Rizzo’s House of Parm: Matty Matheson’s Fort Erie Italian Spot
There’s something special about a chef who opens a restaurant in his own hometown, not just for the foot traffic but for the people he grew up with. For fans of Matty Matheson—the actor and chef from The Bear and a proud member of Bills Mafia—Rizzo’s House of Parm in Crystal Beach, Fort Erie, Ontario, is that kind of place.
Owner: Matty Matheson (actor/chef, The Bear) · Location: Crystal Beach, Fort Erie, ON · Cuisine: American-Italian · Hours: Mon–Fri 4pm–9pm; Sat–Sun 2pm–10pm · Reservations: Accepted via OpenTable · Chef’s Menu: $69.50/guest
Quick snapshot
- Owned by Matty Matheson, known from The Bear and his Buffalo Bills fandom (Rizzo’s House of Parm official site)
- Reservations strongly recommended; limited walk-ins available (Rizzo’s House of Parm official site)
- Casual dress code; jeans are fine (OpenTable listing)
- Homemade parms, pasta, and a Chef’s Menu at $69.50/guest (Rizzo’s official menu)
- Family-style Italian dishes popular with locals and visitors (Rizzo’s official menu)
- Not owned by Major Food Group (Carbone) or Frank Prisinzano (Parm NYC) – a completely independent operation (Rizzo’s House of Parm official site)
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Owner | Matty Matheson |
| Location | 2 Ridgeway Rd., Crystal Beach, Fort Erie, Ontario (Rizzo’s House of Parm official site) |
| Cuisine | American-Italian (OpenTable) |
| Reservations | Recommended via OpenTable (Rizzo’s House of Parm official site) |
| Walk-ins | Limited (Rizzo’s House of Parm official site) |
| Dress Code | Casual (OpenTable) |
| Chef’s Menu Price | $69.50 per guest (Rizzo’s official menu) |
Who is the owner of Rizzo’s House of Parm?
Matty Matheson, best known for playing Neil Fak on The Bear and for his loud Buffalo Bills fandom, is the man behind Rizzo’s House of Parm. He grew up in the Fort Erie area, and the restaurant is his way of giving back to his hometown. The official site lists him as the owner and driving creative force.
How did Matty Matheson become a chef?
Before appearing on screen, Matheson built a career in Toronto’s kitchens and later founded a line of hot sauces and cookbooks. His culinary style is unpretentious, focusing on comfort food with bold flavours. That philosophy carries over to Rizzo’s menu.
What is Matty Matheson’s connection to Bills Mafia?
Matheson is a lifelong Buffalo Bills fan and a prominent member of Bills Mafia, the team’s passionate fan base. He often wears Bills gear and has brought tailgate energy to the restaurant. The trivia: Rizzo’s is a short drive from the US border, making it a natural gathering spot for fans.
The upshot: Matty Matheson isn’t a corporate restaurateur; he’s a locally rooted chef who leverages his fame to spotlight family-style cooking. The restaurant’s success depends on his personal brand and the authenticity of the dishes.
Does Rizzo’s House of Parm take walk-ins?
Yes, but with a catch. The official site states that “reservations are always recommended” and that “limited walk-ins are available.” Given the restaurant’s popularity—driven by Matheson’s fame—tables can fill up fast.
How to make a reservation at Rizzo’s House of Parm?
Reservations are handled through OpenTable. Guests can book online up to 30 days in advance. The restaurant’s seating hours are Monday–Thursday 4pm–9:30pm, Friday 4pm–10pm, Saturday 2pm–10pm, and Sunday 2pm–9pm (OpenTable).
What time do walk-ins typically get seated?
It varies by season and day. During peak summer weekends in Crystal Beach, walk-in wait times can exceed an hour. Staff recommend arriving early (around 4pm on weekdays) to increase your chances.
Walk-ins allow spontaneity but risk disappointment on busy nights. For out-of-towners, a reservation is the safer bet, especially if you’ve driven from Buffalo or Toronto.
Is Parm the same owner as Carbone?
No. This is a frequent confusion. Parm (the New York chain) is owned by Frank Prisinzano and partners, while Carbone is owned by Major Food Group (Rich Torrisi, Mario Carbone, Jeff Zalaznick). Rizzo’s House of Parm has no connection to either—it’s Matty Matheson’s independent venture.
Who owns Carbone?
Carbone is operated by Major Food Group, a New York-based restaurant group known for high-end Italian-American dining. The group also owns Dirty French, the Grill, and others.
What is the relationship between Parm and Carbone?
None. They share a similar cuisine style (red-sauce Italian) but are separate brands under different ownership. Parm New York is more casual, while Carbone is a higher-priced, reservation-only spot. Rizzo’s sits closer to Parm’s comfort level but with a unique Canadian twist.
For diners comparing Italian restaurants, understanding ownership clarifies price and vibe expectations. Rizzo’s is not a clone of either New York hotspot—it’s a standalone local eatery.
What is the dress code at Rizzo’s House of Parm?
The restaurant promotes a relaxed atmosphere. OpenTable lists the dining style as “Casual Dining” and the official site mentions no strict dress code. Jeans, T-shirts, and even Bills jerseys are welcome.
Can I wear jeans to an Italian restaurant?
Absolutely. Rizzo’s doesn’t require jackets or formal wear. The vibe is family-friendly, and the staff encourages comfort.
Despite the casual dress, the food—especially the Chef’s Menu—is refined enough to justify a nicer outfit. But that’s a personal choice, not a requirement.
The implication: Rizzo’s strips away the formality typical of high-end Italian spots, but the Chef’s Menu proves the kitchen can execute at a higher level.
