Pasta Pomodoro is a chain of approximately 45 "Fast-Casual, Fresh Italian" restaurants in California and Arizona, founded in 1994 by Adriano Paganini, who was born in a small village in Northern Italy. Adriano studied culinary arts in Varese.Adriano's previous accolades include:Apprentice to the world famous Paul Bocuse, France.Executive chef at London's Hyde Park Hotel, London, EnglandHead Chief at Donatello, San Francisco, USA (1991)Founder Café Adriano (a modern uptown Italian bistro with a menu that changes daily), San Francisco, USAPasta Pomodoros are normally located in strip malls, throughout California. They offer a contemporary dining atmosphere while providing quick food and a low price. Diners will know they are in an Italian restaurant, as they are served complimentary artisan bread and Pesto dipping sauce while they wait for their food.The restaurants average about $1.2 million in annual sales with an average check ranging from $9 to $14. They feature an open kitchen and serve seafood, meat and vegetable pastas, grilled fish, rotisserie chicken, salads, sandwiches, homemade desserts, and wine.Wendy's International, Inc. purchased 25% (fully diluted) of Pasta Pomodoro in 2002.