Morristown, NJ (January 16, 2025) – In Chandler, Arizona, owner Patricia “Patty” Corona stands proudly behind the counter of the Villa Italian Kitchen she has built into an example of franchise success and innovation, while over at Villa Italian Kitchen at Chicago Premium Outlets, franchise owner Maria Ruiz, and her family team epitomize the professionalism, hospitality and welcoming environment that keep customers continuously coming back.
For Patty and Maria, this moment is more than a milestone—it’s the culmination of a decades-long journey from exceptional general managers to franchise owners within Villa Restaurant Group (VRG).
Patty, who began her career at Villa in the Chandler Fashion Center, has transformed her passion for hospitality into true innovation, implementing several initiatives that have since been extended throughout the entire company: the first to try different delivery platforms to grow sales, including Door Dash and Uber Eats, she was also the first to experiment with ghost kitchens, both initiatives which have since been rolled out to other stores.

Patricia Corona and her son are new franchise owners of Villa Italian Kitchen in Chandler, AZ at Chandler Fashion Center.
Maria, who started as an hourly worker at Villa, not even knowing how to use a computer, has grown her passion for excellence into a true family-owned business, bringing her dedication and family’s values to the forefront along with her two sons who help her run the store.
“This is what Villa Restaurant Group is all about—helping people achieve their dreams,” said Kelly Hernandez, divisional vice president of VRG. “Patty and Maria didn’t just manage stores; they built communities. Their stores became destinations, not just for great food, but also for genuine care and connection. Seeing them take ownership feels like the natural next step, and we couldn’t be prouder.”
The transition of these locations was more than a business deal. It was a celebration of years of dedication, countless hours of leadership, and the relationships built along the way. This moment also underscores Villa Restaurant Group’s commitment to empowering women in leadership roles—a commitment that sets VRG apart in the restaurant industry. Each team member, from the founding Scotto family to VRG’s support staff, played a part in making this moment happen.

Maria Ruiz and her sons are the new franchisees of Villa Italian Kitchen at the Chicago Premium Outlets.
Patty and Maria’s stories are just two examples of VRG’s unique culture—a place where career paths can lead to ownership. Since joining the company in 2014, both women have exemplified what it means to lead with integrity, inspire others, and consistently exceed expectations.
On a bustling morning in Chandler, Patty greets her regulars by name, while her son manages the line with effortless charm. Over in Chicago, Maria’s laughter rings out as her team preps for the lunch rush, with her sons carrying on the values that made their mom a standout leader. These are more than new franchise locations—they are extensions of the families that run them.
Villa Restaurant Group remains committed to fostering ambition and recognizing talent, ensuring that the next wave of leaders—like Patty and Maria—have the tools, guidance, and support to take the leap into ownership.
For more information about Villa Restaurant Group and its franchise opportunities, visit www.villarestaurantgroup.com.
About Villa Restaurant Group:
Villa Restaurant Group (VRG) is a family-owned, multi-brand hospitality company with over 60 years of experience delivering exceptional dining experiences. From local stores to franchise opportunities, VRG is committed to empowering employees, fostering growth, and creating a legacy of excellence.