Austin, Texas-based Detroit-style pizza concept Via 313 has named Kiplan Welsch president. Welsch has worked in restaurant operations for much of his career, most recently serving as Via 313’s vice president of operations, a position he’s held since 2023. In that role, he oversaw the company’s growth strategy and leadership development.
Welsch started his career at Chili’s in 2002. He then served at P.F. Chang’s as an operating partner before serving 10 years at BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse, working his way up to area vice president. Prior to joining Via 313, Welsch was vice president of Bluestone Hospitality, overseeing 34 restaurants and five area directors.
"I am honored for the opportunity to lead Via 313 as its president and am eager to maintain the incredible momentum we have built as a brand,” Welsch said in a statement. “My ultimate goal is to protect the culture and the integrity of the brand that (brothers) Brandon and Zane (Hunt) have built, as well as keep the brand moving forward with innovation, technology, and hospitality.”
Welsch takes the leadership role as the concept continues to grow, now counting 21 locations across five major metropolitan areas in Texas, Utah, and Colorado.
“We have the utmost trust and respect for Kip and the way he is leading Via 313,” Zane Hunt said in a statement. “Not only does he understand restaurant operations, but he understands the heart of Via 313 and what makes our culture unique. My brother and I are grateful to have his high caliber of experience and character at the helm.”
Via 313 was founded in 2011 in a non-descript trailer in Austin, Texas, by Detroit-born brothers Brandon and Zane Hunt. In 2020, Via 313 partnered with Savory Fund, a private equity firm that invests in emerging restaurant concepts, including Swig, Mo’ Bettahs, Houston TX Hot Chicken, and more.
“We’ve watched Kip lead Via 313 with undeniable strength and care,” said Andrew K. Smith, managing director of Savory Fund. “Via 313 is leading the Detroit-style pizza casual dining revolution, and Kip is the right leader at the right time. We’re thrilled to work alongside him while we expand Via 313 into more markets across the country.”
Contact Alicia Kelso at [email protected]
