LaRosa's Pizzeria

American pizzeria chain based in Cincinnati, Ohio

LaRosa's Pizzeria is a chain of pizzerias serving the Cincinnati metropolitan area and beyond. Founded in 1954 by Buddy LaRosa, the company has grown to become a staple in the region, known for its distinctive pizza and Italian-American cuisine.

History

Error creating thumbnail:

LaRosa's Pizzeria logo

LaRosa's Pizzeria was established in 1954 by Donald "Buddy" LaRosa, along with partners Richard "Mick" Bernard, Mike Soldano, and Frank "Head" Serraino. The first location was on Boudinot Avenue in the Westwood neighborhood of Cincinnati. Buddy LaRosa, inspired by his Aunt Dena's recipes, aimed to bring authentic Italian flavors to the local community.

The pizzeria quickly gained popularity, leading to the opening of additional locations throughout the Cincinnati area. By the 1970s, LaRosa's had become a household name, known for its family-friendly atmosphere and commitment to quality ingredients.

Menu

LaRosa's Pizzeria offers a wide variety of menu items, with a focus on pizza, pasta, calzones, and hoagies. The signature item is the "Buddy's Deluxe" pizza, which features a blend of provolone and mozzarella cheeses, pepperoni, sausage, and a special sauce made from a secret family recipe.

In addition to pizza, LaRosa's serves a range of Italian-American dishes, including spaghetti, lasagna, and ravioli. The menu also includes salads, appetizers, and desserts, catering to a diverse clientele.

Locations

Error creating thumbnail:

LaRosa's Pizzeria location

As of 2023, LaRosa's Pizzeria operates over 60 locations across Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana. The majority of these are concentrated in the Greater Cincinnati area, with additional locations in Dayton and Columbus.

LaRosa's has also expanded through a franchise model, allowing local entrepreneurs to open and operate their own LaRosa's locations. This expansion strategy has helped the brand maintain its regional identity while reaching new markets.

Community Involvement

LaRosa's Pizzeria is known for its active involvement in the community. The company supports local schools, sports teams, and charitable organizations through fundraising events and sponsorships. Buddy LaRosa himself has been recognized for his philanthropic efforts, particularly in the area of youth sports.

Related Pages

• Pizza in the United States
• List of pizza chains of the United States
• Italian-American cuisine