CiCi's - Now Village Pizza

[sralph99]

CiCi's in the Colony Plaza is now Village Pizza. Same owner and staff and it looks like it hasn't changed, other then the name.

[Schaumburger]

I was at Colony Plaza tonight (stopped at Peachwave Yogurt - mmmm). The sign has not been changed yet -- still says CiCi's Pizza.

[skyguy79]

I went to the Cici's website and did a zip code search to see if the Colony Plaza location came up. It didn't!

[NotGolfer]

Sign "is" still Cici's but if you go in you will get the greeting "Welcome to Villages Pizza". Think they're in transition!

[justjim]

Villages Pizza-----original name and if the pizza lives up to their new name IMHO it would be terrific. CC'S food was "so so" at best. We should know something in a few weeks.

[A-4 Skyhawk]

CiCi's being a chain I'm guessing the owner was locked into their ingredients and their menu. It will be interesting to see what they do to with both.

[CatskillBill]

CiCi's being a chain I'm guessing the owner was locked into their ingredients and their menu. It will be interesting to see what they do to with both.


Any change would be an improvement over what they serve now. Last time I ate there it was a step below gas station pizza. IMHO

[KathieI]

I'm glad he's removed himself from the chain. The owner has been very accommodating to TOTV requests. I've been going there since they opened.

We asked him (TOTV members through me) to put signs above the pizzas so we would know what they were, and he did. We asked him to add more side items in the salad bar, and he did. We asked him to stop the clean up cart from making so much noise while cleaning up tables, and he did!!!! A great guy listening to customers.

Now I'm hoping he will add more to the pasta section instead of corkscrew pasta and ketchup (LOL) and make that more appetizing.

I wish him much success and will continue to go there. I lost 40 lbs by eating his salad bar, 2 pieces of his garlic rolls and diet coke... Quick, convenient and cheap...

You can tell, I love that place.

[BarryRX]

I'm glad he's removed himself from the chain. The owner has been very accommodating to TOTV requests. I've been going there since they opened.

We asked him (TOTV members through me) to put signs above the pizzas so we would know what they were, and he did. We asked him to add more side items in the salad bar, and he did. We asked him to stop the clean up cart from making so much noise while cleaning up tables, and he did!!!! A great guy listening to customers.

Now I'm hoping he will add more to the pasta section instead of corkscrew pasta and ketchup (LOL) and make that more appetizing.

I wish him much success and will continue to go there. I lost 40 lbs by eating his salad bar, 2 pieces of his garlic rolls and diet coke... Quick, convenient and cheap...

You can tell, I love that place.


Congratulations on your willpower. It couldn't have been easy losing weight in an "all you can eat" pizza place!

[villager]

It will be interesting to see how it changes. I'm bummed I didn't use up all my freebie cards before the change. Now it is too late.

[rhood]

Last time we were there, there was a poker tournament in the back of the room. Haven't been back.

[Down Sized]

:bigbow::bigbow:Congratulations on your willpower. It couldn't have been easy losing weight in an "all you can eat" pizza place!

I had to walk 10 miles a day to loose 40lbs.Must be a secret there somewhere.

[renielarson]

I hope the owner can replicate CiCi's rustic pizza. It was our favorite! Our 8 year old grandson will be disappointed if he doesn't offer yummy brownies and sticky buns. Nathan would always eat a good dinner just so he could get his favorite desserts. Time will tell.

[dgammon6]

I hope the owner stays and is very successful. He is a very generous man as far as donating to charity. He donates pizza to the Special Needs Kids when the Streetrod club takes them for cart rides at the Polo field. Im talking about 100 or more kids. He is the father of a special needs child. So I wish him great success.

[renielarson]

I hope the owner stays and is very successful. He is a very generous man as far as donating to charity. He donates pizza to the Special Needs Kids when the Streetrod club takes them for cart rides at the Polo field. Im talking about 100 or more kids. He is the father of a special needs child. So I wish him great success.

As a retired teacher, this warms my heart. I wish him success (and still hope he makes the rustic pizza, brownies, and sticky buns...lol)

[skyguy79]

I hope they begin delivering. When we're interested in having pizza, we currently have a choice of at least 10 different pizza places that will deliver to us, and that gives us little incentive for wanting to drive to Colony Plaza for a pickup.

[buggyone]

The two worst area pizzas are CiCi's and Hungry Howie's. Both are flavorless.

The owner may be the nicest guy in the world and he may make excellent brownies and sticky buns but the pizza is TERRIBLE.

