From Deli Counter to Restaurant Kitchens
How Marisa Foods Grew from a Neighborhood Italian Deli into a Trusted Foodservice Partner
Long before Marisa Foods supplied restaurants and professional kitchens across California, the story began behind a deli counter.
At the heart of that story is Santa Fe Importers, a neighborhood Italian deli that became known for its authentic sandwiches, imported ingredients, and time-honored family recipes.
For years, customers lined up for the flavors that defined the deli—fresh bread, traditional meats, and classic Italian recipes prepared the right way. What started as a local favorite quickly became a destination for people who appreciated authentic Italian food.
As demand grew, something unexpected happened: restaurants began asking for the same ingredients used behind the deli counter.
That moment helped spark the creation of Marisa Foods.
The Beginning of Marisa Foods
The transition from deli to manufacturer wasn’t about expansion for its own sake. It was about preserving quality while meeting the needs of professional kitchens.
The recipes that worked so well for sandwiches and deli plates needed to perform just as reliably in busy restaurants, catering kitchens, and foodservice operations.
So Marisa Foods was created with a clear purpose:
To provide chefs with authentic Italian products made with the same care and consistency that built the reputation of Santa Fe Importers.
What began as in-house recipes soon evolved into a full foodservice production operation dedicated to helping restaurants maintain quality and efficiency.
Built for Professional Kitchens
Running a restaurant kitchen is very different from operating a deli counter. Chefs need ingredients that are not only flavorful but also reliable during fast-paced service.
That’s why Marisa Foods products are developed with real kitchen performance in mind.
Restaurants rely on Marisa Foods for products that offer:
Consistent flavor and texture
Recipes are crafted to deliver the same authentic taste every time, ensuring menu items remain dependable.
Efficiency in preparation
Products are designed to reduce prep time while maintaining the quality chefs expect.
Reliable supply
Professional kitchens depend on consistent availability to keep menus running smoothly.
Authentic Italian flavor
Traditional recipes and quality ingredients help bring genuine Italian taste to a wide range of dishes.
Products That Work Across the Menu
Today, Marisa Foods produces a range of Italian specialties used by restaurants, delis, caterers, and foodservice operators.
From handcrafted sausages to classic Italian recipes, these products are designed to support a variety of menu applications, including:
• Pasta dishes
• Gourmet sandwiches
• Pizza toppings
• Catering platters
• Comfort-style Italian meals
Because these products were originally developed in a real deli kitchen, they’re built to perform in real restaurant environments.
A Legacy Rooted in Tradition
Even as the company has grown, the philosophy behind Marisa Foods remains the same: respect tradition while supporting modern kitchens.
The flavors that started behind the counter at Santa Fe Importers continue to influence every product today. The goal isn’t simply to manufacture food—it’s to help chefs serve meals that feel authentic, satisfying, and memorable.
That connection to tradition is what continues to set Marisa Foods apart.
Partner with Marisa Foods
Whether you operate a restaurant, deli, catering service, or foodservice kitchen, Marisa Foods provides the ingredients that help bring authentic Italian flavor to your menu.
From deli roots to restaurant kitchens, the mission remains simple: deliver quality products that chefs can trust every day.
Contact Marisa Foods
📍 1401 Santa Fe Ave
Long Beach, CA 90813
📞 (562) 437-7775
✉️ sales@marisafoods.com
Connect with us today to learn how Marisa Foods can support your kitchen.