Seattle, Washington—Joe Fugere and team have done it again!  Tutta Bella Neapolitan Pizzerias were just awarded “Best Operator” for Washington State by their peers at the Washington State Restaurant Association (WRA).  This foodie Oscar was given out during the WRA’s annual March “Toasting the Finest” gala. The honor was bestowed just weeks after the local pizzeria received the “Hot Concepts” award (only one of 5 given out each year) from the National Restaurant Association.

Tutta Bella is a team dream company, where everyone has an opportunity to help shape the business and its success.  The enterprise recently held a server summit during which all four locations were closed. Employees were paid for missed hours while attending the retreat – a not inexpensive decision.  With the loss of the day’s sales and staff pay, the cost to Tutta Bella ran nearly $10,000. However, according to founder Joe Fugere, the rewards far outweighed the cost.  Everyone from staff to guests benefited.  “We see how our team is vested in our success. We want to recognize that, and in turn, invest in their growth and future” says Fugere.

Founded five years ago, Tutta Bella was Seattle’s first Vera Pizza Napoletana (VPN) certified Neapolitan pizzeria and as such is held accountable to the Association’s high culinary standards.  In addition to pizza, menu items include calzone, antipasti, signature salads, house-made desserts and gelato.  Tutta Bella also serves Attibassi espresso, flown in weekly direct from Italy, which is prepared at the true Neapolitan style espresso bar, featuring a traditional lever-action Italian espresso machine made by Victoria Arduino.

Tutta Bella has now grown to four locations: the original in Columbia City and three others located in Stone Way, Westlake and Issaquah.

Columbia City    4918 Rainier Avenue South, Seattle 98118         (206) 721-3501

Issaquah            715 NW Gilman Blvd.,   Issaquah  98027            (425) 391-6838

Stone Way         4411 Stone Way North,  Seattle 98103                (206) 633-3800

Westlake          2200 Westlake Ave., Suite 112, Seattle  98121     (206) 624-4422