For food lovers, there’s something magical about a perfectly crafted pizza. It’s more than just a meal—it’s a shared experience. At Calabria, the heart and soul of this experience is Valon Arifi, whose passion for authentic Italian cuisine has made his brick oven pizzas a local sensation. Valon’s journey to culinary mastery began with a simple love for authentic Italian pizza. “It’s not just a meal but an experience that brings people together,” he says. Driven by this philosophy, he devoted countless hours to perfecting his craft. “I spent 10 to 14 hours a day at the restaurant, experimenting, refining, and learning what truly works and what doesn’t.” For Valon, it’s about more than just technique; it’s about mastering the nuances of each ingredient and harnessing the power of a traditional brick oven to create something exceptional.
At Calabria, quality begins with the ingredients. Valon’s approach combines sourcing fresh, local produce with importing key components from Italy, such as San Marzano tomatoes and specialty flours. “These authentic components are essential for achieving the true taste of Italian pizza,” he explains. Building trust with suppliers is equally important. “We prioritize quality and consistency above all else. This attention to detail ensures that every bite delivers the authentic flavors our guests expect.” Valon’s relationships with local vendors go beyond transactions. He shares an instance when a supplier adjusted an order to maintain Calabria’s quality standards. “Their dedication to delivering exceptional products helped us maintain our reputation for excellence,” he notes.
To elevate the dining experience, Valon curates a wine and spirits list that complements the menu. His passion for wine has taken him to Napa Valley and beyond, fostering relationships with winemakers and discovering pairings that enhance each dish. “Quality, consistency, and authenticity are my top priorities,” he emphasizes, choosing purveyors whose products align with Calabria’s culinary vision. From bold reds to crisp whites, every bottle on the menu has a story to tell, adding depth to the dining experience.
Valon’s dedication to fostering a sense of community shines through in every aspect of Calabria. From the warm, inviting atmosphere to his genuine interactions with customers and suppliers, he’s built a space where everyone feels welcome. “Being genuine and approachable helps create a welcoming environment for our guests,” he says. For Valon, the heart of Calabria lies in creating moments where people come together to share good food and good company. It’s about more than just serving a meal; it’s about cultivating connections that last long after the plates are cleared.
This commitment extends to his team and the restaurant’s broader network. Strong vendor relationships ensure a reliable supply of high-quality ingredients, while open communication keeps standards consistently high. “Vendor relationships are vital for maintaining quality and trust,” Valon affirms. Listening to his customers is another cornerstone of Valon’s approach. “Customer feedback is invaluable,” he says. “It helps us refine our menu and improve the dining experience.” By adapting to his patrons’ tastes, he’s created a menu that not only reflects his passion but also resonates with the community. Each dish is crafted with the intention of honoring both the traditions of Italian cuisine and the preferences of his guests.
Dining at Calabria is more than an opportunity to enjoy expertly crafted pizza; it’s a chance to be part of a story that celebrates tradition, quality, and community. Valon Arifi’s unwavering dedication to excellence ensures that every visit is memorable. Whether savoring a slice of Margherita pizza or sipping on a perfectly paired glass of wine, guests are reminded of the magic that comes from eating local and connecting with the people behind the food. Each dish tells a story of commitment to tradition and an unyielding pursuit of quality, making every meal unforgettable.
As guests sit down at Calabria, the warm and rustic ambiance sets the stage for an extraordinary dining experience. Beyond the food, Valon’s team embodies the values of genuine hospitality. “We want every guest to feel like family,” Valon shares, his pride in his staff evident. It’s this dedication to service and community that transforms Calabria from a mere restaurant into a cornerstone of local life. Every detail, from the music to the plating of each dish, is meticulously crafted to evoke the essence of Italy.
In every corner of Calabria, from the dining room to the kitchen, there’s a palpable sense of passion and purpose. So next time you’re looking for a dining experience that nourishes both the body and soul, head to Calabria. You’ll find more than a meal—you’ll find a community united by a shared love of authentic, heartfelt cuisine. Calabria invites you to indulge in the warmth of their food and their story, making every bite an opportunity to connect with a rich culinary heritage.
“We want every guest to feel like family.”