Stepping into Delizioso, the Mannino family greets locals and students with a warm, authentic Italian dining experience that immediately transports diners to the heart of Sicily. The restaurant has been a fixture in the community for over 30 years with the Mannino family taking the reins nearly six years ago. Three years ago, they remodeled the space celebrates both family and Italian cuisine.
The interior décor of the restaurant is a homage to the family’s roots in Sicily, with photographs depicting landmarks near Rome and the surrounding areas near Palermo. Mannino’s inspiration for Delizioso comes from his family and where they are from in Italy.
“It [the restaurant] has pictures of where my family is from, and different places in Italy,” Ninfa Mannino, son of the owners of Delizioso, said.
The menu is full of classic Italian dishes, with Penne alla Vodka ranking as the most popular choice among patrons. Beyond the crowd favorites, the restaurant also highlights traditional Italian dishes with cultural significance, such as Arancini; fried rice balls containing peas and beef.
“[Arancini are] definitely a Sicilian dish.” said Mannino. “We also have croquettes… it’s like bread and mashed potatoes that are fried.”
Simple, but traditional cuisine. The food brings together Italy’s essential ingredients, tomatoes, cheese, and oregano to create the closest thing to a home cooked meal.
More than anything, Delizioso built an environment that emphasizes family and community. Members of the family run the restaurant, working closely together everyday, creating a cozy environment for all the customers who walk in everyday. With its personal touches, traditional Sicilian dishes, and
strong sense of connection, Delizioso continues to be a special place for students and locals alike.
“I like helping out. I love the customers. Customers are more family than my actual family,” Mannino said.
