Our Story
From humble beginnings to pizza perfection - discover the passion behind every slice
Where It All Began
In the heart of Washington DC, a dream was born from a simple belief: that great pizza brings people together. What started as a small family recipe passed down through generations has evolved into Pizza luce - a testament to authentic flavors and genuine hospitality.
Our founder, inspired by traditional wood-fired cooking methods from Italy, embarked on a journey to recreate those unforgettable flavors. After years of perfecting recipes and sourcing the finest ingredients, Pizza luce opened its doors with a promise: to serve not just pizza, but experiences that create lasting memories.
Today, every pizza that emerges from our wood-fired ovens carries with it the same passion and dedication that started this incredible journey. We're not just serving food; we're sharing our story, one slice at a time.
Our Mission & Vision
Crafting exceptional experiences through authentic flavors and genuine connections
Our Mission
To create exceptional dining experiences by combining traditional wood-fired cooking techniques with the freshest local ingredients, fostering community connections through the universal language of great food.
Our Vision
To be the cornerstone of our community, where families gather, friendships are forged, and every meal becomes a celebration of authentic Italian culinary artistry.
Our Journey
Milestones that shaped our story
2018 - The Beginning
Pizza luce was founded with a simple vision: to bring authentic wood-fired pizza to Washington DC. Our first oven was built by hand, following traditional Italian methods.
2019 - Community Love
Within our first year, we became a neighborhood favorite. Word spread about our authentic flavors and warm hospitality, leading to featured reviews in local publications.
2021 - Expansion
Growing demand led us to expand our kitchen and seating area. We also launched our signature catering services, bringing Pizza luce to special events across the city.
2023 - Innovation
We introduced our mobile wood-fired oven for events and launched our farm-to-table initiative, partnering with local farms for the freshest ingredients.
2024 - Recognition
Pizza luce received the "Best Pizza in DC" award from the Local Food Awards, cementing our reputation as the premier destination for authentic wood-fired pizza.
Meet Our Team
The passionate people behind every perfect pizza
Marco Rossi
Head Chef & Founder
Born in Naples, Marco brings 20+ years of authentic Italian cooking experience. His passion for traditional wood-fired techniques is the heart of our kitchen.
Sarah Chen
Operations Manager
Sarah's attention to detail and customer service expertise ensures every guest feels like family. She oversees daily operations with warmth and efficiency.
Tony DeAngelo
Master Pizza Chef
Tony's artistry with dough stretching and wood-fired cooking creates the perfect crust every time. His dedication to craft is evident in every pizza.
Isabella Martinez
Guest Experience Lead
Isabella's infectious smile and knowledge of our menu make every dining experience memorable. She leads our front-of-house team with passion.
Our Values
The principles that guide everything we do
Authenticity
We honor traditional Italian cooking methods, using time-tested recipes and techniques passed down through generations. Every pizza is crafted with respect for authentic flavors.
Quality
From San Marzano tomatoes to locally-sourced mozzarella, we source only the finest ingredients. Our wood-fired ovens reach perfect temperatures for optimal flavor development.
Community
Pizza luce is more than a restaurant - we're a gathering place where neighbors become friends. We actively support local farmers, suppliers, and community initiatives.
Excellence
We pursue perfection in every detail, from dough preparation to customer service. Our team's dedication to excellence ensures consistently exceptional experiences.
Join Our Story
At Pizza luce, every guest becomes part of our extended family. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion, enjoying a casual dinner, or grabbing a quick lunch, you're contributing to the ongoing story of our community.
We believe that great food has the power to bring people together, create lasting memories, and strengthen the bonds that make our community special. When you dine with us, you're not just enjoying a meal - you're participating in a tradition of hospitality that spans generations.
Visit us today and become part of our story