| Panificio has a long and storied history that pre-dates the restaurant, which first opened it doors 1996, breathing new life into the North Side of Charles Street. The owner, Chris Spagnuolo, and his sister Lisa, come from a family whose renowned Italian bakeries turned out Old World breads and pastries from locations in Belmont Center, Dennisport, Newton, and now Beacon Hill. Chris is a third generation family baker, having learned the trade from his father, who learned it in turn from his father before that. Grandfather Spagnuolo used to work for the original Mister Donut, the precursor to the Dunkin' Donuts we are all so familiar with now, and yes, Michael Vale's 'time to make the donuts' is loosely based on his dedication to the craft! Back in Dennisport, Grandfather Spags would bring home the leftover donuts on summer days and Chris would dole them out to all the kids on the block and they would have donut wars, which resulted in keeping the local raccoons and dogs happy, well fed and out of trouble. Today, Panificio keeps neighbors and tourists happy, well fed and out of trouble, (food trouble, that is) by serving up the freshest, locally sourced foods and freshly baked goods at great prices. No longer just a bakery, Panificio is a Beacon Hill hot spot at night with a trendy wine bar and stylish dinner specials, all prepared in an open kitchen! To show our support for the the local food movement, this summer Panificio has teamed up with Sweet Georgia P, the first CSA Farm to service Beacon Hill, whose members pick up their fresh, organic produce once a week in front of the cafe.
So stop on in to get your own tasty slice of 'local flavor' from our family. It might not make history, but it will make your taste buds smile. |
