Stefano's Golden Baked Hams

Opened originally as Golden Baked Hams in August 2002, Frank and Colleen Stefano has grown the business to occupy two suites with dine-in and take-out service, catering, and local artisan made pantry. If you have ever been to a neighborhood Italian market, you’ll get the same great feeling when you step foot inside the restaurant. It’s all about family and great food at Stefano’s, from the homemade deli selection to the jaw-dropping creations by Chef Frankie, Colleen and Frank’s son. Their daughter, Alana, heads up the Catering and Events part of the business.

It wasn't here in a while. We've given an order for Christmas for her baked ham. While we chose a quick lunch. My husband ordered the cranberry turkey on a roll. He said I was delicious. I tried the cold uncle with cold cuts. I didn't know it had Pesto. I didn't read all the ingredients as I forgot my glasses. My fault. But I felt the sandwich was a bit economical. I don't remember her sandwiches. The Crab Chowder, although it had shells, did not taste like the Chowder I used to eat. I was disappointed with my decisions. Something just doesn't seem the same. I bought some ham and it was still delicious. I think their sandwiches could be much better. It was hard on bread and easy on meat.

One of my favorite sandwich places in Orange County and trust me, that says a lot. Besides ham, these guys specialize in paninis, and literally nobody makes them better. Most of their sandwiches pair perfectly with their homemade soups. The Bostoner is my sandwich, and I'll take it with her fabulous tomato bisque. Sure, it'll knock a week out of your life, but let's be honest, you don't want to be here for the last week anyway. These guys had another location in South County that was recently closed, and I have no idea how that could happen. Probably a bad leasing, a bad location or just bad marketing. These guys should have 10 locations so far. 100% recommend this place.

Friendly staff. Store seems clean. A classic Italian hoagie. Pesto Mayo is good. Bread is good for the west coast. Very little meat and cheese. Too much salad and roasted paprika. Will go back to a pinch, but still looking for a big hoagie in OC, except Cortina?s.

The original golden baked hampanini is delicious! They also offer seasonal an incredible lobster roll, only on Friday.