Marcus Reid
Executive Chef & Co-FounderWith over 30 years crafting extraordinary pies, Marcus is the visionary behind pizza luce's iconic flavor combinations and kitchen culture.
Our Story
About Pizza luce
Discover the passion, craft, and community spirit behind pizza luce — Minneapolis's beloved destination for extraordinary pizza and inspired cuisine since the early 1990s.
30+
Years of
Excellence
Excellence
Where It All Began
The pizza luce Story
Pizza luce began as a dream shared by a small group of food lovers in the heart of Minneapolis. We opened our doors on East Franklin Avenue with a single, unwavering belief: that great food has the power to bring people together, spark conversation, and nourish community.
From day one, the pizza luce kitchen has been a place of genuine creativity. Our chefs have always pushed beyond tradition — pairing classic Italian techniques with bold, unexpected flavors and locally sourced ingredients that reflect the vibrant spirit of the Twin Cities.
"We don't just make pizza — we craft an experience that celebrates inclusivity, creativity, and the joy of eating well. Every slice tells our story."
Over three decades, we've evolved from a neighborhood spot into a beloved Minneapolis institution, earning a devoted following of regulars, food critics, and first-time visitors alike. Yet our heart remains exactly where it started: at the corner of craft and community.
30+
Years in Business
500K+
Pizzas Served
120+
Menu Items
15K+
Happy Guests Monthly
4.8★
Average Rating
"Our mission is to serve extraordinary pizzaluce creations that celebrate bold flavors, inclusive dining, and the vibrant heart of Minneapolis — one unforgettable slice at a time."— The Pizza luce Team
What Drives Us
Our Core Values
The principles that shape every pizza, every guest experience, and every decision we make.
Crafted with Passion
Every pizza is made with genuine love for the craft. We pour creativity and care into every dough stretch, sauce spread, and topping combination.
Fresh Local Ingredients
We source from local Minnesota farms and suppliers whenever possible, ensuring the freshest flavors while supporting the community we call home.
Radical Inclusivity
Pizza luce welcomes everyone — our menu includes vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-friendly options so every guest feels genuinely at home.
Unwavering Quality
We never compromise on quality. From our hand-tossed dough to our signature sauces, every element is held to the highest standard, every single day.
Creative Innovation
Tradition inspires us, but creativity defines us. Our luce pizza menu evolves with the seasons and the imaginations of our talented kitchen team.
Community First
We invest back into the neighborhoods we serve — through local partnerships, charitable initiatives, and a commitment to being a force for good.
Sustainability
From compostable packaging to energy-efficient kitchens, we work every day to reduce our environmental footprint and protect the planet we share.
Joy in Every Bite
Food should make you happy. We strive to create moments of pure delight — from the first whiff of our wood-fired ovens to the last satisfying bite.
Our Journey
A History of Great pizza lucs
Three decades of milestones, innovation, and community connection.
1992
The First Slice
Pizza luce opens its original location at 2200 E Franklin Ave, Minneapolis. A small team with a big vision begins serving hand-crafted pizzas to the Seward neighborhood.
92
1996
Late-Night Legend
We expand our hours to serve late-night guests — becoming Minneapolis's go-to destination after concerts and events. The legendary 2am kitchen is born.
96
2001
Uptown Expansion
The beloved pizzaluce brand expands to the Uptown neighborhood, bringing our signature creative pies and inclusive atmosphere to a new corner of the city.
01
2007
Best of the Twin Cities
City Pages names Pizza luce "Best Pizza in Minneapolis" — a recognition of our commitment to bold flavors, quality ingredients, and community spirit.
07
2013
Vegan & Inclusive Menu
We launch our expanded vegan and vegetarian menu, cementing our reputation as one of the most inclusive luce pizza destinations in the Midwest.
13
2019
St. Paul & Nordeast
Two new locations open, extending the Pizza luce family across the Twin Cities metro area and bringing our craft pies to thousands of new neighbors.
19
2022
30 Years & Counting
We celebrate three decades of pizza luce with a special anniversary menu, community events, and deep gratitude for every guest who has made us who we are.
22
Today
Still Going Strong
Pizza luce continues to grow, innovate, and serve — with new menu items, catering services, and online ordering making it easier than ever to enjoy the luce experience.
NOW
The People Behind the Pizza
Meet Our Team
The passionate individuals who bring pizza luce to life every single day.
Serena Park
Head of OperationsSerena ensures every pizzaluce location runs with precision and warmth. Her commitment to hospitality sets the standard for every guest experience.
Daniel Torres
Head Pizza ChefA classically trained chef who fell in love with the art of luce pizza, Daniel brings an obsessive attention to dough fermentation and ingredient balance.
Amara Johnson
Community DirectorAmara is the heartbeat of Pizza luce's community programs, forging connections between the restaurant and the neighborhoods that inspire us every day.
Want to join the Pizza luce family? We're always looking for passionate people.
Get In Touch
Our Space
Come As You Are
A welcoming, lively atmosphere where great food and great company come together.
