Meet Kevin McNamara of Wise Guys Pizzeria in Grapevine and Roanoke

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kevin McNamara.

Kevin, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
My career in the restaurant industry started when I was very young. I had always looked up to my Uncle Tim. He was very successful in the restaurant industry. At 15 years of age, I started working for McDonald’s. Quickly moved on up to the big drive through. I was pumped about my nickel raise! As time went on, I moved to various jobs in the hospitality industry including Owens Family Restaurant, Cheddar’s and finally landing at Texas Roadhouse where I spent almost 16 years. Although the time at Texas Roadhouse was great, I still had a drive for something else. My Uncle Tim and his partner Mike opened the first Wise Guys Pizzeria in Orange, California in 2007. I was blown away with the culture and family values. Pizza, Pasta, and Premium drafts. It got me thinking about how we could bring this to the Lone Star State! I couldn’t shake the idea so I hopped on a plane to California to approach Tim. I needed him to know I was serious. We opened Wise Guys Pizzeria in Grapevine, Tx in March of 2015.

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
The road has been anything but smooth. It’s a marathon, not a sprint. In the beginning, most people think you are crazy. Sometimes, I may even think that I am CRAZY! The longer we go the more people buy into the passion, people, product and process of how we operate. That is the fun part! Starting to prove the nay- sayers wrong. I certainly don’t want to come across as over confident because this industry has a way of humbling us all but I believe passionately in our team and vision. We really focus on exceeding expectations daily in three facets. Exceed our guest’s expectations with the quality of food and service. Exceed our employee’s expectations of how we love and treat them, and exceed our communities expectations by giving more than is expected of us.

Easy road. Not so much. Worth it? Absolutely!

One day at a time, one guest at a time and sometimes, literally, one pizza at a time.

It’s not for everyone. Truly depends on how bad do you want it and how much are you willing to sacrifice to get there.

Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Wise Guys Pizzeria – what should we know?
We are known for the quality food and service with a local feel!

Pizza, Pasta, Premium drafts.

We serve local craft beer in which you can take home in a Growler.

Our classic rock sing along music brings energy to the restaurant and will have you singing throughout your visit.

Every guest gets a complimentary basket of garlic knots. It’s our “Chips and Salsa” and guests CRAVE them! Tasty treats!

I am most proud of the team we have and their hearts to serve their guests, each other and the community. It is truly a blessing to be in Grapevine and Roanoke.

Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
Tim McNamara and Mike Ernst the founders of the original Wise Guys Pizzeria! They set the tone and culture! A big Thanks to them!!

My partner Larry McCain. The best of the best. A competitor, family man, and a great friend. Larry bought into the vision before anyone else did. Thanks for your hard work, dedication, and drive! It’s just the beginning!

My beautiful wife, Kimberly McNamara. Thank you for your constant support, prayers, and love. This has been a huge sacrifice and challenge and I am beyond thankful for your love and support!

My team – you amaze me with your level of care and concern for each other and for the guest! Super thankful for you all!

The Good Lord – Thank you for challenging us. For challenging us to make a difference. For the hard times and the good times. For keeping the lights on and the guests coming back with big smiles. For the memories shared over a meal in our restaurants. For guiding our every step!

Contact Info:

• Address: Grapevine- 322 S. Park Blvd
  Grapevine, TX 76051Roanoke
  311 S. Oak St.
  Roanoke, TX 76262
• Website: www.wiseguystx.com
• Phone: 817-488-0001 GV 682-237-2201 RN
• Email: kevin@wiseguystx.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wiseguystx
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wiseguystx

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