New global pizza brand arrives in Hungary: Dodo Pizza to open its first restaurant in Budapest

Dodo Pizza has announced its entry into the Hungarian market through a strategic master franchise agreement with Pizza Me, one of the country’s leading pizza slice bar operators. The first Dodo Pizza restaurant is set to open in Budapest, marking the brand’s official launch in Hungary as its 12th European country within a global network of 26 markets.

Dodo Pizza in Budapest, Hungary

Founded in 2013, Pizza Me has grown into one of Hungary’s most established pizza slice bar brands. Today, the company is owned and operated by Eran and Victor Friedman, who oversee its strategic development and expansion. Pizza Me operates more than 30 units nationwide. By becoming the master franchisee of Dodo Pizza, the company next to its current brand is entering the delivery-focused segment while leveraging its existing production, logistics, and operational infrastructure. Under the agreement, the master franchisee plans to open 10 Dodo Pizza restaurants within the first three years, with a long-term target of 30 locations over the next decade. The rollout will begin in Budapest, focusing on dense urban areas to ensure operational efficiency and delivery coverage.

Hungary borders several markets where Dodo Pizza already has operating more than 20 restaurants, including Romania, Serbia, Croatia, and Slovenia. The market serves 9.7 million residents and approximately 15 million tourists annually and features a competitive QSR environment with a strong presence of international and local brands.

Under the master franchise model, the franchisee is responsible for building and developing business in Hungary, supported by Dodo Pizza’s technology platform, brand metrics and operating frameworks. The menu will be adapted to local tastes while maintaining consistent international standards of quality and efficiency. The first Budapest locations will serve as flagship stores, showcasing Dodo Pizza’s core offering, including handcrafted pizzas, appetisers, and desserts made with fresh ingredients. Future locations will combine dine-in service with a strong delivery focus and digital ordering.

“What attracted us to Dodo Pizza was the strength of the concept. It is a delivery-first brand designed to scale efficiently while maintaining product quality. Its technology, processes, and local adaptability make the model well suited to the Hungarian market,” said Eran Friedman, Dodo Pizza Master Franchisee in Hungary.