When locals want a place where they can relax, connect with friends and feel genuinely welcomed, it is no surprise they head to Casey’s Public House. A fixture in Newtown Square for nearly five decades, Casey’s has weathered changes in dining trends and growing competition while holding fast to the qualities that matter most to its guests. Warm service, familiar faces, delicious food and an atmosphere that feels both lively and comfortable have kept Casey’s at the heart of the community for generations.
Opened in 1976, Casey’s was founded by Newtown Square native Steve Graham, whose roots in the area run deep. Raised in a large family and shaped early by hard work, Steve developed a strong work ethic at a young age while working at local farms and later holding after-school jobs throughout high school. Sports also played a significant role in his life, teaching him discipline, perseverance and teamwork, values that would later influence how he approached business and leadership. When Steve opened Casey’s, he brought with him not just ambition, but a clear understanding of what a neighborhood gathering place should feel like.
In its early years, Casey’s stood out as one of the first local spots to feature televisions for sports viewing, quickly becoming a destination for fans eager to watch games together. The casual, welcoming atmosphere helped establish the bar as more than just a place to grab a drink. It became a hub where friendships formed and community connections strengthened. Over time, the original trolley-themed concept evolved, but the idea of Casey’s as a place to stop, unwind and feel at home never faded.
A significant chapter in the Casey’s story began in 2001, when Pete Crisanti joined Steve as a partner. Like Steve, Pete grew up in Newtown Square and attended Saint Anastasia and Marple Newtown High School. Steve knew Pete through Pete’s father, who owned a meat market near Casey’s. Pete also opened a beer distributorship in Marple Newtown and operated that business for 20 years. When Steve invited Pete to partner as Casey’s co-owner in 2001, he knew they shared the same work ethic. “I thought he’d be a good partner,” said Steve. “Pete understood that the restaurant business is 24/7. When everyone else is playing, like on weekends and holidays, we are working.”
The idea of a business partnership in his hometown had Pete immediately excited. “I have never left this town in my three careers,” Pete said with pride. Not only did Steve admire Pete’s work ethic and dedication to the community, but he was a great friend. “He is such a great husband and father and he’s like a brother to me,” Steve said proudly. Pete’s son, Andrew, is also involved in the business and has been for a long time. Andrew
worked for Casey’s throughout high school and college. “I grew up in this business,” Andrew said. “I am so proud to be a part of Newtown Square history and I look forward to becoming more involved in the community and getting to know our customers and their families.”
One of the clearest indicators of Casey’s success is the loyalty of its staff. Many employees have been part of the Casey’s family for decades, creating a sense of continuity and familiarity that guests feel immediately. It’s a source of great pride for Pete. “Some of our bartenders and wait staff have been with us for more than 20 years” he said. “But we don’t consider them staff because they are our family.”
Just as important as a wonderful staff is to Steve and Pete, so is the importance of giving back to the community. They are the proud sponsor of our Friends & Neighbors magazine’s Student of the Month, which honors local middle and high school students who demonstrate excellence in service to school, friendship, community or area groups. Casey’s is proud to celebrate each student with a gift certificate to the restaurant. Casey’s also sponsors and supports local sports teams as well as the Marple Newtown High School Marching Band; organizations that reflect the dedication and teamwork. These generous gestures are not seen as obligations, but as a natural extension of being part of the community.
It’s that friendly, personalized feel that keeps friends and neighbors coming back to Casey’s, no matter what the occasion. Whether you are looking for great food, a cocktail or to meet old friends and new ones, Casey’s is the best place close to home! Located at 3529 West Chester Pike, Casey’s Public House is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner. For more information, or to order online, visit their website at CaseysNS.com. For lunch and dinner reservations, call 610-353-1212.