Pizza places have a tough crowd to win over in Rhode Island, where locals know their Italian food inside and out.
But Casa Della Luce in Westerly managed to do exactly that since opening in 2010.
Founded by Mark Lacz at just 25 years old, this strip mall gem has become a local favorite by doing what many restaurants claim but few execute well – making everything from scratch. 🍕
How Casa Della Luce won locals’ hearts
Casa Della Luce earned its reputation the old-fashioned way: through word-of-mouth praise from satisfied customers who discovered something special.
The restaurant’s commitment to fresh, homemade pasta prepared daily in their live-action kitchen set them apart from competitors who relied on pre-made ingredients.
Owner Mark Lacz and his team understood that Rhode Islanders have high standards when it comes to Italian cuisine, so they focused on authentic preparation methods and quality ingredients rather than shortcuts.
The restaurant’s community involvement also played a crucial role in winning hearts throughout Westerly.
Since 2010, Casa Della Luce has made every effort to support local charities and The Greater Westerly Chamber of Commerce.
This genuine commitment to giving back, combined with their award-winning pasta and chowder, created a loyal following that continues to grow.
The constant stream of takeout customers mentioned in early reviews showed that locals had discovered what would become their go-to spot for authentic Italian-American cuisine. 🏆
Food Highlights
- Buffalo Chicken Pizza: A perfect marriage of chicken, carrots, celery, and shredded mozzarella topped with house-made blue cheese dressing and hot sauce that delivers just the right amount of heat without overwhelming the palate.
- The Westerly: A signature creation featuring local soupy, homemade meatballs, vinegar peppers, and oregano over their Casa pizza sauce and mozzarella cheese – a true tribute to local flavors that showcases regional ingredients.
- White Clam Pizza: Made with roasted garlic oil, oregano, crushed red pepper, chopped ocean clams, and Parmesan cheese, this pie demonstrates their commitment to fresh seafood and traditional preparation methods.
- Casa Special: Their ultimate combination pizza loaded with pepperoni, homemade meatballs, sausage, peppers, mushrooms, and onions over Casa pizza sauce and mozzarella cheese – a hearty option that satisfies even the biggest appetites.
- Soupy Pizza: Featuring local soupy with onions, garlic, oregano, Casa pizza sauce, and mozzarella cheese, this pizza celebrates Rhode Island’s unique soupy tradition with authentic local preparation.
- Spinach Artichoke Pizza: A creative combination of spinach, ricotta cheese, garlic, chopped artichoke hearts, and shredded mozzarella that offers a lighter yet satisfying option for vegetarian diners.
Atmosphere
Casa Della Luce creates a bright, casual, welcoming environment that immediately puts guests at ease.
The recent renovation updated tables and booths while pale hues work with natural lighting to brighten the comfortable dining room.
The open kitchen design allows diners to watch trained chefs preparing fresh dishes, adding excitement and transparency to the dining experience.
Outdoor patio seating provides a relaxing alternative during warmer months, while the interior maintains a cozy atmosphere perfect for family dinners or casual meals with friends.
The constant activity and mouthwatering aromas of fresh garlic create an authentic Italian bistro experience that feels both professional and homey. ✨
Bottom Line
- Authentic Experience: Hand-tossed New York style pizza and fresh pasta made daily in their live-action kitchen provide genuine Italian-American dining
- Local Favorite Status: Ranked #6 of 129 restaurants in Westerly on TripAdvisor with consistently positive reviews from locals and visitors
- Community Commitment: Strong local support through charitable contributions and community involvement since 2010 shows genuine care for Westerly
- Proven Track Record: Over 50 years of combined culinary team experience ensures consistent quality and authentic preparation methods
- Convenient Options: Pizza by the slice daily plus full delivery service and catering for groups from 6 to 300 guests 🎯
Address: 105 Franklin Street, Westerly, RI 02891
📞 (401) 637-4575
🕔 Sun-Thu: 10:30 AM–9:00 PM, Fri-Sat: 10:30 AM–10:00 PM