1952
7
$250,000
$30,000
$500,000
No
Casa Mia Restaurant offers a unique opportunity to invest in a franchise that combines traditional Italian cuisine with a rich heritage. Established in 1952 by Phil Bellofatto in Hoquiam, Washington, Casa Mia has become a beloved institution known for its hand-tossed pizzas, six-hour simmered spaghetti sauce, and commitment to quality. With a focus on family-friendly dining and community involvement, Casa Mia provides a warm and inviting atmosphere for guests of all ages.
Proven Track Record: With over seven decades of operation, Casa Mia has demonstrated resilience and adaptability in the competitive restaurant industry.
Award-Winning Cuisine: Casa Mia's commitment to quality has earned it national recognition, including winning the "Pizza Across America" contest and twice winning Pizza Today's Pizza Festiva.
Community Engagement: As a family-owned business, Casa Mia has deep roots in the communities it serves, fostering customer loyalty and repeat business.
Comprehensive Support: Franchisees receive extensive training and ongoing support in areas such as operations, marketing, and menu development, ensuring a successful partnership.
Established Year: 1952
Founders: Phil Bellofatto
Company History & Brand Journey: Casa Mia was founded in 1952 in Hoquiam, Washington, by Phil Bellofatto, who brought authentic Italian recipes and a passion for quality to the Pacific Northwest. Initially, the restaurant focused on classic Italian dishes, including hand-tossed pizzas and a signature six-hour simmered spaghetti sauce, which quickly became a local favorite.
In 1974, the restaurant was purchased by Roger Jump, who continued Phil Bellofatto’s legacy while expanding the brand’s reach within Washington State. Over the decades, Casa Mia has become synonymous with family-friendly dining, warm hospitality, and high-quality Italian cuisine, earning accolades and a loyal customer base.
Franchise Units & Expansion: Casa Mia operates seven locations across Washington State, including Kennewick, Lacey, Lakewood, Olympia, Puyallup, Richland, and Yelm. The company began franchising in 1993, gradually growing its presence while maintaining strong operational and quality standards.
Ownership: Privately owned and operated.
Market Presence in the USA: While currently concentrated in Washington State, Casa Mia has plans for expansion into new regions across the USA, leveraging its reputation for authentic Italian dining.
Industry Category: Full-service Italian restaurant and pizzeria.
Reputation: Casa Mia is celebrated for its consistency, quality ingredients, and a menu that balances classic Italian favorites with innovative dishes. Its strong community ties, award-winning recipes, and decades-long history give franchisees a competitive advantage in the local restaurant market.
Other Notable Information: The brand emphasizes a family-oriented atmosphere and active community involvement, which not only strengthens customer loyalty but also enhances the overall brand image—making it an attractive opportunity for franchise investors who value both business success and community engagement.
Pre-Launch Support: Assistance with site selection, lease negotiation, and restaurant design to ensure optimal location and layout.
Operational Training: Comprehensive training program covering all aspects of restaurant operations, including kitchen procedures, customer service, and inventory management.
Marketing Support: Access to proven marketing strategies and materials to promote the franchise and attract customers.
Ongoing Support: Regular visits from corporate representatives to provide guidance and ensure adherence to brand standards.
Menu Development: Continuous innovation of menu offerings to keep the dining experience fresh and appealing to customers.
Casa Mia seeks motivated, passionate, and business-savvy individuals who are committed to bringing authentic Italian dining experiences to their communities. The ideal franchisee embodies a combination of operational capability, entrepreneurial drive, and customer-focused values.
1. Business Background:
Experience in the restaurant, hospitality, or food service industry is preferred but not strictly required.
Familiarity with business operations, staff management, and financial oversight is highly advantageous.
Individuals with prior experience in running small or medium-sized businesses are well-positioned to succeed.
2. Passion for Italian Cuisine:
A genuine love for Italian food, quality ingredients, and culinary tradition is essential.
Enthusiasm for sharing the Casa Mia experience with customers, emphasizing authenticity and service excellence.
3. Entrepreneurial Spirit:
Self-motivated, proactive, and willing to take initiative in day-to-day operations.
Comfortable with decision-making and problem-solving under operational and financial pressures.
4. Financial Capability:
Must have the financial resources to meet the initial franchise investment, cover infrastructure costs, and sustain operations until profitability.
Ability to allocate funds for working capital, marketing, and potential expansion within the territory.
5. Commitment to Operations:
Willingness to actively manage and oversee the restaurant, ensuring adherence to Casa Mia’s brand standards.
Strong focus on delivering consistent customer service and maintaining high-quality food standards.
6. Community Engagement:
Interest in integrating into the local community, participating in events, and building a loyal customer base.
Ability to leverage local networks to promote the restaurant and enhance brand reputation.
7. Location Preference:
Ideal franchisees are interested in urban, suburban, or high-traffic locations that support strong customer flow.
Open to identifying areas with a growing market for Italian cuisine and family-friendly dining experiences.
8. Personality Traits:
Strong work ethic, integrity, and reliability.
Collaborative mindset to work closely with Casa Mia corporate support teams while maintaining autonomy in local management.
Summary:
The ideal Casa Mia franchisee combines financial readiness, operational skill, and a passion for Italian cuisine with a dedication to quality service and community engagement. This blend ensures that every franchisee can successfully grow their business while upholding the brand’s reputation for authentic Italian dining.
| Category | Details / Range |
|---|---|
| Total Investment Required | $250,000 – $500,000 (depending on location and build-out) |
| Minimum Investment Required | $50,000 in liquid capital |
| Franchise Fee | Not publicly disclosed (estimated $30,000 – $50,000 typical for regional restaurant franchises) |
| Franchise Units | 7 current locations in Washington State |
| Infrastructure / Build-out Costs | $150,000 – $300,000 (including kitchen equipment, dining area, signage, and interior design) |
| Marketing Budget | $5,000 – $15,000 annually (local and regional marketing initiatives) |
| Working Capital | $50,000 – $75,000 (to cover initial operating expenses) |
| Royalty Fees | Not publicly disclosed (industry average: 4–6% of gross sales) |
| Expected ROI | 20% – 35% (varies by location, operational efficiency, and market conditions) |
| Break-even Time | 12 – 24 months (depending on location and initial marketing success) |
| Potential Revenue Streams | Dine-in services, takeout & delivery, catering services, special events, and merchandise (if applicable) |
