Authentic Neapolitan Cuisine with Global Acclaim and Local Heart
400 Gradi is a celebrated restaurant brand founded in 2008, known for its authentic Italian menu and award-winning Neapolitan pizza. The business operates full-service restaurants under the name ‘400 Gradi’, developed by founder Johnny Di Francesco. From a single flagship venue in Brunswick, the brand has grown internationally, expanding across Australia and beyond.
400 Gradi is committed to honouring Italy’s culinary traditions while embracing innovation in hospitality. Backed by the recognition of the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana (AVPN), the brand serves handcrafted pizza cooked at 400 degrees for 90 seconds, fresh pasta made by hand, and a curated menu of antipasti, desserts, and cocktails. With six franchisor-operated locations and franchising now open, 400 Gradi represents a premium opportunity for operators passionate about Italian cuisine and high-end dining.
Why Choose 400 Gradi?
Johnny Di Francesco’s story is deeply woven into the 400 Gradi experience. His journey began at age 12 when he got his first job making pizza, driven by the desire to buy a pair of Nike shoes his family couldn’t afford. That first pizza paid for the shoes — and ignited a lifelong passion.
“Making pizza is a sport, an artform and a science. It’s physical, it’s a process and it’s alchemy.” – Johnny Di Francesco
After multiple trips to Italy, Johnny returned with the goal of bringing traditional Neapolitan pizza to Australians. Cooked at 400 degrees, the pizzas were an instant success. Over time, the brand expanded to include pasta, antipasti, desserts, and a comprehensive beverage program.
Johnny has authored two cookbooks and appeared on global television, all while expanding 400 Gradi into a household name. Together with his wife Maria and a devoted team, the Gradi family has created multiple brands offering a consistent Italian dining experience.
“I fell in love with making pizza at a young age and it’s more technical than people think. Flour and water — two of the simplest things. When you use them together in the right way, with consideration to factors like texture and temperature — magic is created.” – Johnny Di Francesco
400 Gradi adheres to the guidelines of the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana. Johnny was the first ever Australian inducted into the AVPN and now serves as Principal of Australasia for the association.
The brand has earned global recognition, including the title of World’s Best Pizza for its margherita, and has been named Best Pizzeria in Oceania three years running.
Fast Facts
Industry: Professional, Scientific and Technical Services (Hospitality and Restaurant Services)
Franchise Model: Full-service Italian restaurant with licensed dine-in and takeaway
Years Operating in Australia: 15+
Franchisor-Owned Units: 6
Current Locations: SA, VIC
Investment Details
Estimated Setup Cost: $2,844,300 – $4,244,600
Refundable Deposit: $25,000 + GST
Required to show the Franchisee’s commitment to the Gradi Business Franchise in a particular location. The deposit is fully refundable up until the prospective franchisee requests the franchisor to provide the franchise agreement and disclosure documents. After that point, the franchisor will refund the initial franchise fee minus the retention fee within thirty (30) days of termination.
Legal Costs: $5,000 + GST
Payable to cover the franchisor's legal fees in relation to the negotiation, preparation and execution of the Franchise Agreement and associated documents. Held by the franchisor or their lawyers.
Ongoing Franchise Payments:
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Fixed ongoing payment: $250,000 annually
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Marketing levy: 1% of monthly revenue
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Additional potential costs: Up to $17,900 covering transfer fees, renewal fees, legal costs on surrender or termination, and breach notice fees
Other Annual Payments: $2,128,876 – $2,459,300
This includes operational costs but excludes those that are percentage-based on revenue or cannot be estimated.
Who Should Apply?
400 Gradi is suited to hospitality professionals who are passionate about authentic Italian cuisine, want to uphold globally recognised quality standards, and have the capacity to manage a large-scale, high-investment restaurant. This franchise is not for the casual operator — it is designed for individuals or groups who want to represent one of Australia’s most prestigious Italian food brands with integrity and excellence.
Ready to Bring the World's Best Pizza to Your City?
Join an award-winning Italian franchise led by Australia’s most recognised Neapolitan pizzaiolo and backed by global credentials.
👉 Send us a message to learn more and submit an expression of interest.