresa's on Long Island, NY.

Page 6

FEATURED ITEMS

A few of our favorite items for the season.

Page 8

NOVEMBER INDUSTRY INSIGHTS:

How the Holiday Stretch Is Shaping Up for Pizza & Italian Operators

Page 10

Holiday Catering Must-Haves That Make Your Food Stand Out

More Than What’s on the Menu

Holiday catering success starts long before the food leaves the kitchen. Trays, utensils, packaging, and presentation shape the entire experience. With the right supplies, operators deliver smoother setups, stronger first impressions, and more repeat orders.

Trays That Travel Well

Choose trays that keep food hot, intact, and appealing on arrival. Top picks:

• Heavy aluminum trays with clear dome lids

• Compostable pans for ecofocused clients

• Split trays to serve pasta and protein together

Pro tip: Choose trays that are slightly deeper to prevent sauce overflow during transport.

Small Essentials That Matter

Every order should arrive ready to serve. Include tongs, spoons, spatulas, and sturdy lids. Offer optional upgrades like bamboo utensil kits for corporate events. Small touches make the difference between a good delivery and a great one.

Eco-Friendly Touches

Sustainable packaging is a priority for many customers.

Great options include plant-based cutlery, kraft deli containers, and recyclable trays paired with biodegradable utensils. These choices elevate presentation and reinforce your commitment to quality.

Branding That Travels

A catering order is a mobile billboard for your restaurant. Dress it up with branded stickers, labels, or festive ribbon. Slip in a thankyou card or add a QR code that links directly to your catering menu or reviews.

Keep It Organized

Create systems that keep your delivery smooth and consistent.

• Use color-coded labels to identify dietary types

• Keep thermal bags and stackable crates for hot and cold separation

• Add a simple driver checklist to ensure nothing gets left behind

Build a small “catering kit” for each order with utensils, napkins, gloves, labels, and a thank-you card.

Holiday Finishing Touches

A few festive extras transform a standard delivery into a memorable

experience. Rosemary sprigs tied to tray handles, foil-wrapped chocolates, or seasonal napkins add instant charm that customers remember.

Holiday Catering Checklist

Serving & Transport: Aluminum trays, dome lids, split pans, thermal bags, crates

9 Utensils : Tongs, spoons, bamboo or compostable cutlery, portion cups, napkins

9 Organization : Color-coded stickers, driver checklists, branded labels

9 Branding & Extras : Stickers, ribbon, cards, small decor items

9 Backup Supplies : Extra lids, utensils, fuel cans, complete serving kits

Great food earns attention. Great presentation earns loyalty. This season, pair your recipes with the right supplies and thoughtful details to create catering experiences that stand out on every table and bring customers back long after the holidays.

Baked Rigatoni with Creamy Tomato Parmesan

Sauce

A crowd-pleasing holiday dish that travels well.

Prep Time

Cook Time

Servings

15 mins 25 - 30 mins 1 Half Tray

Ingredients

• 2 lb rigatoni

Ferraro# 2503017

• 1 qt marinara sauce

Ferraro# 1200061

• 1.5 cups heavy cream Ferraro# 0960956

• 1 cup grated Parmesan Ferraro# 0800096

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella Ferraro# 0110248

• 1 cup ricotta Ferraro# 0900037

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 small onion, finely diced

• 3 tbsp olive oil

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• Fresh basil for garnish

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta

Boil rigatoni in salted water until slightly under al dente. Drain and set aside. This prevents overcooking during baking and transport.

2. Build the Sauce

Heat olive oil in a saucepan. Add onions and cook until translucent. Stir in garlic. Add marinara and heavy cream, simmering until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper.

3. Combine and Layer

In a mixing bowl, toss the rigatoni with the creamy tomato sauce. In your catering pan, layer half the pasta, then dollops of ricotta and a sprinkle of Parmesan. Repeat with the remaining pasta. Top with mozzarella.

4. Bake

Bake at 375 degrees for 25 to 30 minutes or until the top is golden and the edges bubble.

5. Finish and Serve

Let it rest for 10 minutes before covering. This keeps the pasta intact during transport. Garnish with fresh basil before sealing the tray.

CUSTOMER SPOTLIGHT

Mama Theresa’s

Long Island, New York

Interviewed: Michelle Rampi

A

Family Legacy Since 1984

Mama Theresa’s has been a community favorite for more than four decades. The restaurant began in 1984 and quickly built a loyal following

for its warm hospitality and comforting Italian dishes.

Michelle Rampi grew up in the business, working alongside her father from the age of twelve. Today she proudly runs the East

Meadow location, continuing the values and consistency that define the brand while the family also operates a second location in Garden City Park.

