Celebrating the Holidays w/Rob Greskoviak of Villa D’Carlo
The holiday season in Downtown Kenosha is the cheesiest time of year, and Villa D’Carlo brings the seasoning to life with festive traditions and sauce-some charm. From their piping hot decorations to the way they make every visit feel like a pizza on Earth, owner Rob Greskoviak shares how his restaurant has become a crust-mas classic for generations. So slice, slice, baby, and join us as we deliver the magic of the season at this beloved local gem!
What makes the holiday season in Downtown Kenosha unique for your business?
Rob: At Villa D’Carlo, the holiday season brings a magical touch to our restaurant. Our festive decorations, inspired by traditions dating back to our founding in 1957, create a warm and inviting atmosphere. It’s heartwarming to see families, some spanning multiple generations, bringing their children to admire the displays, making us a cherished part of their holiday traditions.
How does being part of the Downtown Kenosha community enhance your holiday celebrations?
Rob: Downtown Kenosha is a tight-knit community where business owners and loyal customers come together to create a festive atmosphere. This sense of camaraderie, built over decades, elevates the holiday spirit for everyone involved, reminding us of the importance of community and tradition.
What are your favorite local holiday traditions or events in Downtown Kenosha?
Rob: I personally love the holiday tree lighting and the Kemper Center Christmas celebrations. These events capture the magic of the season and draw people together in celebration, much like our family has gathered to make pizzas since the late 1950s.
Do you have any special holiday traditions or themes for your business this year?
Rob: While we don’t have any new traditions or themes planned this year, we love bringing back the decorations and specials our customers have enjoyed in previous years. Our focus remains on maintaining the classic ambiance that has delighted patrons for generations.
What inspired your holiday window displays, products, or services this season?
Rob: Our inspiration stems from tradition. Each year, we incorporate elements from past seasons that resonated with our customers, ensuring a nostalgic and heartwarming experience. This approach reflects our commitment to preserving the legacy of Villa D’Carlo, established by my stepfather, Carl Ruffalo, in 1957.
Are there any new holiday specials or events you’re hosting for the Downtown Kenosha community?
Rob: Unfortunately, not this year, but we’re always exploring ways to enhance our holiday offerings in the future. Our primary goal is to provide a consistent and welcoming environment that our patrons can rely on during the holiday season.
How does your business collaborate with other Downtown Kenosha businesses during the holidays?
Rob: While collaboration is currently limited, I’d love to participate in more joint efforts to make the downtown area even more vibrant during the holidays. Strengthening these partnerships can enhance the overall experience for our community.
What role does your business play in making Downtown Kenosha a festive destination?
Rob: Our festive decorations and the warm ambiance of our restaurant help create a holiday haven where families can gather and celebrate together. By maintaining the traditions established over six decades ago, we contribute to the enduring charm of Downtown Kenosha.
Can you share a story about how your business has positively impacted someone’s holiday in Kenosha?
Rob: One customer stands out—a grandfather who brings his grandchildren to Villa D’Carlo every year before Christmas. Since he doesn’t have a Christmas tree at home, our restaurant becomes the centerpiece of their early holiday celebration. It’s moments like these that highlight the importance of our role in the community.
What’s your favorite part of preparing for the holiday season as a Downtown Kenosha business owner?
Rob: I love putting up the outdoor decorations and chatting with passersby as they admire the festive atmosphere. These interactions, much like the ones I had growing up in the family business, make the effort truly rewarding.
How does your team celebrate the holidays together? Any fun traditions?
Rob: While we don’t have specific traditions, we’ve cherished moments in the past when we shared Christmas dinner as a team with our families. These gatherings strengthen our bonds and reflect the family-oriented nature of our establishment.
What’s one thing customers might not know about what goes into your holiday preparations?
Rob: Our process is simple and heartfelt—we focus on creating an atmosphere that’s both welcoming and festive, drawing on years of tradition. The dedication to maintaining our classic décor is a testament to our commitment to preserving the legacy of Villa D’Carlo.
What’s your favorite holiday memory connected to your business in Downtown Kenosha?
Rob: I fondly remember the times we hosted Christmas dinners exclusively for family and employees. It brought us all closer during the holiday season, much like the early days when my stepfather, Carl, established the restaurant as a family-centric establishment.
What do you love most about interacting with the community during the holidays?
Rob: The children’s joy when they see our decorations is priceless. Their excitement brings an extra layer of magic to the season, reminding us of the importance of community engagement and tradition.
How has being part of the Downtown Kenosha community shaped the way you celebrate the season?
Rob: Being in the heart of Kenosha has deepened our commitment to fostering holiday traditions and making our space a gathering point for the community. Our location has been a cornerstone of downtown since 1962, and we take pride in contributing to its festive spirit.
What do your customers seem to love most about your business during the holidays?
Rob: Our holiday decorations and the seasonal food and drink specials are always a hit with customers. They appreciate the consistency and quality that have been hallmarks of Villa D’Carlo since its inception.
How do you thank your customers for their support during the holiday season?
Rob: I make it a point to be present during dinner hours, connecting with customers and expressing our gratitude directly.
As the holiday season unfolds in Downtown Kenosha, Villa D’Carlo continues to be a place where memories are made, traditions are celebrated, and the community comes together. Rob Greskoviak and his team embody the spirit of the season, creating a warm and festive atmosphere that keeps families coming back year after year. Whether you’re stopping by for their famous pizza or simply to enjoy the decorations, Villa D’Carlo is more than just a restaurant—it’s a slice of Kenosha’s holiday heart.
I just want to personally thank you, Rob, for taking the time to share your story with me. I adore you, and I absolutely love your restaurant—it’s truly one of my favorites as are you! Your passion for your business and the community shines through, and I’m so grateful to have had the opportunity to chat with you. Wishing you, your family, and your wonderful Villa D’Carlo team a very merry holiday season!
Visit Villa D’Carlo at 5140 6th Avenue • VillaDCarlo.com • 262- 654-3932 • Facebook
Hours: Monday Closed| Tuesday – Thursday 4-9PM| Friday & Saturday 4-9:30Pm|Sunday 3-8PM
Learn more about Rob & Villa D’Carlo by listing to his apperence on the Ktown Connects Podcast Listen here SPOTIFY • APPLE • YOUTUBE
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