Franchising

Buona, Rainbow Cone expanding to Milwaukee

Photo: Buona

January 20, 2025

Residents of Milwaukee will soon be able to have a taste of Chicago when The Buona Companies, the family owned company behind Buona and The Original Rainbow Cone, open a store under the direction of restaurateurs and Chicago natives Karl Kulhanek and Joe Marchionna.

The Buona menu features Chicago's original Italian beef, meatball and sausage sandwiches, as well as burgers, fresh pasta dishes, Chicago-style dogs, salads, chicken sandwiches and more.

The Original Rainbow Cone is home to a sliced creation comprised of slices of chocolate, strawberry, Palmer House (New York Vanilla with cherries and walnuts), pistachio and orange sherbet.

Familiar with both brands and their menu items, Kulhanek and Marchionna, who were introduced to each other by the family behind Buona, were impressed by the eateries' loyal followings and commitment to preserving the time-honored methods and recipes for their signature offerings. Kulhanek owns multiple businesses, including a protein bar kitchen and distribution company, and Marchionna has cultivated 20 years of experience working in the restaurant industry.

Alongside its expansion into Milwaukee, The Buona Companies has initiated a nationwide franchising program that has resulted in development agreements in Texas, Florida, Michigan, Tennessee, Indiana, Arizona and California. The parent of the two fast casual brands is looking to award franchise investment opportunities with qualified franchise partners throughout the United States with a focus on growth in Arizona, California, Florida, Ohio, Michigan, Tennessee and Texas.