Food Network Names The Best Deli In CT

STRATFORD, CT — The Food Network took a deep dive into that classic American deli experience, naming its top deli for all 50 states. The winner for Connecticut was Gaetano's Deli in Stratford.

Gaetano's is an Arthur Avenue-style establishment, where owners Guy Catalano and Milanno Ukehaxhaj got their start before bringing their own Italian-style delicatessen in Stratford. They later expanded with two additional locations in Monroe and Westport.

"The selection of panini alone takes up nearly an entire page of the menu, " the article reads, "with more than 20 different ways to fill the grilled sandwiches. Each one starts with Italian bread picked up daily from Addeo’s Bakery in the Bronx, which is then piled high with classic deli meats. Options include bresaola (cured filet mignon), Oldani salami and plenty of Boar’s Head varieties."

The shop's Italian-style grocery also gets praise for its housemade mozzarella and stuffed breads.

Catalano and Ukehaxhaj started working together about 25 years ago in the Bronx neighborhood they consider the "real" Little Italy.

"They learned the old fashioned deli business from some of the best," according to their website.

The owners opened the Stratford shop more than 20 years ago. They pride themselves on bringing the highest-quality imported and domestic cheeses and cured meats for making "amazing dishes and sandwiches that can stand up to the best Italian kitchens."

The deli also gets high marks on Yelp, with a 4.5-star rating. One reviewer raves: "Amazing! I am the toughest critic on sandwich shops...I'm from the New York City metro area where Italian and Jewish delicatessens set the bar and good sandwich making is a high art.

"With that said, my highest praise for Gaetano's for being the real deal: overstuffed delicious subs, authentic ingredients, crispy bread, friendly but brusque counter help, speedy turnaround, etc."