Carli Clesmere 
New Jersey’s connection to Italian cuisine is undeniable — pizza parlors have long stood as iconic staples across the state. In the small borough of Rutherford, which spans just 2.78 square miles, that tradition of classic Italian cooking is alive and thriving. Rutherford packs a lot of flavor, and one standout spot is Casano’s Pizza Parlor, located at 8 Highland Cross. Owned and operated by Dave Liga, the restaurant channels the warmth and comfort of a Sunday dinner at Nonna’s house. Read on for more about Casano’s, where heritage, hospitality, and timeless Italian flavors come together in Rutherford.
Meet Dave Liga: The Heart of Casano’s
Dave Liga’s journey into the world of pizza began, like many culinary paths, with small beginnings. As a delivery boy for Tavolino Pizzeria + Trattoria in Wallington, he quickly became more than just the kid dropping off pies. The owners trusted and believed in him. When they eventually stepped away from the business, Dave took over marking the true start of his career in pizza.
In fall 2023, Dave announced plans for Casano’s Pizza Parlor to come to Rutherford. Taking over the former Top That Donuts space, Dave transformed the shop into a cozy, welcoming spot that feels more like Nonna’s kitchen than a typical pizzeria. With a new name, a refreshed atmosphere, and a clear sense of purpose, Casano’s Pizza Parlor became the embodiment of a dream Dave had carried for years.
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Inside the Pizza Parlor: Inspired by Nonna’s Kitchen
Dave’s love for tradition is the thread that runs through the restaurant, from the physical space to the menu offerings to the way things are cooked. Think Nonna’s house, with old-school furniture and the smell of red sauce (or gravy) simmering for hours in a pot that’s probably older than The Ho-Ho-Kus Inn + Tavern. Casano’s is more than just a pizza shop; it’s a tribute to owner Dave Liga’s grandmother. The entire space was designed to reflect her home, her warmth, and the kind of love that came out of her kitchen.
From a refrigerator that dates back to the 1970s to vintage couches + retro TVs, every detail adds to the nostalgic charm. This isn’t a themed setup or a gimmick. It’s the real deal. The team behind Casano’s takes pride in creating a space that feels lived-in, authentic, and filled with the flavors and comfort of old-school Italian traditions.
In a chat with The Bergen Girl, the crew at Casano’s Pizza Parlor shared that “Casano’s was built on being real.” There are no slices, and every pizza is made fresh, not something sitting in a display case. At Casano’s, there’s no cutting corners or playing it safe, simply because, as they put it, “that’s not how Nonna would have done it.”
The menu is filled with full pies only, and no alterations can be made. Options include the Round Vodka Stracciatella, New Haven Tomato Pie, Casano’s Burrata Pizza, and more. While pizza takes center stage, the rest of the menu delivers just as much Italian comfort + character. Appetizers, sandwiches, + salads round it out with just as much flavor.
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When faced with the menu, Team BG had a tough time deciding where to start — ordering everything was not exactly an option. Fortunately, the staff at Casano’s helped narrow it down by sharing a few customer favorites. The New Haven-style pie + the chicken parm came highly recommended as fan favorites.
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