Russo on namesake eatery's expansion into Qatar: 'An incredibly exciting global market that I have become very fond of'

Houston-based fast-casual restaurant chain Russo's New York Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen plans to further expand in the Middle East, according to a press release.

The eatery inked a five-unit franchise deal in Qatar, adding to an international portfolio that includes locations in United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Saudi Arabia.

The company said that the first Russo's restaurant in Qatar, a peninsular Arab country that's home to nearly three million, will open during the fourth quarter of this year, reportedly ahead of the World Cup.

According to the release, the inaugural establishment will be located in the Doha Oasis mixed-use district. 

The Doha Oasis is home to a hotel, theme park, a movie theater and various bars and restaurants, the release said.

Russo's specializes in hand-tossed New York-style pizzas crafted from original family recipes from Naples and Sicily.

Because Qatar's official religion is Islam, each Russo's location in the country will have halal options, the release said.

For company founder and CEO Anthony Russo, choosing to expand into Qatar wasn't a difficult choice.

"We're thrilled to grow our international footprint and showcase our elevated fast casual dining experience in Qatar, an incredibly exciting global market that I have become very fond of," he said, per the release. "We are honored to have the support of our new Qatari franchisee."

Russo added that the World Cup will help the brand. 

"Opening just ahead of the World Cup is the perfect opportunity to grow brand awareness among an influential, global audience," he said in the release.

The son of Italian immigrants who originally settled on the East Coast before moving to the Houston area, Russo founded his namesake business in 1992.

According to the release, Russo's has partnerships with 27 franchisees and more than 50 domestic locations.