Dave DeMille
| Reporter assisted by AI
La Stella Pizzeria owner Justin Burrows talks about its new location
La Stella Pizzeria owner Justin Burrows talks about why he uses imported Italian flour for his pizzas.
Norwich restaurateur Justin Burrows, known for feeding neighbors facing hardship, will receive the 2026 Jason Vincent Memorial Service Award for his community work and leadership.
Burrows, who owns La Stella Pizzeria and La Stella Italian Market & Bakery, is scheduled to be honored at the Norwich Events Organization’s annual gala at 6 p.m. March 20 at the Norwich Holiday Inn, according to a community announcement. The award recognizes a resident whose service reflects the late Jason Vincent’s dedication to helping others.
Burrows started his career at La Stella Pizzeria as a delivery driver and later spent years with Geno Auriemma’s Restaurant Group, rising from manager to director of operations, according to the announcement. He returned to La Stella in January 2020 to take ownership, keeping the longtime Norwich restaurant’s community focus intact. In 2022, he expanded the business with a Taftville bakery and market offering Italian breads, pastries, and family‑inspired specialties.
His businesses have since become a safety net for neighbors struggling with food insecurity, according to the announcement. Burrows created “The Lefty’s Special,” a standing offer that provides anyone who is hungry with a no‑cost meal. A free food table at the bakery ensures residents facing hardship can pick up essentials without questions.
Burrows’ civic involvement stretches well beyond his restaurants. He served as Grand Marshal of the Norwich Winterfest Parade in 2021 and chairs the Norwich Italian Festival Board, helping revive the festival in 2025. He is a Corporator for Norwich Free Academy, a member of the United Italian Society and the Cultural Committee, and an active participant in the Greater Norwich Area Chamber of Commerce. La Stella Pizzeria earned the chamber’s Business of the Year award in 2021.
“Justin Burrows exemplifies what it means to be a community‑minded business leader,” Jennifer Graf, vice president of the Norwich Events Organization, said in the announcement. “His commitment to feeding those in need, supporting local traditions, and creating welcoming spaces for people to gather reflects the very best of our business community.”
This story was co-authored by Dave DeMille, ddemille@gannett.com, with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Journalists were involved in every step of the information gathering, review, editing and publishing process. Learn more at cm.usatoday.com/ethical-conduct.
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