If you want to feel like The Godfather, head to Caffe Reggio in Coquitlam's historic Maillardville for an espresso, gelato or a meaty sandwich.
In the open concept café with brick and tile decor, you'll find Matteo Belmonte and Bruno Papa serving up a wide-range of specialties for breakfast, snacks and lunch.
With the help of mom, Maria, and Belmonte's sister, Talia, the long-time Coquitlam resident and his uncle Papa are creating some some big hearty, sandwiches.
It's probably not surprising for the Italian-style eatery that a sandwich called The Don, is the most popular.
It features Genoa salami, Calabrese salami, Mortadella salami, Capicola, prosciutto, tomatoes, red pepper, arugula, mozzarella and pesto mayo.
That's enough stuffing to make you feel like a boss.
The sandwiches are made fresh, upon order — no sitting in a case wrapped in plastic.
So far the locals have been enjoying the new café since it launched last Wednesday, (Sept. 13), with a soft opening.
A grand opening is planned for later this fall.
"It's been pretty busy; it's been crazy at lunch," said Belmonte, who grew up in Coquitlam.
He and Papa — who previously owned a cafe in Kitsilano, where Belmonte worked during COVID-19 — decided to team up for this new enterprise, which is located at 930 Brunette Ave. in the "heart of Maillardville."
"We said 'let's put it together,'" said Belmonte, who explained the name 'Caffe Reggio' is a nod to the family's town of origin in southern Italy.
He hopes Caffe Reggio will become a local meeting place and says eventually the large space could be rented out for parties.
For now though, he's working on developing a loyal clientele, with weekly sandwich deals and new sandwiches for people to try.
The gelato, made locally, is also pretty popular, including flavours 'cookies and cream' and mango sorbet.
A coffee drink called the Shaken Espresso is among the local favourites.
In addition to several sandwiches and soups, including vegetarian offerings, Caffe Reggio also offers some breakfast treats and all croissants, scones and muffins are baked by Belmonte in his shop.
There is also indoor seating, with more to come.
The hours are:
- 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday
- 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday
Stay up to date with Caffe Reggio, by following the business on Instagram and Facebook.
