'The Rivalution has begun,' pizzeria celebrates one year
by JESSICA L. FINCH Associate Editor

An appetite for art and a passion for pizza, have combined into a career for Chris Perrotta, 28.

Perrotta, co-owner of Riva's Pizza, and business partner Jordan Abrams, 23, celebrated the pizzeria's one-year anniversary at the beginning of summer.

A former art director for the Martin Group, Perrotta has combined his skills in advertising with cooking. He designed the restaurant's posters, one of which boasts, "Great pizza is only the beginning," surrounded by colorful art and characters.

"I take pride in the creativity; it makes us stand out, and the slogans give a clear message what we are about," he said.

The eye-catching pieces complement a recipe that is well known in the Western New York area. Joe Hereth, owner of the original Riva's Pizza Subs & Wings at 3488 Walden Ave., in Depew, is also co-owner of the Williamsville location.

Established more than 30 years ago, the first location has proved a staple in the area, Perrotta said.

The second location has continued some of the traditions and started its own. In addition to pizzeria favorites of pizza, wings and chicken fingers, Riva's offers healthy wrap and salad choices.

A Williamsville native, Perrotta knows that Buffalo knows good pizza. With a well-known recipe, the next step was to find the perfect spot for the pizzeria.

The owners settled on 408 Evans St., in the Evanstown Plaza because it is accessible to main thoroughfares but still off the beaten path.

As is the story with any new endeavor, the owners of Riva's were off to a "crazy" start in 2006, Perrotta said, but every day has been easier.

Having lived in Western New York his entire life, Perrotta said it's important to Riva's to give back to the community that has given so much to him. The restaurant makes donations to fundraisers and raffles.

Riva's is open from 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 10:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday; and noon to 10 p.m. Sunday. For information, call 633-5777.