Reflecting on Why Mansetti’s Shoreview Has Been a Community Staple for Nearly 40 Years

I’m Dave, and I’ve owned Mansetti’s Shoreview since 2001. Mansett's first opened our doors back in 1986, and this little pizza place has been a big part of Shoreview ever since. To me, it’s not just a job—it’s about making a spot where people can eat, laugh, and feel at home. For almost 40 years now, I’ve been lucky to see families, friends, and neighbors walk through my doors, and I love every minute of it.

When I bought Mansetti’s in 2001, I saw something special. It was already a Shoreview favorite, and I wanted to keep that going. I grew up around here, so I know what this town means to people. I’ve spent over 30 years making sure we’re more than just a restaurant—we’re part of the neighborhood. I help out with school fundraisers, give pizzas to sports teams, and join in on charity nights. I love watching kids cheer when we bring food to their events or seeing folks catch up over a slice. To me, that’s the real heart of Mansetti’s—we’re here for Shoreview, and Shoreview’s here for us.

I’ve got regulars who’ve been coming forever, and it warms my heart. Some of them ate here as little kids back in the ‘80s and ‘90s, and now they bring their own kids in. They sit down, look around, and tell me how it feels the same—like time hasn’t changed a thing. I hear stories about birthday parties they had here or Friday nights with their parents. I keep my team friendly and familiar because I want you to walk in and know you’re with people who care. It’s like a big family, and I’m proud to be the guy keeping it together.

The food’s what gets people through the door, and I take it seriously. My thin-crust pizza is the star—crisp, tasty, and just how I like it. I pick out good ingredients myself, making sure every pizza’s a winner. You can get a plain cheese one if that’s your thing, or load it up with pepperoni, sausage, veggies—whatever you’re craving. I taste-test stuff to keep it right because I want you to bite in and think, “Man, that’s good.” But I don’t stop at pizza. I’ve got pasta that fills you up, like spaghetti with sauce I’ve tweaked over the years or lasagna that’s cheesy and warm. My garlic bread’s a hit too—crispy on the outside, soft inside, with just enough butter. And if you want a little something to start, I’ve got wings, mozzarella sticks, and other appetizers that set the table right. I put my all into this food—it’s my way of saying thanks for coming in.

Step into Mansetti’s Shoreview, and I hope it feels different from those big, loud chain places. I’ve made it cozy and simple, like you’re at a friend’s house. I’m usually walking around, saying hi, asking how your day’s going. My workers are the same—they smile, chat, and make sure you’re good. I want you to sit down and forget the rush outside. Maybe you’re here for a quick lunch, or maybe you’re catching up with buddies over dinner. Either way, I’ve got a spot for you. To me, this is Shoreview’s place to slow down and enjoy.

I love when groups show up. You’ve got a birthday party, a family get-together, or a team coming off a game? I’m ready for you. I had a guy tell me not long ago that his group of 20 rolled in, and we got them seated fast. The pizzas came out hot, the drinks were cold, and everyone had a blast. I train my team to handle the big crowds without missing a beat, because I want every visit to feel easy. Whether it’s two of you or twenty, I’m here to make it work.

I’ve been doing this for over 30 years now, and Mansetti’s has been around for nearly 40. I think about that a lot—how we’ve lasted because of you. My regulars keep me going, showing up week after week with a grin. Then there’s the new folks who find us, maybe on a whim, and decide to stick around. I’ve seen Shoreview grow and shift, but I’ve kept this place steady. It’s not just about selling pizza—it’s about giving you a spot to feel welcome, a memory to keep. I’m thankful every day for that.

What makes Mansetti’s mine? I think it’s a few things. My pizza’s awesome—I’ll stand by that. But it’s also how I look out for this town, how I keep it friendly and cheap. I’m here most days, making sure it all runs smooth. My crew’s like family to me, and we work together so you leave with a good story. I want you to come back, not just for the food, but because you felt at home.

Let me tell you about my menu—it’s got stuff for everyone. I’ve got pizzas you can pile high with whatever you like. Meat lovers? I’ve got sausage, pepperoni, ham. Veggie fan? I’ve got peppers, onions, mushrooms. Or mix it up however you want. My pasta’s a comfort thing—spaghetti with a sauce I’ve messed with ‘til it’s perfect, or lasagna that’s gooey and hearty. I make garlic bread that folks rave about—just the right crunch and flavor. And I’ve got starters too—wings with a little kick, mozzarella sticks that pull apart just right, even some fries if you’re in the mood. I keep it all simple but good, so you’re happy no matter what you pick.

I’ve got this place ready for any time of year. Winter hits Shoreview hard, and I keep it warm inside—perfect for a hot pizza when it’s freezing out. Summer’s busy with folks coming in after a day at the lake or park, and I love the energy. Spring and fall are my favorites—the town looks great, and people stop by to eat and enjoy it. I make sure Mansetti’s fits whatever the calendar says, so you’ve always got a reason to drop in.

I’ve got stories from running this place that stick with me. There was this one night a big storm hit, and a bunch of folks ended up here because the power was out everywhere else. I kept the ovens going, and we turned it into a party—pizza for everyone, laughing ‘til late. Or the time a kid’s soccer team won their first game, and I surprised them with free slices. I live for moments like that—when Mansetti’s isn’t just a restaurant, it’s where Shoreview comes alive.

If you’re near Shoreview, I’d love to see you here. I’ve been at this since 1994, keeping things going since ’01, and I’m still excited to fire up the ovens. Whether you’ve known us forever or you’re new in town, I want you to walk in and feel like you belong. We’re right here in Shoreview, easy to spot, and I promise it’s more than a meal—it’s a chance to sit, eat, and be part of something. Come by, grab a slice, and let me show you why Mansetti’s Shoreview is my pride and joy.