Mallory Hill CC has the best pizza in The Villages, in my opinion.

[renielarson]

The two worst area pizzas are CiCi's and Hungry Howie's. Both are flavorless.

The owner may be the nicest guy in the world and he may make excellent brownies and sticky buns but the pizza is TERRIBLE.

Mallory Hill CC has the best pizza in The Villages, in my opinion.

What we discovered about CiCi's was that the pizza ordered for take out was much better than the pizza served on the "line". The take out ones were more flavorful, had more toppings, and were good.

[KathieI]

Congratulations on your willpower. It couldn't have been easy losing weight in an "all you can eat" pizza place!

LOL, funny thing is, I didn't eat any pizza. Went there for the speed of putting together a great salad and there weren't any of those mayonnaise based salads to tempt me. I also brought my own grilled chicken and low fat salad dressing and some sides like dried cranberries.

Don't get me wrong, I also worked out 3 times a week with a personal trainer at MVP (Wellness Center) club and danced every night.

It wasn't easy and with my nightlife schedule it was hard to find places to eat where I could put together my own low-fat salad.

[KathieI]

I hope the owner stays and is very successful. He is a very generous man as far as donating to charity. He donates pizza to the Special Needs Kids when the Streetrod club takes them for cart rides at the Polo field. Im talking about 100 or more kids. He is the father of a special needs child. So I wish him great success.

:agree::agree:

[asianthree]

not a fan of CICIs so village pizza has no where to go but up

[sralph99]

The owner and staff are the same as before.

[buzzy]

Stopped in today and spoke to a manager (not owner). It's the same stuff, just not under the franchise.

[goodgrief]

Definately post if things change and the pizza becomes edible. I might give it a try again. As for cici's , the pizza was forgettable.

[travelguy]

hope that they completely revamp the menu and the quality of their food. otherwise it is just the same crap. and believe me, no self-respecting pizza afficionado would ever eat at cici's.

[jpharmat]

I have to admit that I LOVE the Mac and Cheese Pizza along with the sticky buns.

[ugotme]

Definately post if things change and the pizza becomes edible. I might give it a try again. As for cici's , the pizza was forgettable.

Have to say that IMHO I agree but think you are being awfully KIND !

[garvon]

No they will honor the VIP free cards if it is filled for a short time. If they are not filled he will give you a new card that says Village Pizza

[Walker]

I ate there today and they transferred my frequent dining punch card to a new card. The food was similar to before, but better. They made me a Rustic Pizza when I asked for it, they now call it "Thin Crust". The pasta bar now has real marinara sauce, great improvement. I always spoon some on my pizza, because I like it juicy and messy. Also same employees as before.

[ght70]

We love going in there..just to hear him say WELCOME TO CIIIIII CIIIIII's.

He also has been very accommodating to us each time we go in. Very nice guy. Wish him the best.

[Aloha]

I had lunch there this week and I was impressed. They have improved the crust and the sauce on the pizza. It is a MUCH better product than when it was Ci Ci's. In fact, it is much, much better than the below average pizza I had at the NYPD place, and a much better value considering the price. If you have not tried it lately, check it out.

[Mack184]

The two worst area pizzas are CiCi's and Hungry Howie's. Both are flavorless.

The owner may be the nicest guy in the world and he may make excellent brownies and sticky buns but the pizza is TERRIBLE.

Mallory Hill CC has the best pizza in The Villages, in my opinion.
Cici's just like Pizza Hut, Domino's & Papa John's is a franchise operation. If you sign onto their deal then you have to use their items, their recipes and their SOP. The franchisee cannot mess with their "formula", so if the product isn't so great, there's not much the franchise owner can do about it with the exception of not renewing his franchise when it comes due.

[BamaGirl]

We ate there tonight and the pizza was very good, much better than before. The owner really needs our support right now. As stated in previous post he is a good caring man and has earned our respect. It would be great if everyone would give his business another try.

[Patty55]

We ate there tonight and the pizza was very good, much better than before. The owner really needs our support right now. As stated in previous post he is a good caring man and has earned our respect. It would be great if everyone would give his business another try.

I don't think so.

[buggyone]

I agree 100% with Patty. I don't think I will be returning to CiCi's or whatever he is calling it now. The owner could be a wonderful and caring individual - but the reason I go to a restaurant is for GOOD food and not some bland pizza that cannot be differentiated from cardboard with a hint of pizza sauce smeared on it.

[Bill-n-Brillo]

Given that it sounds like the owner has changed the recipe for the pizzas, Sandy and I owe it to ourselves to give it a try when we're down there next.

