DeFalco's Italian Deli & Grocery — Restaurant in Scottsdale

Let’s start with the fact that me and my wife walked in and there was a woman I’d guess to be about late 50’s early 60’s with whom I’m guessing were her grandkids… Walked up to the register as we were first In line and said “excuse me honey, I just have a question” to me and my lady as we’re about to order. She says to the register girl. Hey we just got our order which is a full pizza can I have some plates so they do t have to eat with their hands. Immediately the girl acts like she can’t hear her and says “you literally said you were ordering for take out” to the older woman with her kids standing there right behind their grama…….😳😳😳😳😳😳 Uh … ok.. The grama says I never said that but what does that matter I would like some plates. The girl walks away without saying a word and sends some giggly kid to bring the plates to the woman’s table with the kids. How embarrassing.. So now to my part of the review, I want anybody and everybody to know this. As a customer , DO NOT CURSE WHEN TALKING TO ME AS IF WE ARE HIGH SCHOOL PALS OR FRIENDS WHO TALK LOOSELY AMONGST ONE ANOTHER.. I am not your buddy. So after the guy who has a foul mouth takes our order we get home with our takeout and the entire order is wrong. I sit down open up all of the boxes which consisted of a meat/protein less pasta with just white sauce 2 garlic knots and an extremely soggy sandwich. I call and explain the situation and get put on hold and get picked up by a guy named John who SAYS he was the manager. I do not believe this kid to be a manager and if he IS in fact the manager this establishment should be ashamed of themselves for their lack of due diligence on finding a proper hire. I explain everything I ordered and my name and he says “that’s your name” as if I was lying or as if it was supposed to be something else. confused but whatever let’s continue. He says hold on I need a sec, Hold on I need a sec, Hold on I need a sec. Ok take your time , I say. Hold on I need just a sec, AH got it. Trying to figure out how you paid. No problem John take your time, Ok so what was wrong with it. I say well I just told you what was wrong with my order and you said hold on let me find out how you paid… could have simply asked me , but I understand for refund option purposes. He all of a sudden says hey man , how bout you calm down I’m looking into it. 🤣 ok? This gentlemen literally says to me we’re both men here I expect you to talk to me as so 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣 the manager of this place John 🤣🤣🤣🤣 I admit , I was very assertive with my questions and am strong with my words but never did I curse, never did I even complain, I just simply was straight forward in asking him what my refund options were if any. Whoever is HIS boss I’d be ashamed to be having such an unprofessional attitude and character represent my establishment. Then when he finally says “you know what, I’m gonna refund the entire meal” I say thank you , he says are you happy? Is there anything else he can do for me 🤣🤣🤣🤣 I honestly Felt like I called a liquor store and told them my tequila was stale . This place is a mess all around and needs some SERIOUS professionalism development .. all throughout this interaction like I said I did not curse I did not yell , I did not name call , but I did ask him when he continued to disrespect me a paying customer I continued to ask him am I not within my right to be upset when I pay $70 for a meal and it’s incorrect? He had no answer , seemed like the guy just wanted to argue.

Save your money and go to a real restaurant not some small hole in the wall deli that over prices their meals and can’t even get...

Here's a crafted review for DeFalco's Italian Deli in Scottsdale, Arizona:

A Culinary Journey at DeFalco's Italian Deli

DeFalco's Italian Deli in Scottsdale isn't just a place for a quick bite; it's an experience, a celebration of Italian culinary artistry right in the heart of Arizona. From the moment you walk in, you're enveloped by the aroma of freshly baked bread and the sight of meticulously prepared deli meats and cheeses, setting the stage for what promises to be a memorable meal.

The Atmosphere: The deli's ambiance transports you straight to the bustling streets of Italy. With its rustic decor, friendly chatter, and the hustle of staff crafting sandwiches behind the counter, there's an authenticity here that's hard to replicate. The space, though modest, feels warm and inviting, perfect for a casual lunch or a more leisurely dinner.

