Panezanellie's -Sublimity

 
~KandN
On our way back home to Salem, a Sly & the Family Stone song, "It's a Family Affair", began running through my head - seemed so appropriate after dining at Panezanellie's, Wednesday evening. The thunderstorm, with it's whipping winds, made for a dramatic drive on the back roads to Sublimity, but thanks to google maps street view, we knew exactly what landmarks to look for and drove right to the restaurant. We parked in front and dashed to the front door.

The small shop/restaurant reminded me of grandma's house. It's jam packed with cookbooks, tea pots, knick knacks, etc. In the front dining area there are 3 small cafe tables. The order counter has a small display case with a pizza you can buy by the slice, right beside is a rack with loaves of bread for sale. On the opposite side is a larger deli display case with salads and if you turn around you'll find a small refrigerator with cannoli and gelato. Whew! So much to see and eat!

The friendly young woman behind the counter greeted us and handed us a menu. We compromised on a pizza pie - half Nellie Belle and half Old School. Then we each picked out a bottle of beer and sat at a cozy table for two next to a table with another couple. Our beautiful pizza arrived about 15 - 17 minutes later. The crust was thick, soft and slightly sweet. The sausage on Old School had a nice flavor with a zing, the peppers were sweet and fresh. I couldn't find one thing I didn't like - it was delicious pizza. Although, I will admit, the slight sweetness in the crust took a bite or two to get accustomed to.

N enjoyed the pizza, too, but wasn't as enthralled as I. He wished the sauce had some Italian spices added to it and overall more flavor. The pie was so filling, we were only able to eat half. (I'm not complaining - I love leftover pizza.) Also, due to our late arrival it was closing time - another reason to think about hitting the road. One of the owners, came out to the dining area to tidy up. He stopped and asked how we were doing and told us that the entire family works at the restaurant. As if on cue, a quarrel between siblings began in the kitchen. That's when the song began to run through my head -
"It's a family affair . . ."
{P.S. leftover update - It was better fresh .}

111 NE Starr St.
Sublimity, Oregon
503 767-7849