I was "o.k." with CiCi's pizza before - Sandy didn't care for it. We'll give it another shot then decide for ourselves.

Bill :)

[skyguy79]

Given that it sounds like the owner has changed the recipe for the pizzas, Sandy and I owe it to ourselves to give it a try when we're down there next.

I was "o.k." with CiCi's pizza before - Sandy didn't care for it. We'll give it another shot then decide for ourselves.

Bill :)I totally agree with you. We ate there yesterday and I did not find as bad as it was described by the negative comments posted here. Is it the best in TV? No, but I wouldn't say it was that bad either! Also, I can see how someone could liken the crust to cardboad, but in no way did I think it tasted like cardboard.

What's a shame is that there were only two other people in there while we were there, and despite that they had pizza with all kinds topping out on the buffet. In my opinion everything was fresh, nothing was stale and replenished when short, and we were even told that if we did not see what pizza we wanted, they would prepare for us what we wanted. The person that seemed to be the manager or owner even checked with us at least 3 time to see if everything was OK.

I would advise that people don't take my opinion about Village Pizza or the opinions of others either. Everyone's taste and likes are as varied as our personalities are, and the only opinion that matters is one that comes out of trying it for yourself.

I was hesitant to stop there yesterday after the many negative things I've read in the past about the place, but decided it was only one meal and that it wouldn't ruin my millennium if I didn't care for it. Nothing ventured, nothing gained!

[Paulm47]

Was there at 4:30 today. Closed up tight with a sign saying they had been closed down by Cici's. Also said thanks for 4 years and close out sale on Saturday - $5.00 to go pizzas till they are all gone.

[Bogie Shooter]

Should make those happy who came on here and dissed this business.

[justjim]

Too bad about Village Pizza/CiCi's----we can use more restaurants in TV south.

[Roaddog53]

Should make those happy who came on here and dissed this business.

Totally agree with Bogie on this one. Maybe they will put something else in there that people can complain and whine about. Unbelievable the people on here that never give someone/business/whatever a second chance. Seems to be typical what I have seen.. But I would bet they have had many in their past. Sad..

[Bogie Shooter]

:wave:Totally agree with Bogie on this one. Maybe they will put something else in there that people can complain and whine about. Unbelievable the people on here that never give someone/business/whatever a second chance. Seems to be typical what I have seen.. But I would bet they have had many in their past. Sad..
:wave:

[buggyone]

Originally Posted by Bogie Shooter
Should make those happy who came on here and dissed this business.


Does not make me "happy" that a restaurant closed down. However, when a restaurant does not serve a product that people enjoy eating and will keep coming back for that product - the business should either "re-tool" or close.

As far as the "close-out special" of any CiCi pizza for $5 until sold out - that shows that the product is definitely not fresh. They obviously have lots of unused sauce, crusts, and toppings left over that they are trying to get rid of so they do not have to throw it out.

My suggestion for excellent pizza is the pizza at Mallory Hill Country Club.

[Challenger]

In America today, people vote with their feet. If the product and service is to their liking , they patronize the enterprize. Apparently CiCi's didn't meet the test. The system is the capitalistic version of "survival of the fittest" and quickly eliminates poor or inefficient operations The process can be brutal but all other systems produce lesser results in the final analysis. Sorry someone is losing their business. Hope they can regroup and try again. TOTV was not the cause of this failure

[Patty55]

Totally agree with Bogie on this one. Maybe they will put something else in there that people can complain and whine about. Unbelievable the people on here that never give someone/business/whatever a second chance. Seems to be typical what I have seen.. But I would bet they have had many in their past. Sad..

Why would you go back if you didn't like it? It's a fast food restaurant, it's not like I caught a bad night, it is what it is. It wasn't getting any better.

The market here is very diverse, he should have played to his market, had an ad campaign saying pizza like you had growing up in Iowa.:shrug:

[rubicon]

Congratulations on your willpower. It couldn't have been easy losing weight in an "all you can eat" pizza place!

That's an oxymoron???????????? congrats on the new slim you

[Roaddog53]

Why would you go back if you didn't like it? It's a fast food restaurant, it's not like I caught a bad night, it is what it is. It wasn't getting any better.

