Discover the heart and soul behind Minneapolis's favorite pizza luce destination. From our founding story to our team, we're proud to share what makes us who we are — and why luce pizza keeps bringing people back.
Pizza luce was born from a simple idea: that great pizza should be more than just food — it should be an experience. Founded in Minneapolis in 1993 on East Franklin Avenue, our doors opened with a single wood-fired oven, a handful of recipes, and an enormous passion for bringing bold, creative flavors to our community.
What started as a small neighborhood pizzeria quickly grew into something much bigger. Word spread about our hand-tossed dough, locally-sourced toppings, and the welcoming atmosphere that made every table feel like home. Through the years, we've expanded our menu, added locations, and deepened our roots — but our soul has never changed.
"We never set out to be just another pizza place. We wanted to be your pizza place — the one you think of when you want something real, something crafted with care."
Today, pizzaluce serves tens of thousands of loyal guests every year. Every crust is still hand-stretched, every sauce still made from scratch, and every pizza still baked with the same love that started it all over thirty years ago.
We exist to bring people together through outstanding food, genuine hospitality, and a space that feels like home in the heart of Minneapolis.
We source ingredients from local Minnesota farms and regional suppliers whenever possible, keeping our food fresh and our community supported.
Every pizza is crafted by hand by our team who genuinely care about what they put on your plate. Passion is our most important ingredient.
Pizza luce is woven into the fabric of Minneapolis. We give back through partnerships, events, and supporting causes that matter to our neighbors.
With generous vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options, everyone is welcome at our table — no exceptions, no compromise on taste.
The principles below guide every decision we make — from how we hire to how we cook. luce pizza is more than a brand; it's a commitment.
We never cut corners on ingredients, preparation, or presentation. If it doesn't meet our standards, it doesn't leave our kitchen.
Every guest deserves to feel genuinely welcomed — whether it's your first visit or your five hundredth. We remember names, not just orders.
We push boundaries with bold flavor combinations while respecting classic technique. Curiosity is encouraged in our kitchen every single day.
From compostable packaging to responsible sourcing, we actively work to reduce our footprint and operate with long-term thinking.
From a single oven in Minneapolis to a beloved institution — here are the milestones that shaped who we are today.
Pizza luce opens its doors at 2200 E Franklin Ave in Minneapolis. A wood-fired oven, 12 tables, and a dream to make the best pizza in the Twin Cities. The neighborhood took notice immediately.
After five years of packed tables and growing waitlists, we expanded our original location and introduced our beloved Sunday brunch — a Minneapolis tradition that continues today.
We brought the pizzaluce experience to the Uptown neighborhood, bringing our signature hand-tossed pies and inclusive menu to a new community of loyal fans.
Named "Best Pizza in Minneapolis" by City Pages for three consecutive years. We celebrated the honor by launching our community fundraising program, donating a portion of sales to local causes.
We launched digital ordering, making it easier than ever to enjoy pizza luce from the comfort of home. Catering services were also formally introduced to serve events of all sizes.
We celebrated our 30th anniversary with a refreshed menu, a renovated dining room, and a renewed commitment to the community that has supported us since that very first slice in 1993.
Behind every great pizza is an even greater team. Say hello to the passionate people who make Pizza luce what it is every single day.
With over 30 years in the kitchen, Marcus founded Pizza luce on a belief that food should be bold, honest, and made with real ingredients. His recipes remain the cornerstone of everything we serve.
Sofia ensures every location runs like clockwork. Her dedication to consistency and team culture is the reason pizzaluce delivers the same excellent experience across every table, every day.
James trained in Naples before bringing his artisan dough-making techniques to Minneapolis. His hand-stretched crusts and creative topping combinations are the stuff of local legend.
Alicia leads our community engagement efforts and brand storytelling. Her work keeps Pizza luce connected to the neighborhoods we love, from local events to online conversations.
Love what we do? We're always looking for passionate people to join our team.
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