Bellagio Pizzeria, which has been a staple in Northeast Mesa’s dining scene since it opened 14 years ago, will debut a new name, Milano’s, this month.
With the name change, loyal customers can expect the same great menu, value, service and atmosphere they’ve come to know and love.
“We are the same restaurant with the same concept,” said owner Mike Bipar. “We are very, very affordable for the atmosphere we have and the service you get. We try to always do better.”
The attention to great food and service has kept Mike’s restaurant legacy running in the Valley since the 1970s. Milano’s Pizzeria began in 1971 as Papa Jay’s Pizza, at a location near Arizona State University, and has evolved into the pizza and Mediterranean restaurant it is today.
Despite a couple name and location changes, consistency in delivering a great experience to customers has remained of the upmost importance to Mike. He also ensures consistency by sticking with great menu items and keeping employees.
“I’ve had the same crew for years,” he explained. “My manager and my cook have been with me for more than 25 years. We keep the same employees as much as we can.”
This consistency in staff and values has kept the quality and consistency of the food high, allowing customers to know they always can expect the same great meal whenever they visit.
“Every time I talk to customers, they say, ‘Ever since you started here more than 10 years ago, you always have been consistent,’” recalled Mike.
In addition to consistency, Milano’s also provides options, with Mediterranean menu items, as well as pizza, and with choices for all kinds of dietary needs and preferences.
Another key component to Milano’s success is an excellent atmosphere. Mike continues to strive for a better atmosphere by constantly remodeling. Last year, it was an upgraded kitchen, and this year, he’s working on a remodeled bar, one of the most popular aspects of the restaurant where patrons enjoy watching the multiple TVs.
“It’s a very simple concept we have, and it can be considered fine dining because of the atmosphere we have,” he said. “I remodel every two years.”
Milano’s is located at 4545 E. McKellips Road, Suite 103. For more information, call (480) 325-1600.