Food Network names best deli in Connecticut

Pedro Escobar, of Bridgeport, makes a three foot Italian combo sandwich at Gaetano's Deli on Barnum Avenue in Stratford, Conn. on Sunday, February 5, 2017. Pedro Escobar, of Bridgeport, makes a three foot Italian combo sandwich at Gaetano's Deli on Barnum Avenue in Stratford, Conn. on Sunday, February 5, 2017. Photo: Brian A. Pounds, Hearst Connecticut Media Buy photo Photo: Brian A. Pounds, Hearst Connecticut Media Image 1 of / 30 Caption Close Food Network names best deli in Connecticut 1 / 30 Back to Gallery

The Food Network set out to find the best deli in each state, and their Connecticut search brought them to Gaetano's in Stratford.

Citing the owners' start on Arthur Avenue in the Bronx, Food Network praises the deli for its selection of Italian groceries, paninis and fresh bread picked up daily from Addeo’s Bakery in the Bronx.

Owner Milanno Ukehaxhaj said he is "humbled" by the endorsement, and "thankful for all the customers that made us number one."

The deli posted the Food Network article on its Facebook page, and the post garnered 151 comments from customers like:

"CONGRATULATIONS! Been going to you for the past 20 years when I moved to Stratford from The Bronx."

"Of course! The Greatest Italian Deli in the USA, in my opinion!! We have been faithful customers in Stratford since my son discovered it while he was in high school in 2000! Love the food: hero’s & catering, the service & especially the personal touch Milano, Guy & especially Angelo, who is so attentive to our every order in Stratford!!! Recognition well deserved!!"

Ukehaxhaj said what sets Gaetano's apart from other delis is that they "put their heart and soul into it" and do it "for the love of the job and the love of the people."



For those who have never tried a Gaetano's sandwich, Ukehaxhaj recommends the Kovaks Special, which is made with chicken cutlet, prosciutto, mozzarella, roasted red peppers and broccoli rabe.



Gaetano's also has locations in Monroe and Westport, and is opening a fourth location in Shelton this year.