Twin Trees History: A Syracuse Family Tradition Since 1957

You know that feeling when you walk into a restaurant and it just feels like home? For generations of Syracuse locals, that place has been Twin Trees. What started as a tiny pizzeria in 1957 has blossomed into a local institution, with locations all over Central New York. But here's the thing—every single one is still run by the same family that flipped the first pizza dough over six decades ago.

The Beginning of Twin Trees

Picture this: It's 1957. Elvis is on the radio, poodle skirts are in style, and two brothers—Don and Joe Rescignano (who later went by Ross)—decide to open a little pizza joint on Avery Avenue. Back then, they probably had no idea they were starting something that would outlast disco, the internet, and even the rise of food delivery apps.

As the boys grew older, they joined the family business. But by the late 1960s, with Don joining the Navy and Ron heading off to college, Louis remained in Syracuse, working closely with his parents. Business was booming—so much so that they were turning customers away.

Expansion of Twin Trees Too and Twin Trees 3 (1970s)

Recognizing the need for more space—especially to accommodate the bowling teams they sponsored—the family seized an opportunity when Tommy Delvecchio ("Del") offered them his restaurant. This became Twin Trees Too! on Milton Avenue, which Don and Ron eventually took over.

The family's entrepreneurial spirit didn't stop there. In 1978, they purchased the Coconut Shell in North Syracuse, reopening it as Twin Trees 3 on October 4th of that year. Louis moved to this location, where he still works today alongside his wife, Bonnie, and their son Jeff.

Twin Trees: A Growing Family Legacy

Today, Twin Trees is more than just a restaurant—it's a family tradition. Every location is owned and operated by a member of the Rescignano (Ross) family, ensuring the same quality and dedication that started it all. Here's where you can find them:

• Twin Trees (Avery Ave) – The original, still run by Don Ross.

• Twin Trees Too! (Milton Ave) – Operated by Ron's sons, Dan and Ron Jr., his granddaughter Taylor, and their wives, Jess and Jen.

• Twin Trees 3 (Route 11, North Syracuse) – Managed by Louis, Bonnie, and their son Jeff.

• Twin Trees Pizza (East Syracuse, W. Manlius St.) – Owned by Louis' son Luke and his sons Marc and Nick.

• Twin Trees 57 (Liverpool) – Run by Ron, his wife Jen, and daughter Rylan.

• Twin Trees Pizza (Baldwinsville) – Operated by Don and his wife Kara.

• Twin Trees Pizza (Fayetteville) – Owned by Dan and his wife Jessica.

• Twin Trees Cicero – Managed by Jeff and his wife Erika, with their three sons helping out.

• Twin Trees Camillus (Route 5) – Another venture by Dan and Jessica.

• Twin Trees at the NY State Fair – A seasonal favorite, run by Jeff and Dan.

Built to Last: The Twin Trees Legacy

For 65 years, Twin Trees has been more than just a restaurant—it's a testament to family, perseverance, and community. From its modest beginnings in 1957 to its expansion across Central New York, the Ross (Rescignano) family has kept their legacy alive through each generation.

As Louis Ross puts it: "We've been around for 65 years, and we hope to be around for many more!"

If you've ever enjoyed a slice at Twin Trees, you're not just a customer—you're part of their story. Here's to many more years of great food, family values, and Syracuse tradition.