The Food:

Sandwiches: DeFalco's sandwiches are the crown jewels of the menu. Each one, whether it's the classic Italian combo or something more adventurous like the Maximus with its assortment of cured meats, is a masterpiece. The bread, crunchy on the outside and tender inside, holds together a symphony of flavors that doesn't just satisfy; it delights. The quality of the meat, the sharpness of the cheese, and the freshness of the vegetables are evident in every bite.

Deli Selection: Beyond sandwiches, the deli counter offers an array of Italian imports and local artisanal products. From aged provolones to homemade mozzarella, there's a treasure trove for any food enthusiast. The pasta section, with brands like De Cecco, speaks to the deli's commitment to quality.

Desserts: No visit is complete without trying their pastries. The cannoli, with its crispy shell and creamy, sweet filling, is a highlight, but the assortment of other treats, like sfogliatella or tiramisu, are equally tempting.

Service: The staff at DeFalco's are not mere servers; they're custodians of this culinary heritage. Knowledgeable and friendly, they guide you through the menu with passion, making your experience not just about the food, but about the culture and history behind it.

The Experience: What sets DeFalco's apart isn't just the food but the experience. It's about the family history, the stories of migration from Michigan to Arizona, and the commitment to preserving Italian culinary traditions. This isn't just eating; it's partaking in a legacy.

Why You Should Visit: DeFalco's Italian Deli isn't just for those with a hankering for an Italian sandwich; it's for anyone who appreciates where food comes from, how it's made, and the stories it tells. Whether you're a local looking for a piece of Scottsdale's culinary history or a visitor wanting to taste authentic Italian flavors, DeFalco's offers more than a meal. It offers a slice of life, seasoned with passion, tradition, and exquisite taste.

This place isn't just about eating; it's about experiencing Italy through every bite, every conversation, and every moment spent in its warm, inviting atmosphere. DeFalco's is not just a deli; it's a destination.

This review captures the essence of DeFalco's, focusing on its heritage, quality of food, and the unique experience it offers, drawing from the information available up to...

Update: 7/25/24 — I’ve ordered the Italian sausage and beef combo before, and enjoyed it very much. Today was a strange (odd) day where I discovered the sausage was split length-wise for each half of the whole sandwich; not a whole sausage. I asked to see and spoke with the manager, Art, who made another sandwich without splitting the sausage. In further discussion he said that’s how they’ve always done it. I’m at a loss for why as I’ve never encountered that at any other Italian deli. Has anyone else known this? In the future I guess I’ll have to ask that the sausage not be split or halved. I asked that question too about ordering a half: do they still split the sausage? Art said they do. I don’t know if I’d order this again if that’s the case. Only other concern was the salad case where they ran out of macaroni salad. How is it you don’t have more to fill the case during the peak of lunch hour? A little disappointed. As to the remodeling inside I like how it’s more open, and brighter. I should return to check out the wine varieties — see if there’s a good Chianti or a Montepulciano? FYI: service was slow. My observation is the menu no longer on the wall, and customers stuck at the register trying to figure out what they want? I hope they’ll return the menu that was behind the cold salad case on the wall.

Update: 6/24/23 — Ordered the Lasagna today. It was very good. Very few issues with this visit - ie missing side salad; no knife; inattentive cleaning of tables; and no paper towels in the men’s room. Good value for the food. Generous portions.

Update: 5/14/23 — Came this evening to try their pizza. Ordered a 12” with Italian sausage, mushrooms, and onions. The pizza came out fairly well. Outer crust was crisp and good. Some “fwop” in the center; so ordering next time to have the pizza cooked well should tighten it up. I had some concern seeing red onions used, but after the first slice those concerns were nothing to worry about. I don’t care for red onions. They have a unique bite that kills the palate. I’m not sure if they have sweet or yellow onions. I’ll be sure to inquire upon my next visit.

I’ve been here several times for lunch, or to buy bread or cannolis. The combo is quite good. Their Maximus could be a little spicier. It’s not like the delis I’ve been to in Chicago, but they’re close. The breads are good quality. Sadly they don’t have a slicer for slicing the loaves for the customers. Some loaves have an excess amount of flour on them; and the bags don’t always have ties on them. The Kalamata olives are nice — pitted and that nice salty flavor. Lastly, those who know will know: “leave the gun and take the cannolis.” Best to order...