The market here is very diverse, he should have played to his market, had an ad campaign saying pizza like you had growing up in Iowa.:shrug:

Funny I believe you were the one in a previous post that stated no way would you try it again. They changed menus, recipes, sauces, and more when they changed to The Villages Pizza. But you say it wasn't getting any better. If you didn't go back to try it as you stated , than how would YOU know it wasn't getting any better? You must have been forming an opinion from others who told you.
Don't get me wrong, I too will not go back to a business that repeatedly has bad service or product. This place (TV) does have plenty of these businesses too. But I have and WILL give a business a second chance when they claim they have changed. Contrary to many others. They did change and it was better...not perfect but they were trying to improve. Even the owner said it was an improvement over the CICIs product/franchise.

[Patty55]

Funny I believe you were the one in a previous post that stated no way would you try it again. They changed menus, recipes, sauces, and more when they changed to The Villages Pizza. But you say it wasn't getting any better. If you didn't go back to try it as you stated , than how would YOU know it wasn't getting any better? You must have been forming an opinion from others who told you.
Don't get me wrong, I too will not go back to a business that repeatedly has bad service or product. This place (TV) does have plenty of these businesses too. But I have and WILL give a business a second chance when they claim they have changed. Contrary to many others. They did change and it was better...not perfect but they were trying to improve. Even the owner said it was an improvement over the CICIs product/franchise.

I will try a place again if the service was bad, but not the food.

"Even the owner said it was an improvement...". Are you kidding me? So, I guess he knew his product was not good. Sorry, he might be a great guy, but he made the mistake of investing in a franchise that even he acknowledges was needing improvement.

I can doctor bad pizza, I put a ton of hot pepper and pile my salad on it. A big glass of wine helps, but I don't do it twice.

Given the choice I would have preferred to mail him the $5 than to eat there again. I NEVER SAID IT WASN'T GETTING ANY BETTER, I don't care if it was getting better. It is what it is, fast food pizza.

[Roaddog53]

I will try a place again if the service was bad, but not the food.

"Even the owner said it was an improvement...". Are you kidding me? So, I guess he knew his product was not good. Sorry, he might be a great guy, but he made the mistake of investing in a franchise that even he acknowledges was needing improvement.

I can doctor bad pizza, I put a ton of hot pepper and pile my salad on it. A big glass of wine helps, but I don't do it twice.

Given the choice I would have preferred to mail him the $5 than to eat there again. I NEVER SAID IT WASN'T GETTING ANY BETTER, I don't care if it was getting better. It is what it is, fast food pizza.

"Why would you go back if you didn't like it? It's a fast food restaurant, it's not like I caught a bad night, it is what it is. It wasn't getting any better"

Good for you. Guess you should stay away from all fast food since not your thing. Than why complain at all? All pizza is fast food.. papa Johns..dominos, NYPD..Mallory country club.. All the same "concept", sit down or take out. . Also All Subways, Qdobas,

[Patty55]

"Why would you go back if you didn't like it? It's a fast food restaurant, it's not like I caught a bad night, it is what it is. It wasn't getting any better"

Good for you. Guess you should stay away from all fast food since not your thing. Than why complain at all? All pizza is fast food.. papa Johns..dominos, NYPD..Mallory country club.. All the same "concept", sit down or take out. . Also All Subways, Qdobas,

"Sit down or take out" is not what makes those pizza places fast food. What makes them fast food is frozen dough and canned sauce. Don't know where you're from, but all pizza is not fast food.

You're right, fast food is not my thing. I didn't realize Mallory was fast food, guess they're off my list.

[Roaddog53]

"Sit down or take out" is not what makes those pizza places fast food. What makes them fast food is frozen dough and canned sauce. Don't know where you're from, but all pizza is not fast food.

You're right, fast food is not my thing. I didn't realize Mallory was fast food, guess they're off my list.

Patti, obviously I don't care what you eat or where, but unless you go to each restaurant and ask how they make their food, (most is by food distributors such as Gordons, etc, since most can't afford to make everything on their menu,) it doesn't sound like you will eat out much. :) have a good Thanksgiving and thanks for the views/opinion. Always good to hear all sides.

[Roaddog53]

"Sit down or take out" is not what makes those pizza places fast food. What makes them fast food is frozen dough and canned sauce. Don't know where you're from, but all pizza is not fast food.

You're right, fast food is not my thing. I didn't realize Mallory was fast food, guess they're off my list.

Patty, obviously I don't care what you eat or where, but unless you go to each restaurant and ask how they make their food, (most is by food distributors such as Gordons, etc, since most can't afford to make everything on their menu,) it doesn't sound like you will eat out much. :) have a good Thanksgiving and thanks for the views/opinion. Always good to hear all sides.

