Waterbury, CT September 20, 2010: The Nardelli family is being offered one more reason to brag this month: national recognition in Everyday With Rachael Ray. The October issue of the magazine, hitting newsstands this week, gives special mention to Nardelli’s grinders in an article titled “The Italy Lovers Guide to America.” Scott Conant, considered one of America’s greatest Italian chefs told Ray’s Everyday that his favorite grinder is Nardelli’s, “with Italian meats and hot peppers, with mayo and hot sauce that drips down my arm.” Conant, a Watertown native and host of Food Network’s 24 Hour Restaurant Battle, has received numerous accolades working as a chef in New York since the late 90’s, but was launched to fame in 2008 with the openings of his restaurant, Scarpetta, in New York and Miami.

The signature Nardelli’s grinder has become famous throughout Connecticut as a loaf of fresh-baked Italian bread stuffed high with top quality deli meats and fresh vegetables. Unique to a Nardelli’s grinder is the addition of their secret “classic mix,” a tasty marinade of peppers, onions and other vegetables, tossed in olive oil and vinegar with a proprietary blend of spices.

Each Nardelli’s location also offers crisp salads, prepared entrées, a broad beverage selection including Nardelli’s own old-fashioned bottled sodas, and Italian desserts. They accommodate inside dining and take-out orders, as well as provide catering for large family or business events.

Nardelli’s Grinder Shoppes was founded in 1920 by Joseph, Anthony and Frederico Nardelli. Having worked in a grocery store on Waterbury’s South Main Street since immigrating to the United States in 1914, they saved enough money to buy the store when it became available. Soon after, on a day trip to New York City, they saw “grinders,” large loaves of Italian bread filled with various meats, being purchased by laborers heading off to work. They decided to bring the idea back to their store, and the famous Nardelli’s grinder was born. Immediately, very long lines formed for this popular new food item, and that demand still exists today.

Nardelli’s grinders have been voted “Connecticut’s Best Grinder” by Connecticut Magazine 11 years straight, and Nardelli’s Grinder Shoppes have been featured on The Travel Channel as among the best sandwich destinations in the country. The company owns two locations in Naugatuck and Waterbury, Connecticut, and has franchised three additional locations in Waterbury, Southbury, and Danbury, Connecticut (opening October 2010). The company maintains a web site with complete information, including franchise opportunities at www.nardellis.com.