For 14 years, Geno’s Italian Deli has been a beloved cornerstone of our community — a family-owned gem that would fit right in even in a city 10 times the size of our modest Bowling Green.
The restaurant boasts a humble, slightly weathered appearance that exudes cozy charm. Elvis memorabilia adds character to the walls, and there is ample seating for diners. Yet, it’s not the ambiance that steals the show — it’s the food, which more than compensates for any decor the space may lack.
The massive menu offers everything from pizza, calzones, and pasta to deli sandwiches, gyros, and a vast dessert assortment. I had no idea where to start, but I settled on the smothered beef sub sandwich — a hearty creation of tender roast beef layered with sauteed onions, mushrooms, green peppers, and gooey provolone cheese. It came topped with horseradish cheese and a slathering of mayo, accompanied by a rich, flavorful au jus for dipping. Dear reader, I am still thinking about this sandwich. It was so huge that I could only eat about a fourth of it, and when I return to Geno’s, I will have to force myself not to order it again so I can try one of their other offerings. But this is the sort of sandwich you dream of if you’re dreaming of one of the best sandwiches you’ll ever have the honor of consuming. For a side, I chose their pickle and olive salad, and it’s exactly what it sounds like. However, that doesn’t even do it justice because the pickles are spicy and garlicky and complement the briny tanginess of the olives perfectly. My only regret is not buying a container of this salad to bring home to snack on daily. It’s that good!
We gave their fettuccine Alfredo a try, savoring the luscious sauce made from butter, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan cheese. If the rest of their pasta is this good, I can’t wait to try their other selections. We sampled the chocolate cream pie and lemon angel cake for dessert — both were fantastic.
Genos is usually crowded, with the occasional line backed up to the door — but for good reason. It’s absolutely worth the wait to have some of the best food in Bowling Green.