[Patty55]

Patty, obviously I don't care what you eat or where, but unless you go to each restaurant and ask how they make their food, (most is by food distributors such as Gordons, etc, since most can't afford to make everything on their menu,) it doesn't sound like you will eat out much. :) have a good Thanksgiving and thanks for the views/opinion. Always good to hear all sides.

Do you own/work at a restaurant? I have in the past done precisely that, asked how the food is prepared. Maybe you remember me-LOL.

If they can't afford to make everything on the menu, why not raise the price or change the menu?

Why can't a pizza restaurant make pizza dough? Can't be because of price or difficulty, IMO it is sheer laziness and just not trying to put out a good product. Thinking pre-fab dreck is good enough.

One thing you are correct in assuming, I will not be eating out often, I prefer to dine out.

[kb8tpw]

IMHO and after reading the actual sign I think the point has been missed. It appears to me that they tried to divorce CiCis and begin another pizza venture and CiCi's took exception to that. I may be all wet, but that was how I interpreted the situation. Just don't take my PeachWave........

[bluedog103]

Why would you go back if you didn't like it? It's a fast food restaurant, it's not like I caught a bad night, it is what it is. It wasn't getting any better.

The market here is very diverse, he should have played to his market, had an ad campaign saying pizza like you had growing up in Iowa.:shrug:

What did you expect when you went to CiCi's? I like to take my 7 year old grandson to CiCi's but I'm certainly not expecting a gourmet meal. It does a good job doing what it does. It's CiCi's for crying out loud. Hope you're not expecting a porterhouse if you ever go to Steak and Shake.

[Patty55]

What did you expect when you went to CiCi's? I like to take my 7 year old grandson to CiCi's but I'm certainly not expecting a gourmet meal. It does a good job doing what it does. It's CiCi's for crying out loud. Hope you're not expecting a porterhouse if you ever go to Steak and Shake.

I expected decent pizza-dopey moi.

Never been to a steak and shake.

[foxmeadow]

All this pizza talk.. I'm off to my favorite...PIZZA HUT!!

[bluedog103]

All this pizza talk.. I'm off to my favorite...PIZZA HUT!!

Sic 'em Patty!

[Sunshine Mary]

Yes yes yes i love pizza hut wish there was more of them .we need one in sanibel.

all this pizza talk.. I'm off to my favorite...pizza hut!!

[Patty55]

Sic 'em Patty!

It's a shame that all you people on this thread praising fast-food pizza didn't go to Cici's-he might still be in business.

[Mack184]

What did you expect when you went to CiCi's? I like to take my 7 year old grandson to CiCi's but I'm certainly not expecting a gourmet meal. It does a good job doing what it does. It's CiCi's for crying out loud. Hope you're not expecting a porterhouse if you ever go to Steak and Shake.
I love Steak & Shake! I am afraid that after a year down there I'll weigh 600 pounds. There aren't any up here in Baltimore.

[skyguy79]

Yes yes yes i love pizza hut wish there was more of them .we need one in sanibel.Mary, there will never be a Pizza Hut in Sanibel. It's residental. However, there is a Pizza Hut not far from you in Wildwood. They will deliver to you. , but if your address is not on GPS yet, you may need to call them directly. Here is their website where you could order online for delivery or pickup:

Pizza Hut - Build Your Own Pizza or Choose One of Our Specialties (http://www.pizzahut.com/locations/florida/wildwood/027447)

[bluedog103]

I love Steak & Shake! I am afraid that after a year down there I'll weigh 600 pounds. There aren't any up here in Baltimore.

I like Steak and Shake too. There's none near us in NY but it's become a favorite in Florida. Great shakes, great prices.

[Mack184]

I like Steak and Shake too. There's none near us in NY but it's become a favorite in Florida. Great shakes, great prices.
Just love 'em! I got introduced to S&S when I was working out in Illinois many years ago. My wife & I are originally from upstate NY and there are none there, but I've worked in a number of states over the years and I could always find them in the mid-west. Having them nearby us in Florida will be dangerous!!

[buggyone]

Did you know that between 2pm and 4pm that the shakes at Steak and Shake are half price? Yep, any shake is only $1.85.

[Wi11iam]

CiCi's in the Colony Plaza is now Village Pizza. Same owner and staff and it looks like it hasn't changed, other then the name.

