Spuntini means “small snack” in Italian, a nod to co-owner Andy Ariano’s Italian heritage.
NEWPORT NEWS, Va. — What started as a simple attempt to meet new people during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic after a Navy relocation has turned into a thriving neighborhood bakery.
Andy and Megan Ariano came to Hampton Roads in 2020, just as the world was shutting down. Looking for connection and a sense of community, Megan headed to the local farmers market.
“I thought I could maybe meet people through the farmers market,” she said, “And maybe just sell some bread. The first week we were there I sold all of our bread.”
The couple eventually expanded their operation, officially opening Spuntini in October. It’s a small-batch, from-scratch bakery located in the Hilton Village neighborhood of Newport News.
“We don’t have a lot of seating, but the seating that’s there, people all sit together,” said Andy. “Strangers strike up conversations. We just want people to be comfortable, relaxed.”
Spuntini’s menu changes weekly, offering a rotating selection of fresh lunch options, homemade breads and crackers, along with Italian-inspired pastries like biscotti and cornetti. The bakery doesn’t serve meat, but offers alternative options. The Ariano’s BLTA (A for avocado) features rice paper bacon.
The Arianos say food has always been a cornerstone of their relationship.
“Andy and I enjoy each other’s company and we both love food, that was something we connected on very early on in our relationship,” said Megan.
While Megan leads the baking, Andy’s Italian roots are behind the shop’s name and culinary direction.
“The name means small snack in Italian. I’m from Italy, I was five when we first came to the states,” Andy explained. “We try to keep it that way with some Italian flair.”
Whether you’re stopping by for lunch, a cup of coffee, or a loaf of bread to go, Spuntini’s welcoming atmosphere and fresh ingredients keep customers coming back.
“We love meeting people and building relationships with them. That’s one thing that’s been sort of a gift to us, we didn’t realize we were going to gain when starting it,” Megan said.
Spuntini is open Thursday through Sunday and is located at 10373 Warwick Blvd. in Newport News.
This piece is part of 13News Now’s weekly Friday Flavor segment. If you have an idea of where Marta Berglund should visit next, send her an email at mberglund@13newsnow.com or message her on social media.
Dining and Cooking