About Us

Casa Italiana
While not comparable to New York's Little Italy or San Francisco's North Beach, this "littlest Italy" is Washington's own Mecca for Italians and Italian Americans proud of their ethnic heritage, and other Americans fascinated by the charm, beauty, and culture of Italy.

Casa Italiana, which means "Italian House", is a two-story rose brick building fronted by a patio. Its facade is graced by four lifelike Carrara marble statues: the divine poet, Dante Alighieri; the great sculptor-painter, Michelangelo Buonarroti; the immortal composer, Giuseppe Verdi; and the brilliant inventor of the wireless, Guglielmo Marconi. They welcome, so to speak, the visitors and set an artistic mood of Old World culture that complements any occasion.

Since its opening in 1981, Casa Italiana has become the fulcrum for Italians and Italian-Americans in the Greater Washington area and, indeed, for all those who treasure things Italian, by hosting characteristic events and cultural activities throughout the year. From the traditional Lasagna and Polenta Dinners (Italians make good cooks with specialties from both the North and South) to the dances which include the romantic Valentine Gala (Italians made good lovers) and the New Year's Eve Ball (Italians also make good party-goers), there are activities to enjoy for everyone. Choral groups from Italy use Casa Italiana when making their tours of the major cities in the United States.

Besides sponsoring its own cultural and social activities, Casa Italiana also rents itself out to other groups who wish to hold events of a religious, cultural, or social nature. It is committed to events which have an Italian flavor to them. However, other groups are welcomed. Casa Italiana boasts of a large hall which converts into a comfortable dining room suitable for banquets and weddings, anniversaries and other professional gatherings. Gourmet dinners and quality service are offered by a professional staff of chefs and waiters for groups of up to 250 guests. The list of menus and services is available upon request. For more information, please call (202) 638-0165.