On behalf of my family, I’d like to thank you for dining with us today. As you may know, we turned 60 in 2016! Since we opened our doors in 1956, Mama Louisa’s has strived to bring your family great tasting, homemade, Italian American cuisine. As we move into our third generation of family ownership, I wanted to share a little history with you that will help shed some light on our new menu.

My grandfather, Joe Elefante Sr., moved to Tucson from Long Island, New York in 1973. Looking for a way to bring the Italian American tastes he grew up on back east to his new home, he bought Mama Louisa’s from Luigia (Louisa) Casadei & her family… Yes, there actually was a Mama Louisa! My parents, Joe Jr. & Suzanne, moved here shortly after, and the family business was under way. As kids, we practically grew up in this place, and as soon as we could carry a tray, we were on the floor too.

Through the years, our grandparents, parents, aunts & uncles, cousins and all of us kids have worked together to keep the history alive. The recipes and the keys to the place have been passed down over time, and each generation has put their own signature on the business. This menu is a toast to all of those people who have walked these floors and preserved the heritage, and now it’s time we put our own twist on things.

Our family and employees would like to thank you, our guests, that supported us during Covid-19. We know it was difficult for everyone and it created many changes in our industry. We are thankful that you choose to continue to trust us to take care of you and your family.

After all these years, we’re proud to carry the torch forward, and thankful for our loyal customers that have supported us along the way. Most importantly, we hope that our family tradition can become a part of yours. Thank you for continued support, and please let us know what you think. Keep the faith, Chef Michael Elefante