New Pastabilities: Fazoli's opens near Woodburn Premium Outlets

Breadstick lovers, be forewarned: a serous new contender has emerged in Woodburn.

Lexington, Kentucky-based quick service Italian restaurant Fazoli's has opened its first location in Oregon thanks to franchise owners Jim and Michelle Pavelek. 

The couple ate at a Fazoli's location while on a family vacation to the Grand Canyon. 

"We were really impressed by the food and thought it was a great bargain for the price," said Jim. 

"I held on to the brochure for 6 years and eventually decided to call ... we're thrilled to have the first one in the Pacific Northwest." 

The new restaurant is located at 105 Arney Road in Woodburn, near the entrance to Woodburn Premium Outlets.

The chain first started in Lexington in 1988 and now has 217 locations in 26 states, including one in Chino Hills, CA, but no other outlets in Washington or Oregon. 

Jim Pavelek, who is originally from the Woodburn-Mount Angel area, is confident that the Fazoli's concept will find favor in Oregon. 

In particular, he hopes mall traffic will appreciate the Fazoli's servce model, one that combines fast casual counter service with relaxing table service. Order your meal at the front counter, pick your seat and your meal will be served on real plates with real flatware. 

In addition to those cult-favorite unlimited garlic breadsticks, visitors can expect a diverse menu of Italian-American favorites: pasta, sandwiches, specialty salads and a limited pizza menu. Pre-selected "Family Meal" options simplify family dining.

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A drive through means visitors can enjoy Fazoli's either as a sit-down meal, or one to go and Pavelek is hopeful these are dishes that will travel well. 

Italan food, he said, "can retain it's temperature, so it's ideal for people who want to pick up a meal to take home." 

"We pride ourselves on that," he said, echoing the company tagline, "on fast, fresh, and friendly service." 

If you go 

Where: 105 N Arney Road Woodburn

Phone: (503) 902-4220

Hours: Sunday through Thursday 10:30 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.; Friday and Saturday 10:30 a.m. - 11:00 p.m.

Information: www.fazolis.com

Emily Teel is the Food & Drink Editor at the Statesman Journal. Contact her at eteel@statesmanjournal.com, Facebook, or Twitter. See what she's cooking and where she's eating this week on Instagram: @emily_teel