In the early 1900s, Giovanni Amato, an Italian immigrant, embarked on a culinary journey that would forever change the landscape of sandwiches. He set up a modest food cart on the docks of Portland, where he crafted freshly baked rolls stuffed with a medley of meats, cheeses, and crisp, garden-fresh vegetables. This ingenious creation marked the birth of the Italian sandwich as we know it today.
Giovanni, alongside his wife Michelina, later established their first brick-and-mortar eatery on India Street. Back then, India Street was a thriving hub for Italian immigrants who had made Portland their home. Remarkably, this iconic India Street location remains in operation to this day, albeit in a more modern building.
The Amato family remained the proud owners of Amato’s until 1972 when they passed the torch to a dedicated employee, Dominic Reali. Dominic continues to be the owner of Amato’s, preserving its rich heritage and delicious tradition.
Fast forward to today, Amato’s has expanded its footprint, with locations across Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and Vermont. Beyond their beloved sandwich shops, Amato’s culinary delights, including their delectable tomato sauce and pickles, have made their way onto the shelves of grocery stores across New England, ensuring that the legacy of Giovanni Amato’s culinary innovation endures for generations to come.