What Guests Love Most

The menu is filled with beloved classics, but a few dishes are true standouts.

Rigatoni Fiorentina remains a go to favorite among regulars. Chicken Valdostana delivers layers of rich flavor.

Sweet Chili Chicken Pizza adds a modern twist that has developed its own loyal fan base.

What Sets Them Apart

Hospitality is the heart of Mama Theresa’s. The team prides itself on creating an experience that feels welcoming and familiar. Quality ingredients and thoughtful preparation ensure every dish meets their high standards. The combination of consistency, warmth, and great food helps the restaurant stand out in a highly competitive market.

Why They Choose Ferraro Foods

Ferraro Foods provides the support and product quality

they rely on daily. The partnership helps the team maintain the level of excellence their customers expect.

Advice for Fellow Operators

Michelle keeps it simple. Work with partners who support your goals and help you deliver the best possible product. Ferraro Foods has been that partner for them.

Community Commitment

Giving back is part of the Mama Theresa’s mission. The restaurant supports local schools and organizations, helping strengthen the neighborhoods that have supported them for more than forty years.

FINALMENTE GNOCCHI

CRAFTED IN ITALY WITH PURE, SIMPLE INGREDIENTS.

AUTHENTIC POTATO GNOCCHI

Made in Italy using 100% fresh potatoes, our gnocchi honor the timeless recipe passed down through generations. The potatoes are steam-cooked with their skins on to lock in natural flavor, then peeled, mashed, and combined with just four ingredients: fresh potatoes, flour, eggs, and salt.

• No additives, preservatives, or colorants – just real ingredients.

• IQF frozen for convenience and quality.

• Cooks in only 90 seconds from frozen in boiling water.

100% Fresh Potato Gnocchi

Ferraro# 2530255 | 2/32 oz

FINALMENTE STUFFED PASTAS

AUTHENTIC FLAVOR & HANDCRAFTED QUALITY.

ELEVATE EVERY BITE WITH ARTISAN RAVIOLI

FINALMENTE STUFFED PASTAS FINALMENTE GOURMET RAVIOLI

Stuffed Shells 2.75 oz

Generous pasta shells filled with creamy, seasoned ricotta, perfect for plated entrées.

Ferraro# 4100812 | 2/5 lb

Stuffed Shells 2 oz

A slightly smaller version, ideal for buffets, banquets, or combo plates.

Ferraro# 4100813 | 2/5 lb

Cheese Manicotti 2.75 oz

Tender manicotti tubes packed with rich ricotta and mozzarella, a timeless favorite.

Ferraro# 4100815 | 2/5 lb

Jumbo Round Cheese Ravioli

Oversized, pillowy ravioli with a luscious ricotta filling that turns any plate into comfort food.

Ferraro# 4100810 | 2/5 lb

Crafted with an exceptionally thin shell to let the premium, rough-cut fillings shine.

• Higher fill-to-dough ratio for more flavor

• Made with premium, neverdehydrated ingredients

• Authentic Italian texture and taste

Striped Lobster Ravioli

Ferraro# 4101257 | 2/2.5 lb

Maine Lobster Ravioli

Ferraro# 4101253 | 2/2.5 lb

Saffron Lobster Ravioli

Ferraro# 4101254 | 2/2.5 lb

Portabello Ravioli

Ferraro# 4101264 | 2/2.5 lb

November 2025 | How the Holiday Stretch Is Shaping Up for Pizza & Italian Operators

As 2025 draws toward year-end, pizza and Italian restaurant operators are navigating a dynamic landscape—where familiar holiday-tailwinds meet evolving consumer behaviours and operational challenges. Below is a snapshot of how things are tracking, followed by key implications for operators heading into the big catering and group-dining months.

Why Holiday & Catering Demand Should Still Be Strong

1. Group and gathering occasions: November and December remain peak months for holiday parties, office gatherings, family dinners, a natural fit for shareable formats (pizza, pasta, platters) and catering bundles.

2. Value and comfort-driven dining: With macro-pressures still present (labor, food-cost inflation, tighter consumer budgets), operators who deliver perceived value and comfort (classic Italian + crowd-pleasers) are well positioned.

3. Convenience & pre-ordering: The data shows consumers continue to value “food-service over frozen” options, so restaurants that lean into online ordering, catering promo bundles, and Ready-to-go holiday offerings can capture higher share.

Strategic Moves for Operators to Capitalize

• Pre-sell holiday catering bundles now: Think corporate packages, family-style trays, custom party

platters. Start promoting early (email, social) to lock in orders ahead of the rush.

