For those in Franklin longing for an upscale Italian dining experience, the wait is over. Iozzo’s on Jefferson has officially opened its doors, bringing with it the rich history, authentic flavors and impeccable service that have made its Indianapolis counterpart a destination restaurant for years.
At the helm of this exciting expansion is Katie Harris, owner and founder of the Iozzo’s Restaurant Group, which includes the well-known Iozzo’s Garden of Italy in Indianapolis and now Iozzo’s on Jefferson in Franklin. She also produces her line of limoncello, which is served in both locations and can also be found at local liquor retailers such as Total Wine & More.
Harris had long envisioned an expansion, recognizing that her original location was often at capacity – a wonderful challenge to have. But it wasn’t just about business growth; it was about community. Being a Johnson County native, Harris saw a significant gap in Franklin’s dining scene. The downtown area lacked a high-end, sit-down Italian restaurant, and she knew that had to change.
That vision led her to discussions with the Franklin Development Corporation and Mayor Steve Barnett, both of whom embraced the idea with enthusiasm. The Franklin Development Corporation suggested a location on East Jefferson Street, and after purchasing and bringing the building up to code, Harris and her team took over, designing an elegant space that blends classic Italian charm with modern sophistication.
The first-floor dining room, bar, and kitchen are now complete, offering a warm, intimate setting reminiscent of Iozzo’s Garden of Italy. Future plans include completing the second story for additional dining and event space, a testament to the early success of this new venture.
No great restaurant is complete without a masterful chef, and Harris knew she needed someone exceptional to lead the Franklin location. Enter Chef Kathy Jones, director of culinary operations for Iozzo’s Restaurant Group.
Jones has been with Harris since the beginning, briefly stepping away before returning to help launch the Franklin location. Her expertise in multiunit operations, training and development has been instrumental in bringing Iozzo’s on Jefferson to life.
Joining her is Chef Brian Dunn, a 33-year industry veteran who describes working at Iozzo’s as the most unique and rewarding experience of his life. Dunn was chosen not just for his culinary skill, but also for his passion and leadership, ensuring that every dish leaving the kitchen upholds the Iozzo family’s legacy.
Their team has expanded the traditional Italian menu to include premium steaks, recognizing the demand for a fine-dining steakhouse in Franklin. Steak and pasta are a classic combination, reminiscent of traditional Italian steakhouses, and Iozzo’s delivers on both fronts with in-house, freshly made pasta and expertly cooked steaks.
The lunch menu has also been expanded, offering guests a variety of lighter but equally decadent options. For those who want to bring a taste of Iozzo’s home, the restaurant sells its fresh, house-made pasta for carry-out, available cooked or uncooked.
The story of Iozzo’s begins with Santora “Fred” Iozzo, an Italian immigrant who arrived in the United States at age 17. After working on railroads in Boston and Ohio, he settled in Indianapolis in 1924, eventually opening Naples Grill in 1930, later renamed Iozzo’s Garden of Italy.
The restaurant quickly became a regional hotspot, but in 1940 an unfortunate incident forced its closure. Despite this setback, the Iozzo family’s culinary traditions never faded. In July 2009, Harris revived her great-grandfather’s legacy, reopening Iozzo’s Garden of Italy in Indianapolis. The restaurant has since thrived, with guests traveling from all over to experience its rich history and flavors. Now, that same legacy is thriving in Franklin.
At Iozzo’s on Jefferson, diners can experience generations-old recipes passed down through the Iozzo family. Signature dishes like house-made pasta and meatballs (crafted with veal, pork and beef), wedding soup featuring the same legendary meatballs, and five-cheese lasagna with Alfredo and Bolognese sauce, showcase the authenticity that sets Iozzo’s apart.
Even the signature seasoned tomatoes served with olive oil and bread before each meal have deep roots, originating from Harris’s great-uncle, Vincent, whose photograph, along with those of Fred Iozzo and the original restaurant, adorns the walls.
From the moment guests step inside, Iozzo’s on Jefferson transports them to an upscale Italian eatery, complete with dim lighting, romantic ambiance and the soothing sounds of classic crooners playing in the background.
The clinking of glassware, laughter of satisfied guests and impeccable presentation of each dish make for an experience that feels straight out of a major city – yet it all happens right in the heart of Franklin.
Jones notes that the opening weeks have been “flawless,” something she says is rare in the restaurant world. Dunn recalls the excitement and energy of the opening night, a moment when the entire team realized their hard work had paid off.
Their hiring approach has also been unique, prioritizing personality and passion over experience. This ensures a strong, driven team that shares the restaurant’s vision. Many of the staff trained at the Indianapolis location before launching in Franklin, helping to create a seamless transition and consistent experience across both locations.
No fine dining experience is complete without an exceptional drink menu, and Bartender Davin Hill takes pride in crafting high-quality cocktails that complement the cuisine. One standout is The Jefferson, featuring Jefferson bourbon, brown sugar simple syrup, walnut bitters, a Luxardo cherry, an orange peel garnish, and a large ice cube – a drink as rich and refined as the restaurant itself.
Justin Anderson, part owner and director of hospitality, has a personal connection to Franklin, having graduated from Franklin College.
“The Franklin location was an easy choice,” Anderson says. “I’ve always known how amazing this town was and continues to be. They have welcomed us with open arms and supported us every step of the way. The commitment to family that holds true in this amazing community is the backbone of the Iozzo name and legacy.”
That family-first mentality extends beyond the ownership and into the restaurant’s daily operations. The staff and chefs take immense pride in their work, ensuring that each guest leaves feeling not just satisfied, but truly cared for.
For more info, go to iozzosonjefferson.com.