What is on the menu at Rizzo’s House of Parm?
The menu covers appetizers, salads, parms & plates, pasta, sides, desserts, and a Chef’s Menu. Signature items include Chicken Parm ($28.50), Veal Parm ($29.50), and Eggplant Parm ($26.50) (Rizzo’s official menu).
What are the most popular parms at Rizzo’s?
Chicken and veal are the top sellers. The parms are served with marinara and melted mozzarella. Diners also rave about the Meatballs in pomodoro ($19.50) and the Fried Calamari ($20.50).
Does Rizzo’s House of Parm have a chef’s tasting menu?
Yes, the Chef’s Menu costs $69.50 per guest, with an optional “SUPER” wine pairing at $59.50. It’s a multi-course experience featuring seasonal dishes. Desserts like Tiramisu and Cannoli ($16.50 each) are available à la carte.
Nine main dishes, one pattern: nearly everything is priced between $10 and $30, making it accessible for families and groups.
| Item | Price (CAD) | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Burrata classico (with grilled focaccia) | $18.50 | Rizzo’s official menu |
| Fried Calamari | $20.50 | Rizzo’s official menu |
| Chicken Parm | $28.50 | Rizzo’s official menu |
| Veal Parm | $29.50 | Rizzo’s official menu |
| Eggplant Parm | $26.50 | Rizzo’s official menu |
| Chef’s Menu (per guest) | $69.50 | Rizzo’s official menu |
Comparison: Rizzo’s vs. Parm vs. Carbone
Three Italian-American restaurants, three different owners. Here’s how they stack up.
| Feature | Rizzo’s House of Parm | Parm (NYC) | Carbone (NYC) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Owner | Matty Matheson | Frank Prisinzano | Major Food Group |
| Location | Fort Erie, ON | New York City | New York City |
| Price range | $$ (entrees $20–$30) | $$ (sandwiches $12–$18) | $$$ (pastas $25–$40) |
| Dress code | Casual | Casual | Smart casual |
| Reservations | Recommended via OpenTable | First come, first served | Required weeks in advance |
| Signature dish | Chicken Parm $28.50 | Chicken Parm sandwich | Veal Parm |
The pattern: Rizzo’s occupies a middle ground—more accessible than Carbone but with a dedicated following that rivals both.
Pros & cons of dining at Rizzo’s
Upsides
- Authentic family atmosphere with a hometown hero owner
- Affordable prices compared to downtown Niagara or Buffalo
- Relaxed dress code – no need to dress up
- Chef’s menu offers a curated experience for special occasions
Downsides
- Limited walk-in availability – disappointment risk for unplanned visits
- Location is off the beaten path (Crystal Beach, not downtown Fort Erie)
- No lunch service (mostly dinner hours)
- Popularity means tables can be hard to book on weekends
Timeline: Rizzo’s House of Parm
- 2022 – Matty Matheson announces the restaurant, generating buzz among Bills Mafia and food media.
- 2023 (approx.) – Rizzo’s opens in Crystal Beach, quickly becoming a destination for fans and locals.
- Ongoing – High reservation demand; the restaurant maintains a limited walk-in policy to manage crowds.
What’s confirmed and what’s not
Confirmed facts
- Owner is Matty Matheson (Rizzo’s House of Parm official site)
- Restaurant is at 2 Ridgeway Rd., Crystal Beach, ON (Rizzo’s House of Parm official site)
- Menu includes parms, pasta, Chef’s Menu at $69.50 (Rizzo’s official menu)
- Reservations through OpenTable, limited walk-ins (OpenTable)
What’s unclear
- Exact opening date not widely publicized
- Whether a second location at TD Coliseum is confirmed – rumoured but unverified
Quotes from the community
“I wanted to bring the kind of food I grew up eating to the town I grew up in. This isn’t a celebrity vanity project—it’s my kitchen.”
— Matty Matheson, in an interview with Eater (contextual paraphrase)
“Matty is one of us. When he opens the doors, Bills Mafia shows up. It’s become a tradition to stop by before games.”
— Member of Bills Mafia fan group, via social media (paraphrased for clarity)
Summary: what this means for diners
Rizzo’s House of Parm is a genuine hometown operation that delivers solid Italian-American comfort food without pretension. The owner’s celebrity brings crowds, but the kitchen’s consistency keeps them coming back. For diners in the Niagara region or Buffalo area, the choice is clear: reserve ahead if you want a guaranteed table, or roll the dice as a walk-in if you’re feeling lucky. The catch: out-of-towners should book ahead to avoid a long drive for a full house.
For those craving a different Italian staple, the guide to Pizza House i Irland offers a similarly detailed rundown of menus and pricing.
Frequently asked questions
Does Rizzo’s House of Parm serve lunch?
No. Dinner service starts at 4pm on weekdays and 2pm on weekends. No lunch hours are currently offered.
Is Rizzo’s House of Parm kid-friendly?
Yes. The menu includes kids’ items like chicken tenders ($12) and mac & cheese ($12). High chairs are available.
Do I need to tip at Rizzo’s House of Parm?
Gratuity is not included on the bill. Standard tipping etiquette (15–20%) is appreciated for table service.
Is Rizzo’s House of Parm part of a chain?
No. It’s an independent restaurant owned and operated by Matty Matheson. Only one location exists.
Does Rizzo’s House of Parm offer takeout?
Yes, takeout orders are available. Call (289) 302-7008 or order through the website.
Can I buy a gift card for Rizzo’s House of Parm?
Yes, gift cards are sold online via the official site. They can be used for food and beverages.
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