• Highlight shareable menu upgrades: Add-ons like premium cheeses, unique pasta sides, brunch-style parlor offerings (for holiday brunch gatherings) create higher average checks while staying within the Italian/pizza identity.

• Streamline operations for the rush: With catering volume rising, kitchens must be prepared—prepped ingredients, efficient workflows, clear packaging & pickup routines will reduce last-minute stress.

• Leverage online ordering, bundling, and loyalty: Encourage larger orders via online channels, bundle items (pizza + pasta + dessert), and consider loyalty promotions that drive repeat visits post-holiday.

• Maintain margin awareness: Food and labor costs remain high;

operators should focus on mix management (premium vs baseline items), reduce waste, and ensure catering operations don’t erode margin.

Looking Ahead: Post-Holiday Carryover Into 2026

Heading into 2026, the themes that will matter: consistency, quality, convenience. Operators who built momentum through the holiday stretch—via strong catering execution and customer experience—are likely to carry that strength into the new year. Given the forecasted growth in the broader market (especially delivery/ online and alternative formats), pizza and Italian operators who lean into these trends are in a good spot.

For the holiday period, think of it not just as a revenue lift—but as an opportunity to reinforce your brand promise with your guests: warm, shareable, customizable Italian-style comfort that brings people together.

Holiday Season Data dashboard

Pizza & Italian Restaurant Industry Snapshot | November 2025

MARKET OVERVIEW

U.S. pizza-restaurant projected revenue in 2024

global pizza market projected-growth

SEASONAL SALES TRENDS

average sales lift for Italian concepts during Nov-Dec

operators expect higher catering revenue vs. 2024

OPERATIONAL INSIGHTS

of pizza revenue = delivery & takeout

plan to use more preprepped or frozen premium ingredients to handle holiday volume

U.S. frozen-pizza sales in 2024 (+6 % YoY)

of holiday catering orders are placed by December

of independent operators cite labor efficiency as their top year-end priority

WHAT IT MEANS FOR OPERATORS

Plan early - Lock in pre-orders before December 1

Bundle smart - Pizza + pasta + dessert packages raise ticket size

Keep quality consistent - Use frozen/fresh hybrid prep for speed

Promote visually - Appetizing photos = faster catering conversions

Our ready-made Italian dessert collection has you covered from morning to midnight . From breakfast bites to after-dinner indulgences, and everything in between, Bindi brings you the best quality since 1946.

Tiramisu

Glass Cup | 12 Count

Sponge cake soaked in espresso, topped with mascarpone cream and dusted with cocoa powder

Ferraro# 4401010

Gelato

Bomba | 20 Count

Vanilla and chocolate gelato with a cherry and sliced almonds covered in cinnamon, finished with a chocolate coating

Ferraro# 4400662

Gluten Free

Eclair

Coffee | 14 Count

FEATURED ITEMS

Plastic Cup | 12 Count

Coffee and Zabaione cream on a layer of sponge cake soaked in espresso, dusted with cocoa powder.

Ferraro# 4400658

Spumoni Bomba | 20 Count

Strawberry, pistachio and chocolate gelato all coated with chocolate and drizzled with white chocolate.

Ferraro# 4400608

Gluten Free

Filled with coffee cream and decorated with a coffee glaze.

Ferraro# 4400512

Paris-Brest | 14 Count

Individual Log | 10 Cut

Traditional tiramisù made with espresso soaked lady fingers and mascarpone cream, dusted with cocoa powder.

Ferraro# 4400812

Ripieni

Peach | 12 Count

Peach sorbetto served in the natural fruit shell.

Ferraro# 4400673

Gluten Free

Filled with a luscious hazelnut cream, decorated with almonds, and powdered sugar.

Ferraro# 4400513

Tray | 2 Count

Layers of espresso drenched ladyfingers separated by mascarpone cream and dusted with cocoa powder.

Ferraro# 4400653

Mango | 12 Count

Mango sorbetto served in the natural shell.

Ferraro# 4400667

Gluten Free

Authentic Flavor

PERFECTLY CRAFTED

Discover the unbeatable taste and quality of Ferraro Foods Exclusive Brand Meatballs. With a wide variety of sizes to fit any menu, our meatballs are available in both all-beef and beef-and-pork options to satisfy every craving Perfectly crafted for consistent flavor and texture, they’re the ideal addition to your pizzeria, restaurant, or foodservice operation Whether you're serving them in pasta, on a sub, or as an appetizer, our meatballs deliver the authentic, homemade taste your customers will love. Quality, versatility, and convenience – all in one bite!