Mozzarella, prosciutto, and paninis await at Panino Mio! 

On the bustling streets of Hastings in Burnaby, a new deli called Panino Mio has opened its doors, offering customers a fresh array of delicious authentic Italian sandwiches, drinks, sweets, and more. With plenty of outside and inside seating making it great for those sunny days.

The success of her family deli La Grotta del Formaggio in Vancouver’s Little Italy, inspired Sandra to open her own deli with her partner Steve. With lots of hard work and dedication Panino Mio is slowly becoming a place where people can gather for their genuine Italian foods made with care and commitment. 

The business has a neat and clean interior with a friendly, warm atmosphere. In addition, there are shelves and tables with packaged snacks and food on them, as well as a fridge packed with Italian sodas and other drinks for sale. Furthermore, there is seating by the window that can fit about six people as well as seating outside of the deli to enjoy your meal.

The employees all wear black shirts with the Panino Mio logo on them. When serving food, they wear gloves and have their hair tied back, making the place a hygienic area as well. At this establishment you can expect employees who consistently demonstrate a strong work ethic. I notice that they are able to communicate clearly with customers and other employees. Most importantly they can provide insight into the food they offer, like describing the flavor of something or recommending certain ingredients that will pair well with their sandwiches.  

When I visited, I was unsure of what to get as I was unfamiliar with most Italian foods. However, the employee helping me was able to guide me through the process describing each sauce, meat, and cheese that would pair nicely with the sandwich. When I got home to try it. it was packed with some of the best Italian meats and cheese. Each bite had so much flavor. Overall, it was a delicious and satisfying meal pairing it with an Italian soda made it an exceptional meal worth trying again.  

Customers can also expect many fairly priced Italian sodas either bottled or prepared by the workers. Among their most popular food options there are the sandwiches. At the sandwich building station you can pick from a diverse selection of Italian breads, cheeses, meats, sauces, and other fresh ingredients you may need. Additionally, they also offer an array of candy, chocolate, and other sweet treats if you’re looking for something sugary instead of savoury.   

A sandwich there costs between $10 and $15 depending on the size. Some diners state that the sandwiches are worth it for the price as they are about the same price and size as the popular sandwich chain “Subway” however, Panino Mio offers fresher ingredients as well as the support of local Canadian-owned businesses.  

One of the co-owners Sandra says she was inspired by the success of La Grotta, her grandfather’s business. “I grew up with seeing my grandpa running the deli since I was one” she says. When she opened her own deli, she would apply her skills in culinary work plus her previous deli experience to run Panino Mio.  

Steve, the other co-owner, has previous skills in business management working for big companies such as the popular chain Lululemon. When asked what the hardest part of co ownership was they said “Agreeing with each other can be difficult” but none the less, with Sandra’s skills in culinary work and Steve’s history working in business management these co-owners sure make a balanced duo.  

The owners say running the deli is a rewarding experience. “Seeing people enjoy our sandwiches,” Sandra says, “is one of the best parts about running Panino Mio.” 

Whether you’re craving something sweet or savoury this family deli is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the moment one delicious bite at a time.  

Image Credit: Mondo H