Will it remain all you can eat? I max at 2 slices but like the thought of all that value of the endless pizza..lol:a040::a040:

[skyguy79]

I've rarely downplayed any place I've had food from, but I tried Steak and Shakes once. ONCE! The shake was great, but the burgers? Forget it! They were eatable, but I don't think I've ever had burgers that I've liked less! I'd describe them, but I actually found them forgettable... and I love burgers, not like Wimpy does, but I do! As I've stated before though... don't just take my opinion about them... try them and decide for yourself sometime.

[Bill-n-Brillo]

Was there at 4:30 today. Closed up tight with a sign saying they had been closed down by Cici's. Also said thanks for 4 years and close out sale on Saturday - $5.00 to go pizzas till they are all gone.

Will it remain all you can eat? I max at 2 slices but like the thought of all that value of the endless pizza..lol:a040::a040:

Wi11iam, from Paulm47's post #39 above. The place is apparently now closed.

Bill :)

[Canabarrybarb]

Picked up 2 good pizzas from "Cici's" on Saturday and they said they would stay open on Monday to try to sell off the remaining stock.

[Walker]

Sad but true, I went by Monday, CLOSING, only $5 carry out pizzas until they run out of supplies. They were nice people, Gary and Dominic. What I fear most is that CiCi’s won’t give up the location and turn it back into a CiCi’s when we could have had a decent buffet like Pizza Hut. The Hungry Howies buffet in Wildwood is very good and only $4.99 They got a new owner this summer who really cleaned it up. I watch them and when there’s only 1 or 2 slices left on a pizza, they throw them away and put out a whole fresh pie.

[skyguy79]

Sad but true, I went by Monday, CLOSING, only $5 carry out pizzas until they run out of supplies. They were nice people, Gary and Dominic. What I fear most is that CiCi’s won’t give up the location and turn it back into a CiCi’s when we could have had a decent buffet like Pizza Hut. The Hungry Howies buffet in Wildwood is very good and only $4.99 They got a new owner this summer who really cleaned it up. I watch them and when there’s only 1 or 2 slices left on a pizza, they throw them away and put out a whole fresh pie.I have a feeling that you won't see Cici's there again. We were by it just a few hours ago and they Cici's sign was gone! Personally I doubt that you would see Pizza Hut there. Doesn't fit their signature building look.

What I wouldn't mind though is a good deli, either Italian or one like they would have in the greater NYC area. Aah... for a deli sandwich that is much bigger then my mouth!

http://www.clipartpal.com/_thumbs/laughinghorse_001955_tns.png

[ugotme]

I have a feeling that you won't see Cici's there again. We were by it just a few hours ago and they Cici's sign was gone! Personally I doubt that you would see Pizza Hut there. Doesn't fit their signature building look.

What I wouldn't mind though is a good deli, either Italian or one like they would have in the greater NYC area. Aah... for a deli sandwich that is much bigger then my mouth!

http://www.clipartpal.com/_thumbs/laughinghorse_001955_tns.png

Ahh yes - Carnegies, 2nd Ave. Deli, etc. etc.
Although, personally I would prefer an Italian Deli. LOL
Would love to see a diner like we had on Long Island.
Great food - open 24/7 !!!!

[champion6]

I have a feeling that you won't see Cici's there again. We were by it just a few hours ago and they Cici's sign was gone!The "CiCi's" was removed before they were forced to close. We noticed this when we ate there during the time it was "Village" Pizza.

[bluedog103]

Ahh yes - Carnegies, 2nd Ave. Deli, etc. etc.
Although, personally I would prefer an Italian Deli. LOL
Would love to see a diner like we had on Long Island.
Great food - open 24/7 !!!!

Oh yeah, a good deli or a diner around here would be a definite money maker! How about a good pastrami on rye with the meat piled high, not just in the center of the bread but all over. Seems like most places make a sandwich so it's thick with meat in the middle but the edges are pretty much empty. At first you think you have a decent sandwich but after a couple of bites you realize you have been duped.

[ugotme]

Oh yeah, a good deli or a diner around here would be a definite money maker! How about a good pastrami on rye with the meat piled high, not just in the center of the bread but all over. Seems like most places make a sandwich so it's thick with meat in the middle but the edges are pretty much empty. At first you think you have a decent sandwich but after a couple of bites you realize you have been duped.

I agree. The first time I was at Carnegie my eyes must have bugged out of my head. TALK ABOUT A SANDWICH!

But. . . that was then and this is now.
Still will probably never get used to not being able to eat something at 2 or 3 in the morning. Nice scrambled eggs/sausage and has browns. Cheeseburgers and fries.

