The stretch between Albany and Troy holds some incredible Italian food treasures that many people drive right past without knowing. Family-owned delis and markets have been serving authentic Italian specialties for decades in this area. These hidden spots offer everything from fresh-made subs and homemade sauces to imported cheeses and traditional pastries. Get ready to discover your new favorite Italian deli right in your backyard.
1. Cardona’s Market — Latham
Family recipes have been the backbone of this beloved market since 1945, making it a true neighborhood institution. Located just off Route 9, Cardona’s serves up incredible hot and cold heroes that locals swear by.
Their homemade meatballs and cutlets are prepared fresh daily using traditional Italian methods. The prepared meals section saves busy families time while delivering authentic flavors.
Whether you need imported pasta for Sunday dinner or a quick lunch sub, this market combines old-world charm with modern convenience perfectly.
2. Ragonese Italian Imports — Albany
Walking into Ragonese feels like stepping into your Italian grandmother’s kitchen, complete with amazing aromas and warm hospitality. The prepared-foods case overflows with classic comfort dishes like eggplant parmigiana and baked ziti.
Their stuffed shells are legendary among Albany locals who often order them for family gatherings. Classic submarine sandwiches are built with generous portions of quality meats and cheeses.
This New Scotland Avenue gem proves that neighborhood delis can compete with any fancy restaurant when passion drives the cooking.
3. Pellegrino Importing Co. — Albany/Colonie
Old-school Italian importing meets modern deli service at this Central Avenue landmark that has weathered decades of change. Massive submarine sandwiches are their calling card, stuffed so full you might need help finishing them.
The import section features hard-to-find Italian groceries that home cooks treasure for authentic recipes. Shelves lined with imported olive oils, vinegars, and specialty items transport you straight to Italy.
This family business understands that quality ingredients make all the difference in creating memorable meals at home.
4. DeFazio’s Italian Import Store — Troy
Right next to the famous pizzeria sits a treasure trove of Italian specialties that many visitors completely miss. The DeFazio family operates this import store with the same dedication to quality that made their pizza legendary.
House-made sauces are prepared using recipes passed down through generations of Italian cooking traditions. Fresh meats are sliced to order while imported staples fill every corner of this cozy shop.
Smart locals know to stock up here before hosting dinner parties or preparing special family meals.
5. Bella Napoli Italian Bakery — Latham & Troy
Sweet aromas greet customers at both locations of this beloved bakery that also happens to make outstanding Italian mix subs. The Latham shop specializes in those famous sandwiches that have locals lining up during lunch hours.
Traditional Italian pastries and custom cakes showcase the bakers’ incredible skills and attention to detail. Both locations maintain authentic recipes while serving their respective communities with pride.
This dual-location success story proves that quality Italian food creates loyal customers no matter where you set up shop.
6. Roma Foods Legacy at Cardona’s Latham
Nostalgia runs deep for customers who grew up enjoying Roma sandwiches and still find those same flavors today. When Cardona’s acquired Roma Foods, they preserved the imported-goods tradition that made the original so special.
The same Cobbee Road location continues serving those beloved sandwiches using time-tested recipes and quality ingredients. Long-time customers appreciate that their favorite Roma experience lives on under new ownership.
This acquisition story shows how Italian food traditions can survive and thrive when the right family takes over the legacy.
7. Giuseppe’s Pizzeria & Deli — Watervliet
Perfectly positioned between Albany and Troy, this Watervliet stalwart serves as the ideal midway stop for Italian food lovers. Their red-sauce trays are comfort food at its finest, perfect for feeding hungry families.
Italian submarine sandwiches are built with generous portions and fresh ingredients that satisfy even the biggest appetites. The pizza menu rounds out their offerings for customers wanting variety.
Local workers often grab lunch here, knowing they can count on consistent quality and reasonable prices every single time.
