Genova Delicatessen is closing in Walnut Creek, and its last day will be Feb. 18.
The news comes just two months after the longstanding delicatessen confirmed it had closed its Treat Boulevard location.
The beloved East Bay deli chain, which operated in Oakland for 90 years before closing in 2016, has operated in Walnut Creek for 58 years.
Genova Delicatessen, which has operated in Walnut Creek for 58 years, announced its last day of local operations would be Feb. 18. (Martha Ross/Bay Area News Group)
“This was a heartfelt decision made after years of navigating increasing economic challenges,” the business said in an email statement. “We are deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve generations of Genova customers and to be part of this community for so long.”
On a rainy Tuesday afternoon, customers stopped in to order a favorite sandwich, slices of salami, a container of fresh tortellini soup or some of Genova’s famous ravioli and other fresh pasta. The line began to grow, and customers were lined up around the shop.
“I’ve just devastated,” said Jo McGinnis of Walnut Creek. “I’ve been coming here forever. It was a real shock to open my phone and read about the closure.”
McGinnis said she was disappointed to find the fresh turkey was gone — always a favorite in their house. She said she would miss that. But mostly she would miss the ambiance of an Italian deli and the people behind the counter, some of whom seemed to know her name. “Real Italians and what you’d expect,” she said.
The deli is offering sales of up to 50% off of its inventory in an everything-must-go sale, though sandwiches are not included. Additionally, its ravioli factory will continue to operate, and products will remain available at local markets.
Details: Open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. through Feb. 18 at 1105 S California Blvd., Walnut Creek; genovadelinapa.com.
Dining and Cooking