Scigliano's Closes for Remodeling, Under New Ownership

A popular FishHawk Ranch deli has closed and is under new ownership.

Chris Scigliano, owner of at 15260 Fishhawk Blvd., Lithia, announced on the market's Facebook page that the deli is closed for remodeling and will open under new owners.

Scigliano was not available for comment and didn't give any other details on his Facebook page other than to stay he believed it would continue to be an Italian deli.

Scigliano opened his New York-style deli in August, offering quality deli meats and fresh-baked bread, reminiscent of the bakeries in his native New York City.

In an interview with Patch, Scigliano he grew up with. He gambled that other Northern transplants missed the small bakeries, delis and vegetable vendors as much as he did.

After opening, Scigliano promptly got involved in the community, after their FishHawk Ranch home burned down, and hosting a Bible study group, book club and other community groups at his deli.

He also organized a Winterfest in December that benefitted Toys for Tots.

In his Facebook message to customers, Scigliano declined to comment on why he decided to sell the business.

"I personally would like to thank all my loyal customers who supported me," said Scigliano in a message posted Feb. 1. "The store has closed for remodeling effective today. We originally were going to wait until Sunday, but the new owners made an offer to get in sooner than later so a business decision was made. The new owners are going to add more seating and change the menu, eliminating a lot of the groceries and concentrating more on food. Still are not exactly sure what they are planning. But you will be kept informed. They will be up and running as soon as possible."

The announcement prompted a flurry of comments from customers like Fred Emery.

"He (Scigliano) poured his heart and soul into that place and established what I thought was a much-needed and great place. Food was always great and I felt like I was back in N.Y. at our local Italian deli. I am very sorry to see Scigliano's go and wish you all the best, Chris. Thanks for being a part of the FishHawk community and I hope you succeed in anything you strive for. Just remember, you went for a dream and that is more than most people can say. I know I am going to miss Scigliano's and I hope the new owners are as nice and community oriented as the original owners."

Donna Blidy Froncillo, owner of Afterimage Salon in the same plaza, expressed disappointment with the community for not supporting local businesses.

"Going into business for yourself is a dream that a lot of people have but only some actually try, so I have a lot of respect for people who live their dreams," said Froncillo. "Owning Afterimage Salon in that strip has not been easy. We have been there for almost five years and it has been hard and only God knows what will happen in the future. We were told by a lot of Fishhawk reps that the neighborhood will support local businesses and that does not seem to be the truth. We have watched businesses come and go in this center for five years and it is very disappointing to us to hear that the neighborhood does not support their own."