Our Story
Co-owners Giovanni Cassano and Vito Maggio decided to bring their extensive restaurant skills together with this new endeavour. Giovanni Cassano, having worked in the hospitality industry for 27 years from dishwasher to manager, decided it was time to take his experience in the industry to the next level and become an owner. Vito Maggio is a local Walkerville entrepreneur with two very successful restaurants in the neighbourhood – Olde Walkerville Vito’s Pizzeria and O’Maggio’s Kildare House. The distinctive name honors Cassano’s parents, as Ortona is the name of their hometown in the province of Chieti in the region of Abruzzo, Italy – and is in keeping with the traditional Italian feel both owners wanted to bring to the shop. ⠀
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At Ortona, you will find authentic Italian panini with Porchetta and Veal, but also a variety of other wonderful Italian meats and cheeses. There is a full deli counter with ready-to-go sandwiches and each week Giovanni will feature his “Sandwich of the Week”. Also served are rustic Italian appetizers such as Lamb Spiducci, Gnocchi Poutine, Mini Arancini, and various other traditional antipasto dishes. Along with our delicious food, enjoy an ice-cold glass of beer, wine, spirits, or gourmet espresso. Finish it all off with a traditional Italian dessert such as Affogato or Brioche con Gelato.