ENOUGH - I'm getting hungry. :icon_hungry:

[travelguy]

so let me get this straight. the owner decided not to re-new his franchise agreement with cici's. business was fine until he decided this, and as soon as he re-launched then suddenly the customers stopped coming in and he was forced to go out of business in a matter of weeks? there is more to this than we are hearing.

[exmayor95]

I'm sure there is more to the story. The Villages owns the property. They will decide who and what goes in. Be nice to see some type of breakfast/lunch place there.

[skyguy79]

so let me get this straight. the owner decided not to re-new his franchise agreement with cici's. business was fine until he decided this, and as soon as he re-launched then suddenly the customers stopped coming in and he was forced to go out of business in a matter of weeks? there is more to this than we are hearing.Probably, but do we ever hear everything about anything now a days?

[bike42]

so let me get this straight. the owner decided not to re-new his franchise agreement with cici's. business was fine until he decided this, and as soon as he re-launched then suddenly the customers stopped coming in and he was forced to go out of business in a matter of weeks? there is more to this than we are hearing.

The franchise agreement (with CiCi's) probably had a non-compete clause in it.

[Roaddog53]

The franchise agreement (with CiCi's) probably had a non-compete clause in it.

This is true. Cicis sued when they broke the agreement. Cici's franchise marketing was not tailored for the area. In fact many Cicis restaurants are going under. They tried to get out and start fresh with better ingredients on their own. Whether it is known or not, businesses have cycles. It is harder for a business as this to make it in the summer months when no one is here. I know, now I am going to hear the whining on how bad they were anyway. Talk to ANY owner on the difference. They could not have another pizza or Italian restaurant within a certain radius for a determined amount of time.
This is typical of many franchises. Some have from a 5 to 10 year agreement. I checked into many franchises over the years. Read the fine print. Most take a HUGE portion in fees such as licensing, marketing, and you are restricted on what and how it is served. Thus, if you can;t make it in the area, your options to get out are few.

[Walker]

This is what they told me back end of November when they were closing up:
He wanted to break his contract with CiCi's. They were too restrictive. The one month he was Villages Pizza, he made more money, and had more compliments on the food, then the whole previous 4 years they were open. He could do things his way. CiCi's sued him and took him to court. The judge sided with CiCi's only because he broke his contract. CiCi's forced him to close. He offered to sell his equipment to CiCi's but they didn't want it, so it won't likely be a CiCi's again. CiCi's will sue him again if he opens up anywhere else. His lawyer offered to pay them a "cut" if they leave him alone. Otherwise he will have to go bankrupt and they won't get anything. He paid December rent. He moved and stored everything except his oven. Said he would deep clean and reopen if they accept his offer. It's Jan 2 and the oven is still there. The saga continues...

[SALYBOW]

CiCi's in the Colony Plaza is now Village Pizza. Same owner and staff and it looks like it hasn't changed, other then the name.

Unfortunately, the name was not the problem!!!

[Pharmer]

so now there isn't any thing there: no ci ci's or Village Pizza. What a shame. What's next?

[Down Sized]

CiCi's all closed from where I came from a few years ago. When I arrived here I was supprised to see the CiCi's pizza. I took a picture to email back home to show there was one still opened here.

[Villageshooter]

This was one of the best places here in the compound to get a great pizza,, the help was always so friendly,, was so clean u culd eat off the floor,,,the restrooms looked like a high $$$ hotels ... Pies were always so fresh ,, they Wuld make anything for u,,,, so sad to see a village pillar no longer here in paradice! Was truly a sad closing

[davecz1]

They are now closed. Building is empty.

[USSGompers]

This was one of the best places here in the compound to get a great pizza,, the help was always so friendly,, was so clean u culd eat off the floor,,,the restrooms looked like a high $$$ hotels ... Pies were always so fresh ,, they Wuld make anything for u,,,, so sad to see a village pillar no longer here in paradice! Was truly a sad closing

I agree, I went there when they opened. Went there with my PT Cruiser Club (40 of us). Went there whenever my sister and kids were in town. Went there with my Mom numerous times before cancer took her. Went with my hubby several times.

I feel that in a short amount of time, something horrible has happened.

I still have my memories. I was always treated like a Queen there, unlike other restaurants and I felt wanted. I am going to miss them

Does this mean I am a 'Bush leaguer"? Inside joke!!

