When the Bay Area’s original Genova Delicatessen closed in 2016, hundreds of people flocked to Oakland to pay their respects and nab one final sandwich. Now, the deli with roots dating back nearly a century has closed another location. The Genova Delicatessen at 2064 Treat Blvd. in Walnut Creek permanently closed on Nov. 15 after nearly 30 years, according to a sign on the window spotted by SFGATE (and first reported by the East Bay Times).
“We extend our heartfelt gratitude for your loyalty, support, and friendship over the years,” read the sign. “It has been our great pleasure and honor to serve you.” SFGATE could not reach the owner for comment in time for publication.
Genova Delicatessen’s other Walnut Creek location, at 1105 S. California Blvd., remains open, as does its Napa restaurant. The Italian deli known for its mortadella and salami-stuffed sandwiches, ravioli, and other Italian goods has now been in the same family for four generations, although a different part of the family owns the Napa location.
Lorenzo Balbi and Pietro Pira opened the original deli in Oakland’s Temescal in 1926, named after Balbi’s hometown of Genoa. After its 2016 closure due to a rent dispute, the iconic Temescal space become home to popular restaurant and wine bar Snail Bar in 2021. When the old-school Italian joint closed, Oaklanders mourned the loss of a one-of-a-kind neighborhood gem…