Come share in the passion of authentic Italian food with Italia Panetteria & Deli. The aroma of fresh bread abounds as bottles of extra virgin olive oil and other Italian goods line the shelves. Fresh Prosciutto, amongst other delectable Italian cold cuts and pastas fill the deli case. In one afternoon, I rediscovered the classic traditions and true tastes of Italy, leaving me with a lasting impression and wanting more.
I was greeted with a smile as I walked into family-owned and operated Italia Panetteria & Deli. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, the perfect place to dine for lunch or dinner, to pick up a meal on the go, or to peruse and shop for that special Italian dish to make at home. Owners John and Vicki Magnanimo, who have been a part of the Italian tradition for over 38 years with their deli in Granada Hills, brought a little bit of Italy to the Santa Clarita Valley in 2008, serving up authentic dishes, providing their customers with the ultimate Italian experience.
I began the review with three mouthwatering pizzas, made fresh using ingredients that are available to purchase, take home and bake. From fresh dough, Italian pepperoni, pizza sauces, your choice of a variety of cheeses and much, much more, you too, can have that perfect taste of Italy in your own home, making and tailoring your pizza to your liking. You can purchase enough dough to feed the family or an entire party- you decide. Top your pizzas with whatever your heart desires, and what’s best about it is that all the Italian fixings are available at Italia.
As Vicki and John brought out the pizzas, I wanted to devour it down to the tiniest morsel, but knew I had to leave room for more Italian dishes to come. The three pizzas were prepared with fresh dough and homemade sauce, using only the freshest and highest quality ingredients, and the taste proved to be perfection. I tried a classic and popular pepperoni pizza, margherita pizza made with mozzarella cheese and basil along with a delicious pizza topped with fresh prosciutto and bell peppers. The tastes were to die for, and I immediately wanted to have my hand in the kitchen to try making my own pizza!
Next on the list to try was the ever so delicious and beautifully plated Caprese Salad. Not only was it pleasing to the eye, but also incredibly tantalizing to the taste buds. Freshly sliced mozzarella, Roma tomatoes, basil and pesto with extra virgin olive oil and a delightful Balsamic glaze. This salad is perfect to start with any meal. Pick up a Caprese Salad or make your own, Italia has it all.
Another delicious side you must try and make (it’s off the menu) is freshly sliced cantaloupe wrapped in prosciutto. A classic and traditional appetizer, it is one of the easiest and tastiest summer dish. Simply roll Prosciutto (available at Italia) around sliced cantaloupe, and your mouth will water. The combination of the sweet and salty tastes makes for a perfect spring or summer appetizer.
One of Italia’s popular hot specialties is their Eggplant Parmigiana, and there’s no doubt why customers love it so much. This warm Italian dish is layered with fresh cheese and tomato sauce with an eggplant filling. As I sunk my knife into this savory dish, I couldn’t wait to try it. Sure enough, the meal bursted with flavor, and the portion served was enough to keep me full for days!
If it’s sandwiches you’re craving, Italia is the place to be. From cold to hot, Italia specializes in freshly baked Italian bread and quality sandwiches. John and Vicki served up one of their classic Italian meatball sandwiches- simple, but oh so good. The perfectly seasoned meatballs smothered with sauce and cheese on a freshly baked hard roll was absolutely heavenly!
To end my dining experience, John and Vicki brought out a rich homemade New York Style Cheesecake that I couldn’t wait to try. Available by the slice or in its entirety, this is surely the best way to finish off a perfect Italian meal.
It is difficult to sum up all the wonderful things about Italia Panneteria & Deli in one review because there’s just so much to talk about. From the amazing and friendly owners, John and Vicki, who welcome their customers like family, to the delectable dishes they serve and imported groceries they offer. You can’t get enough of Italia without experiencing it for yourself.
Come in and enjoy a sandwich in a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere. Their Italian deli offers a wide selection of imported foods including cheeses, bread, desserts, deli cold cuts, pasta sauces and much more. If you’re planning a meal, come by and pick up a few ingredients to make your dish all the more authentic. And if it’s a party you’re having, impress your guests with catered food from Italia. From start to finish, they make your party complete. See their online catering menu for more details.
Italia Panetteria & Deli is located at 27647 Newhall Ranch Road, Suite 55 in Valencia. Stop by and enjoy the tastes of Italy. I assure you, you won’t be disappointed.
For more information or catering opportunities, call 661-294-9069 or visit www.italiavalencia.com.
