Sometimes, the best culinary discoveries happen unexpectedly. This was certainly the case when I stumbled upon Vitamia & Sons in Lodi, NJ. A severe storm had shut down most local restaurants, but this Italian bakery, pasta factory, and deli remained open, a beacon of deliciousness on Harrison Avenue. With over 41 years in business, Vitamia & Sons offers a taste of authentic Sicilian cuisine that rivals even Arthur Avenue in the Bronx.
Vitamia & Sons’ exterior showcasing its traditional bakery facade in Lodi NJ.
A True Italian Deli Experience
Vitamia & Sons is more than just a food business; it’s a sensory experience. The aroma of fresh bread and pasta fills the air, promising a culinary adventure. This is the real deal, hardcore Sicilian-style baked goods, pasta, and prepared specialties. It’s a place that deserves recognition, a hidden gem brimming with the flavors of Italy.
Variety of freshly baked Italian breads and pastries available at Ya Food Lodi Nj.
A showcase of Italian deli meats and cheeses inside Ya Food Lodi NJ, highlighting the deli’s selection.
Assorted Italian grocery items on shelves, offering a wide range of products at Ya Food Lodi NJ.
Meeting Paulie: The Heart of Vitamia
The experience at Vitamia is amplified by the people who run it. Paulie, along with his brother Pino, embodies the spirit of the deli. Paulie is a true conversationalist, incredibly knowledgeable about Italian food and wine (he even makes his own!). He’s eager to share his passion and offer tastings of aged Provolones, Parmigianos, Prosciutto di Parmas, and Culatellos. A visit to Vitamia is not just a meal, it’s an education.
Paulie, a key figure at Ya Food Lodi NJ, stands proudly behind the counter ready to serve customers.
Paulie and Pino at Ya Food Lodi NJ, wearing Trinacria T-shirts, showcasing their Sicilian pride.
Must-Try Delicacies
Vitamia & Sons offers a wide array of mouthwatering options. Here are a few highlights:
- Fresh Mozzarella and Prosciutto Sandwich: A simple yet perfect combination of flavors on freshly baked Vitamia bread. The balsamic vinegar adds a tangy kick.
A fresh mozzarella, prosciutto, and marinated peppers sandwich served at Ya Food Lodi NJ.
A close-up view of the sandwich, showcasing the fresh ingredients used at Ya Food Lodi NJ.
- “Appeteaser” (Marinated Hot Pepper Stuffed with Sorpressata and Provolone): A delightful explosion of flavors and textures.
A marinated hot pepper stuffed with Sorpressata and Provolone, a tasty appetizer at Ya Food Lodi NJ.
- Arancini: Delicious saffron rice balls stuffed with cheese and meat, a Sicilian specialty.
Display of Arancini and other prepared foods for sale at Ya Food Lodi NJ.
- Stuffed Breads: The sausage bread is a standout, perfect at room temperature or heated.
A freshly baked sausage bread available at Ya Food Lodi NJ.
- Focaccia with Fresh Mozzarella, Tomatoes, and Basil: A simple yet elegant dish bursting with fresh, garden-grown flavors.
Vitamia’s focaccia topped with fresh mozzarella, garden tomatoes, and basil at Ya Food Lodi NJ.
- Cannolis: Decadent pastries filled with marscapone cheese and candied orange peel.
Cannolis filled with marscapone cheese and candied orange peel, a decadent dessert at Ya Food Lodi NJ.
- Ravioli: Vitamia is renowned for its fresh pastas and sauces. Try the traditional Sicilian ricotta and parsley-filled ravioli, boiled and tossed in a simple tomato sauce, or baked with mozzarella. Paulie recommends the baked version!
Boiled Vitamia ravioli in San Marzano tomato sauce with Parmigiano Reggiano, a classic dish at Ya Food Lodi NJ.
Baked Vitamia ravioli with fresh mozzarella, a Sicilian favorite served at Ya Food Lodi NJ.
Ya Food Lodi NJ: A Culinary Destination
Vitamia & Sons is more than just a place to eat; it’s a culinary destination. It’s a place where you can experience the authentic flavors of Sicily, learn about Italian food from passionate experts, and feel like part of the family. If you’re looking for Ya Food Lodi NJ, look no further than Vitamia & Sons. Their address is 206 Harrison Ave, Lodi NJ 07644 and you can reach them at (800)PASTA-UNO or visit their website at http://www.pastaboy.com. Don’t miss out on this hidden gem!
