Readers' Choice

2017 Best Italian Cuisine: Casa Mia

Casa Mia is a great place to catch up with family and friends over an authentic Italian meal.
Casa Mia is a great place to catch up with family and friends over an authentic Italian meal.

Consistency plays a key role in Casa Mia’s success with menu items still centered around original recipes from the first restaurant’s opening in 1952. What started as a storefront restaurant in Hoquiam, Washington, turned into seven restaurants across the state; an Italian blessing was brought to the Tri-Cities in 1993 when Dave and Glenda Brazell opened the Kennewick location.

In any Italian establishment, a family atmosphere is important. To Casa Mia General Manager Raymond Maldonado, creating a home-like atmosphere is important in drawing in customers, from regulars to the occasional dinner party. Casa Mia is also known for their patio, which, during the summer, is a quaint spot to enjoy a relaxing meal with friends and family.

Casa Mia focuses on the old-fashioned way of cooking, which sets them apart from other restaurants. “Everything’s from scratch on a daily basis,” said Maldonado. That includes their homemade butter and cream sauce, a popular menu item.

With spring and summer upon us, Maldonado recommends the Caesar or house salads. Or you may opt to try one of their award winning pizzas and sip a glass of wine on the patio. No matter your choice, there’s no doubt Casa Mia is the Tri-Cities’ own little piece of Italy.

<h3>1. Casa Mia</h3>

2541 W. Kennewick Ave., Kennewick, 509-582-0440

607 George Washington Way, Richland, 509-946-0500

casamiarestaurants.com

<h3>2. Olive Garden</h3>

1420 N. Louisiana Ave., Kennewick, 509-374-3500

olivegarden.com

<h3>3. Carmine's Italian Restaurant</h3>

525 W. 1st Ave., Kennewick, 509-396-7890

carmineskennewick.com

This story was originally published May 17, 2017 at 4:03 PM with the headline "2017 Best Italian Cuisine: Casa Mia."

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