Smith & Wollensky parent group Danu Partners acquires Nick Varano’s Strega Group to form PPX Hospitality Brands
After acquiring eight-unit steakhouse chain Smith & Wollensky Restaurant Group in 2016, Irish investment firm Danu Partners, has completed its restaurant portfolio with the acquisition of the Boston-based Strega Group from restaurateur Nick Varano. With the addition of the Italian chophouse chain, Danu Partners has launched a new hospitality group called PPX Hospitality Brands, which will be operating out of Medford, Mass. PPX Hospitality will now be led by Smith & Wollensky CEO and president Michael Feighery, who will oversee the 16 PPX brands while remaining in his current role.
“Through the creation of PPX Hospitality Brands and with Smith & Wollensky’s commitment to genuine hospitality and quality, we will bring additional support systems, growth strategy and a team of resources to drive the Strega brand to new heights,” Feighery said in a statement. “We are committed to investing in The Strega Group’s team members, brand awareness, facilities and the customer experience throughout greater Boston.”
