The theme of this blog post is Support Local. No matter where your travels take you, it is important to support local businesses. November is just around the corner, and Small Business Saturday will be here before you know it. Take some time to support your local dining and shopping favorites in your hometown!

Nestled in the town of Plains, Pennsylvania, not far from where I grew up, is an Italian treasure. Gigio’s Subs n’ More is not just any Italian restaurant but is a home away from home. Owners Judy and Joe Deleo welcome all with open arms and full pasta bowls.

Joe and Judy worked with me when I was still in the newspaper business. They were always ready to share the latest special, all homemade. I called ahead and reserved a nice table for my mom and me on a Saturday night.

The restaurant is cozy with calm, relaxing music and dimmed lights. Judy greets you with a big “Hello!” and you are escorted to your table by her husband, Joe, who always asks how your family is or how your day is going. They are the epitome of kind in every way, always willing to adjust a recipe or go the extra mile to make guests feel special.

We feasted on homemade fresh Italian dishes and enjoyed ourselves. The restaurant is only minutes from 81 South or North — next time you are headed to New York City from the south or headed to Philadelphia from the north, make a pit stop and visit my friends Joe and Judy. Her homemade meatballs are unmatched!

The most important aspect of dining with the Deleos is a sense of home. There are not many places you can frequent or visit these days that offer a warm welcome in a relaxed atmosphere. Check them out on Facebook at Gigio’s Subs n’ More and tell them Stephanie sent you!

And remember, as Judy says, “Mangia, bella, mangia!”

— Stephanie Makowski, account executive