BIGOI – The Pasta Fast Food Chain of Northern Italy

The United States has the largest fast food industry in the world, with many American fast food chains located in Italy.  McDonald’s, Burger King, and Kentucky Fried Chicken are examples of some American fast food restaurants spread throughout Italy.  This may not come as a surprise to Italian Enthusiasts, but what is surprising is the fact that Italians have been serving fast food since way back to the days of Ancient Rome, according to British archeologist, Dr. Penelope Allison.  Between its long-standing history of fast food, and its renowned expertise in pasta-making, it’s no wonder why Italy now offers its own unique fast food chain for pasta: Bigoi.

Bigoi is actually quite simple, as fast food chains should be.  It’s basically just fresh egg pasta served in a cup, with a selection of about ten different sauces such as bolognese, pesto, and even nero di seppia.  The pasta is always fresh, and made after the traditional pasta of the Veneto region called Bigoli.  The spirit of Bigoi mixes the street food concept with quality ingredients.

From my own observation, the Bigoi location in Padova is very popular.  The small store was packed with hungry Italians, mostly on-the-go, and even outside the store many Italians were hanging out in the street and sitting on curbs eating their cup of fresh pasta.  Surely, in a country where pasta is supreme, the idea of a pasta fast food chain makes perfect sense.  There are also franchising opportunities for the Bigoi fast food chain as referenced on their website.  At this time, the locations are only in the Veneto and Lobardia regions ranging from Milan to the west and Venice to the east, which means there is opportunity for growth.