Casa Basso

Written By Dino DiPietro

Here’s a detailed history of Casa Basso in Westhampton, NY, commonly referred to as “The Castle at Casa Basso,” tracing its origins and transformations over more than a century:

🏰 Early History & Castle Construction: Theophilus A. Brouwer (late 1800s–1904)

  • In the late 1800s, American sculptor, potter and artist Theophilus Anthony Brouwer Jr. acquired the property on Montauk Highway / Beaver Dam Creek. After travels in Spain, he built a castle-like studio, modeled after one near Seville, around 1902–1904, to house his pottery works for Brouwer Pottery and ceramics later known as “Hampton Ware.”

  • The grounds, including towering figures—like two 12-foot musketeers, lions, horses, mythological statues—became known as Pinewold Park, open to public view.

🍝 Restaurant Era Begins: Basso Family (1928–1958)

  • In 1928, restaurateur M.L. (Angelina "Mamma") Basso and Louis Basso opened Casa Basso adjacent to the castle. (Note: The Basso family had previously operated another Italian eatery in Southampton since 1923.)

  • The castle’s old pottery kiln later became part of the restaurant’s dining area.

🌟 Mid-Century Ownership: René Mondini (1958–1986)

  • Around 1958, Valerio “René” Mondini purchased Casa Basso, rebranding it as René’s Casa Basso, expanding the dining space with a more intimate lower room.

  • The unique charm of the castle and sculpture garden remained a central draw.

👨‍🍳 Bracovic Family Ownership (1986–2024)

  • In 1986, Bejto Bracovic, a longtime apprentice (and original dishwasher), and his wife Zyli “Julie” Bracovic acquired the restaurant. They restored the original name, Casa Basso, and upgraded crucial facilities: castle roof, plumbing, electrical systems.

  • Under their stewardship, the restaurant celebrated nearly a century of operation, gaining a reputation as a beloved local institution.

🕰️ Closure & Legacy: 2024 Transition

  • After 96 years in operation, Casa Basso closed on November 23, 2024.

  • The Town of Southampton entered a $4 million deal in December 2024, aiming to purchase the 1.5-acre site using Community Preservation Funds. The plan: demolish the restaurant building, restore marshland and waterfront access, but preserve the castle as an historic landmark/applicable art space.

🗺️ Summary Timeline

Late 1800s Brouwer acquires property

1902–1904 Castle/studio built by Theophilus A. Brouwer Jr.

1928Casa Basso restaurant opens (M.L. & Louis Basso)

1958 Sold to Valerio “René” Mondini

1986 Purchased by Bejto & Zyli Bracovic

Nov 2024 Business closes after 96 years

Dec 2024 Town of Southampton plans purchase & repurpose site

Cultural & Architectural Significance

  • Castle & sculptures built by Brouwer are beloved local landmarks, often described as "the most bizarre human creation on all Long Island."

  • The restaurant sustained a legacy of traditional Italian cuisine, combining culinary tradition with this unique ambiance.

  • Its closure marks the end of an era, but preservation efforts aim to maintain the site's historic and artistic value.

Dino DiPietro