La Gioia Deli

Inside is a standard Italian market/deli. First timer during lunch, didn't have to wait long. Ordered the Italian mix (half-sub) and a bottle of Pepsi. $7. Even though it wasn't busy the counter gal put my sub in a brown bag and didn't give me a napkin. Perhaps that cost extra? Subs don't come with lettuce, onion and tomato unless you ask AND pay more for it. Seems wrong but it's their business and they get to run it as they see fit. The actual sub was pretty damn good. The meat and cheese was fresh sliced ( Boar's Head) and the roll was fresh and tasty. Worth stopping in if you are in the area and want a sub for lunch.

The store is aptly named and was indeed a 'Joy' to visit. After losing the Italian deli in Saratoga that I've patronized for many years to a buyer from Albany that doesn't even answer the phone, I began a search for a true Italian deli. When I walked into La Gioia I knew I had found what I was looking for. The aroma of Italy in the air, the hustle bustle of a staff serving with professional knowledge, courtesy, and a neat and clean appearance, so rare today, and shelves and cases filled with all the Mediterranean delicacies imaginable, made me realize the true gem I had discovered. This was a wonderful epiphany for me; I smiled all the way home 30 miles away.