Our Story

With nearly a century of experience in serving local customers, Sammy Carlo’s is truly a neighborhood food staple. Owners Steve and Kathy Scire take pride in being an independent, family-owned business that feels like home to so many regulars and newcomers alike. 

Steve Scire grew up learning how to run the neighborhood staple at a young age from his father, Samuel (known as “Sammy”) and mother, Carmela. And Sammy learned from his father, Carmelo. Today, Steve’s three children continue the learning tradition from their parents when working part-time at the deli. 

In 1927, Carmelo Scire opened a small market on Drake St. in East Boston after emigrating from Sicily. The corner store made a few moves throughout Eastie. First, from Drake St. to what is currently the Salesian Boys & Girls Club parking lot on Bennington St. In the 1950s, Sammy moved the business just one block over to its current location at Bennington & Moore St.

Steve Scire took the business over from his father in 1984 and reinvented it over the last few decades with Kathy. As they incorporated more family recipes, the shop slowly transitioned from a small grocery store into the beloved breakfast, lunch, and catering business it is today. Before they knew it, they were selling out of homemade meatballs and other family famous dishes (thanks to the recipes of Steve’s mother, Carmela)-- so the grocery aisles eventually came down and the tables and chairs came in. 

Whether it's giving a local kid their first job or somewhere to do homework, donating to a community organization, or simply allowing a space for people to feel like family, Sammy Carlo’s plays a major role in the growth and strength of the community--- and they don’t take that responsibility lightly.  

From subs to soups (including Kathy’s homemade beef stew), everything at Sammy Carlo’s is true to its roots and made to order. If you’re not already a regular or don’t have a menu item named after you yet, Sammy Carlo’s is ready to welcome you to the family and is looking forward to learning your order.