:swear:

[Walker]

This is what they told me back end of November when they were closing up:
He wanted to break his contract with CiCi's. They were too restrictive. The one month he was Villages Pizza, he made more money, and had more compliments on the food, then the whole previous 4 years they were open. He could do things his way. CiCi's sued him and took him to court. The judge sided with CiCi's only because he broke his contract. CiCi's forced him to close. He offered to sell his equipment to CiCi's but they didn't want it, so it won't likely be a CiCi's again. CiCi's will sue him again if he opens up anywhere else. His lawyer offered to pay them a "cut" if they leave him alone. Otherwise he will have to go bankrupt and they won't get anything. He paid December rent. He moved and stored everything except his oven. Said he would deep clean and reopen if they accept his offer. It's Jan 2 and the oven is still there. The saga continues...
2/13/13 Just noticed that the pizza oven has been removed. They must have given up the lease, I wish them well. So the news is: That location is now WIDE OPEN! I hope for another Pizza place, maybe with oven toasted subs thrown in as well. Hey, if anybody happens to be dining at maybe say Flippers or NYPD Pizza, ask the question and post their replies here…

[Russ_Boston]

2/13/13 Just noticed that the pizza oven has been removed. They must have given up the lease, I wish them well. So the news is: That location is now WIDE OPEN! I hope for another Pizza place, maybe with oven toasted subs thrown in as well. Hey, if anybody happens to be dining at maybe say Flippers or NYPD Pizza, ask the question and post their replies here…

Word on the street is that Flippers is optioning another site. The rumor is that Colony is the front-runner (but LSL is still a possibility but not sure which store front it would be).

[Aloha]

I understand that Flippers will have 5 locations in The Villages. The locations are still to be determined and the time frame. They have been very pleased with the great customers they have had at their current location. Folks in The Villages are smart enough to realize a great product, with excellent pricing and excellent service. The new locations should help with the over-crowding at the one Flipper's location in Spanish Springs.

Here is their current Menu.,,

Flippers Pizzeria Menu, Voted Best Pizza Places in Florida, Online pizza deals | Flippers Pizzeria (http://www.flipperspizzeria.com/our-menu/)

http://www.suzyboe.com/images/video-tv3.jpg

[gemorc]

This is true. Cicis sued when they broke the agreement. Cici's franchise marketing was not tailored for the area. In fact many Cicis restaurants are going under. They tried to get out and start fresh with better ingredients on their own. Whether it is known or not, businesses have cycles. It is harder for a business as this to make it in the summer months when no one is here. I know, now I am going to hear the whining on how bad they were anyway. Talk to ANY owner on the difference. They could not have another pizza or Italian restaurant within a certain radius for a determined amount of time.
This is typical of many franchises. Some have from a 5 to 10 year agreement. I checked into many franchises over the years. Read the fine print. Most take a HUGE portion in fees such as licensing, marketing, and you are restricted on what and how it is served. Thus, if you can;t make it in the area, your options to get out are few.

I am really amazed that with almost 80,000 people here year round, that some people still think this place is empty during the summer.

[travelguy]

I did not know that this was a 'ghost town' during the summer. We look forward to having fewer people around, especially those who treat this community as a vacation location and have no real attachment and vested interest in The Villages. Thank you for your economic support and we appreciate that; now go back home.

[graciegirl]

The franchise agreement (with CiCi's) probably had a non-compete clause in it.

Bottom line thinking and plain old logic. You can't break a legal contract with a huge franchised company.

When you buy a franchise you do it THEIR way or they close you down.

There can be NO general agreement on which pizza is best. The pizza that YOU grew up with is best.

I so miss LaRosa's from Cincinnati.

[ugotme]

You are right Gracie.

I have only found one place in So. Fl. (near me) that, to me, is good pizza.

Personally I have tried Cici's down here and would NEVER return. If you like it - fine. Everyone has their own tastes and opinions.

[cocomeow]

CiCi's in the Colony Plaza is now Village Pizza. Same owner and staff and it looks like it hasn't changed, other then the name.

Is it still buffet style? My grandkids love that place. Anyone know why the name change?

[Bogie Shooter]

Is it still buffet style? My grandkids love that place. Anyone know why the name change?

Welcome to TOTV.
If you read the posts you will find the pizza place that replaced CiCi's did not last long. Other posts explain why.

[cocomeow]

I went back and re-read them all. I will keep checking to see what goes in there. I didn't much care for their food, but the little ones loved it.

[philnpat]

I did not know that this was a 'ghost town' during the summer. We look forward to having fewer people around, especially those who treat this community as a vacation location and have no real attachment and vested interest in The Villages. Thank you for your economic support and we appreciate that; now go back home.

America's friendliest hometown? I'll bet you were joshing. :D