Change is in the air for a beloved North Raleigh Italian eatery! Bongiorno & Son, a sandwich shop celebrated for its authentic Italian flavors, is about to undergo a significant transformation. The business, a local favorite in Lafayette Village, is changing hands, and with it, its name. But what does this mean for loyal customers? Let's dive in.
After opening its doors in 2020, founder Michael Bongiorno made the decision to sell the business to Dave and Sarah Danevich, long-time admirers of the market. Bongiorno shared that he saw a need for a genuine Italian market and deli in the area. He successfully built the business into a thriving establishment.
It's important to note that the recently opened Bongiorno & Son at RDU is a licensing deal and not part of this sale.
A Legacy of Flavor:
Bongiorno & Son quickly became known for its exceptional Italian-style sandwiches. These culinary creations were crafted with imported cured meats, vibrant peppers, and bread sourced from New York. The market also offered a selection of gourmet Italian goods, including artisan olive oils, housemade mozzarella, fresh and dried pastas, and an impressive wine selection. Take-home meals and catering services further enhanced the shop's appeal.
"Our focus is on quality ingredients – people are willing to pay for quality," Bongiorno emphasized. "We've had a wonderful journey. While I'm sad to see it end, I'm always looking forward to what's next."
A Familiar Story:
This isn't the first time Bongiorno has opened and sold a successful restaurant. Before Bongiorno & Son, he owned Zanyu Asian Noodles, also in Lafayette Village, which received a four-star review from a former News & Observer dining critic. Zanyu was sold in 2018 after three years and closed last year.
The Next Chapter: Mina's Italian Market
Bongiorno will assist the Daneviches with the transition over the next month. Within six months, the market will be rebranded as Mina's. The name, pronounced "My-nas," pays homage to a family tradition of storekeeping that dates back over a century, as shared by Sarah Danevich.
Dave Danevich expressed his excitement about carrying on the market tradition under the Mina's name.
What to Expect:
But for devoted Bongiorno & Son fans, Dave Danevich assures that the essence of the market will remain unchanged. "Everything as it is now should remain the same," he said. "There could be a few new sandwiches or take-home meals we’re really passionate about. But we will keep that Italian, family-style market and are mostly going to leave it alone."
The new owners, both hailing from the Northeast, were drawn to Bongiorno & Son, as it reminded them of the Italian markets they missed in Raleigh. The Daneviches previously worked in finance but dreamed of owning a small business.
"We were definitely passionate about finding something more meaningful that was serving the community," Dave Danevich explained.
Danevich also shared his experience working in various pizza shops during his high school and college years in New Hampshire, imagining his restaurant days were behind him. Now, with Mina’s, he hopes to build upon a restaurant that has been special to his family.
"(Mike) has the best eggplant, the best meatballs, the imports, the best stuff in-house," Danevich said. "We've been ordering catering there for years."
A New Venture: Pranzo
While one chapter closes, another is about to begin for the Bongiorno family. In the spring, they plan to launch Pranzo in the Exchange development in Raleigh, joining established restaurants like Peregrine and Toastique. Pranzo is still in development, with a family trip to Italy planned for research and inspiration. Bongiorno anticipates Pranzo will cater to the hundreds of office workers in The Exchange, offering lunch, after-work bites, and drinks.
At lunchtime, Pranzo will feature familiar sandwiches and some pastas. After 5 p.m., the focus will shift to aperitivo vibes, serving Italian small plates, wines by the glass, spritzes, and cocktails.
There may be a Sunday brunch and possibly meals to go, but the deli counter will not be a part of the new venture.
"We will not be slicing cold cuts," Bongiorno stated.
And this is the part most people miss... The success of Bongiorno & Son and the anticipation for Mina's and Pranzo highlight the ever-evolving nature of the food industry and the enduring appeal of authentic, quality cuisine.
What are your thoughts on the change? Do you think the new owners can maintain the same level of quality and charm? Share your opinions in the comments below!
