A pink neon sign lights up the night on the corner of Colorado and Vermont in Eagle Rock; one of LA’s up and coming hoods. The sign reads “Pizza Pie.” Not impressive unless you care to ask around. That might not be necessary if you drive by on a Friday or Saturday night when crowds gather outside the place to pick up or dine in. That would be a pretty good indication by my standards despite the letter on the window but if you DO care to ask around you would find some history. The place is a locals’ favorite since the 50’s. Casa Bianca (1650 Colorado Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90041, 323-256-9617) is a family owned joint with original recipes served up by local teenagers, cooked by the original owners, and managed by their children…a true Italian experience.

In traditional fashion, the place has a very casual but inviting setting. The entrance is buzzing with people picking up orders of their specialty, New York style pizza. With 20 toppings and the option of wheat or Sicilian style crust it is easy to get carried away. As you patiently wait you’ll notice the pictures on the wall, an homage to the many famous regulars who apparently are not allowed to by-pass the long lines. There is even a framed piece with caricatures of Italy’s contributions to this wonderful country...you guessed it! Robert DeNiro, Rocky Balboa, and Liza Minnelli.

If you get a table before you pass out you will find the mozzarella sticks to be the best you over tasted. Move on to your main course from a choice of ravioli, spaghetti, lasagna, and other classic dishes. Although I was not impressed by the tomato sauce used in my dish, I would go back to try something from the a la carte menu or at the very least make cheesy Godfather impressions.