A Culinary Journey from Egypt to North Carolina

Our Story

Welcome to Vera Pizza Grill! My name is John Khalil, and my adventure in the world of pizza began in 2004. Hailing from Egypt, I moved to the United States in 2000 with a deep passion for food and a dream to share it with others. My culinary career started at La Rustica Pizza in Manhattan, where I honed my skills in crafting authentic New York-style pizzas. Over the years, I expanded my experience across Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island, falling in love with the art of pizza-making along the way.

In 2014, I made a bold move to North Carolina, opening my first business, Euro Café in Raleigh. Euro Café offered a unique European dining experience and its success inspired me to delve deeper into diverse culinary traditions. This journey led to the opening of two locations of Taste of New York in Fayetteville, where I brought the authentic taste of New York-style pizza and cuisine to North Carolina. From 2017 to 2023, these restaurants became beloved local spots, known for their dedication to quality and authentic flavors.

A Tribute to Family and Authenticity

Now, I am thrilled to announce the opening of Vera Pizza Grill in Raleigh. This new venture is deeply personal to me, as it is named after my beloved daughter, Vera. Naming the restaurant after her is a tribute to the inspiration and joy she brings to my life. The word "Vera" means "true" or "authentic" in Italian, reflecting our commitment to serving genuine, high-quality dishes.
At Vera Pizza Grill, we proudly serve a fusion of Italian cuisine with a New York twist, alongside Mediterranean food. Our dedication to quality ingredients and authentic recipes reflects my passion for delivering the best dining experience to our community. Every dish is crafted with love and care, aiming to bring joy to every customer who walks through our doors.

Why Vera?

Choosing a name for my restaurant was a decision close to my heart. By naming the restaurant after Vera, I am reminded daily of the importance of family, tradition, and the joy of sharing delicious meals with loved ones. This name carries a deep personal significance and reflects the values and love that I want to infuse into my restaurant.

Our Promise

At Vera Pizza Grill, "Vera" stands for more than just a name. It symbolizes our promise to provide an authentic, high-quality dining experience. Just as I cherish my daughter, I aim to create an environment that is warm, inviting, and full of love. It’s a tribute to the inspiration and happiness she brings into my life, and I hope to share that joy with every customer who walks through our doors.
Join us at Vera Pizza Grill, where tradition meets innovation, and every meal is a celebration of family, flavor, and community.