Bell ‘Italia Pizzeria owners Mario and Paola Caputo have not only shared 10 years of food, but have become supporters of their community that played a role in their success.
Since opening up shop a decade ago, in the same cozy business suite it continues to operate from, the Caputos started lending a hand in local fundraising.
“What we all need to do is help each other out,” said Paola, of small business owners.
This month, the restaurant, near 48th Street and Chandler Boulevard, is hosting an Italian club, which includes dinner and a movie screening. They also are currently fundraising for their church’s youth mission trip.
The restaurant in the past also raised money for a number of local entities like Dance Studio 111, formerly the Kimberly Lewis School of Dance, Desert Vista High School, New Life Church, and the AYSO Gold soccer team.
The owners also aim to spread their catering legs, mentioning that they can do banquets, weddings and other events needed in the community.
Alongside their community involvement, what is also set on a high standard is their customer appreciation.
Paola said they want every customer to feel like family, and some of the restaurant’s regulars already do.
“We believe in doing unto others what you would want done to you, and if you do that it would be a better world,” Paola said.
The pizzeria, which was recently remodeled, features vintage photos of the Caputo family’s relatives, adding to the great sense of family-oriented service.
Mario, and his son Matthew, make and serve their food themselves with the help of a few others.
The couple said they hope to expand their catering services and possibly open up a bar area in their restaurant. Though they would like to eventually be in a larger place, they value the small, homey feel of their current location.
“Our time here has been good, and we’ve made a lot of friends,” Mario added.
Bell ‘Italia Pizzeria is located at 4909 E. Chandler Blvd.. in Suite 506. For more information on their current fundraising, call the restaurant at (480) 893-1233.
• Diana Martinez is freelancing this summer for the Ahwatukee Foothills News. Reach her at thedianamartinez@gmail.com. Follow her on Twitter @_dianamartinez.
