New Lucano's Pizza Opens in Palos Heights

Palos Heights' newest pizza place has launched with a bang.

Lucano's Pizza opened for business Tuesday to a surprising response from the community, said owner Alex Dreznes. He said business that first day far exceed what they expected.

"We turned the "Open" sign off, it was so busy," Dreznes said.

Lucano's feature item is their thin crust pizza. Dreznes said they got their training and has worked as a franchisee with Barraco's Pizza since 2006, operating locations Lisle and Crest Hill. In June, they broke off from the big chain and rebranded to Lucano's.

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The newly independent operation then started looking for the chance to move to the south suburbs. Dreznes is originally from Oak Forest and graduated from Sandburg High School in Orland Park.

Lucano's takes over the former Caprio's Pizza spot, which closed down for the second time Aug. 16 after a short run under new management. Rosario Caprio, who started the old pizza restaurant, had sold it off but was still part of the deal and had helped search for a new buyer.

"I had the best year I ever had in 2011 and I sold it just because I had a good offer," Caprio said of his original desire to sell.

Find Lucano's Pizza on Facebook.

Dreznes jumped on the chance to take over the spot from Caprio at 12778 S. Harlem Ave. Trained by Barraco's, Dreznes brings great deal of culinary expertise to his own recipes for pizza.

"If you like a nice Chicago thin crust pizza, come by and try it," Dreznes said.

Lucano's menu includes an assortment of offerings, including burgers, sandwiches and pasta dishes. Lucano's also has restaurant seating and offers catering.

Looking to try Lucano's or another of Palos' great places to eat? Look through Palos Patch's business directory first.

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