If you’ve been waiting to grab one of those famous La Grotta paninis without venturing to Commercial Drive, your moment has arrived!
A Noms Mag community member (@nini.mango) gave us the heads up that Panino Mio, the highly anticipated Burnaby outpost of the beloved family run Italian sandwich shop, has quietly opened its doors this past Wednesday.
We stopped by on Friday afternoon to check out the new spot.
Here’s what we found: Panino Mio brings the same charm, flavours, and quality that La Grotta has been perfecting since 1979, but now with a cozy new vibe in Burnaby Heights.
The interior is bright and welcoming, with seating for about six by the windows—a perfect spot to enjoy a fresh panini while taking in the hustle and bustle of Hastings Street.
The setup is way less cramped compared to their Commercial Drive location, but you’ll still find with shelves stocked with Italian goodies like jams, spreads, crackers, and meats.
A fridge filled with unique Italian sodas (hello, MoleCola and Brio) and prepared homemade meals catches the eye as you walk in.
Their sandwich menu is a highlight, featuring the same classic offerings we all know and love.
Typically people go for the sub as the bread option but we wanted to try something different this time.
We got the Fresco panino on half focaccia, and opted for it be grilled to perfection—and it absolutely hit the spot if you enjoy a little bit of crunch like we do.
Expect all your favourites like the iconic Meatball Sandwich and Bella Della Tella, plus an option to create your own masterpiece.
But Panino Mio isn’t just about sandwiches.
The Burnaby location has added a full drink menu, offering caffeinated options and refreshing sodas like Melonade and Peach Tea.
It’s the perfect addition to complement the savoury delights they’re serving up.
This quiet soft opening is already creating buzz in the community, and it’s clear that Panino Mio is a welcome addition to North Burnaby’s food scene.
With its convenient location next to Glenburn Soda Fountain, you can easily swing by for a panini fix without heading into Vancouver.
Will you be stopping by to try it?
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Address: 4092 Hastings Street, Burnaby BC