Franchising

Mr. Gatti's Pizza makes comeback in Sanford, North Carolina after 2 decades

Photo: Mr. Gatti's

July 11, 2025

Mr Gatti's Pizza is making its return to Sanford, North Carolina, after 20 years. The restaurant opens July 14, according to a press release.

The pizza buffet and modernized gaming center will be located in the Shoppes at Sandford and is under the helm of franchisee Matt Oborne.

"This opening is incredibly personal," Oborne said in the release. "I am extremely excited and proud to not only bring Mr Gatti's Pizza back to the great state of North Carolina, but specifically to my hometown, Sanford. So many friends and family supported me through this process and now the opening is finally here... it's Gatti's pizza time again in Sanford!"

The Oborne family moved to Sanford in 1983, and Mr Gatti's quickly became Matt Oborne's second home. He developed close ties with the Habeeb family, who originally owned and operated the former location.

"They created something truly special," Oborne added. "I've known Brad Habeeb since fifth grade, we graduated high school together, lived together in college, and he was a groomsman in my wedding. I have so much love and respect for the Habeeb family and I hope to make them proud."

The Habeebs will be special guests at the grand opening on July 14.

The location will hold a soft launch lunch on Saturday, July 12 for Lee County Fire Department and Sanford Police Department personnel, as a gesture of appreciation to the community's first responders.

Mr. Gatti's has more than 230 active and forthcoming locations in Texas and the Southeastern U.S.