by Molly Eide Marquez

Indulge in Authentic Italian Flavors with a Beloved Fresno Food Truck. Nestled in the heart of Fresno, there’s a culinary gem on wheels that’s stirring up quite a buzz among food enthusiasts. Luigi’s Italian Sandwiches and Calzones, a charming food truck, is capturing hearts and taste buds with its tantalizing array of Italian delicacies that transport you straight to the enchanting streets of Florence.

Run by the dynamic duo, Luigi and Brittnee Tiso, this food truck is more than just a place to grab a quick bite—it’s a labor of love, a tribute to family heritage, and a testament to the unwavering passion that goes into creating every delectable dish.

Luigi Tiso’s roots trace back to the culinary haven of Italy, where his family hails from the picturesque city of Florence. In the 1960s, his grandparents, Mike and Angelina Dinuzzo, brought a piece of Italy to Fresno by opening Mike’s Pizzeria—a legendary local destination for pizza aficionados. Luigi’s parents, Maria and Luciano Tiso, further enriched his connection to Italian cuisine. Born in Florence and raised in the midst of captivating aromas and vibrant flavors, Luigi’s destiny was sealed as he absorbed the essence of his culinary heritage.

Having moved to Fresno as a preschooler, a young Luigi navigated the journey of acclimating to a new country while, subconsciously, deepening his love for Italian cuisine. A pivotal turning point arrived when he began working at his family’s restaurant as a teenager, imbibing invaluable lessons in cooking techniques, customer service, and the intricate art of running a restaurant. Alongside his sister, Pia, he embraced his family’s legacy and embarked on a culinary voyage that kindled his fervor for food.

Luigi’s passion for the culinary arts propelled him to craft his own culinary identity. After years of honing his skills alongside his cousin Andrew, Luigi’s dream materialized in February 2022 when he and Brittnee opened Luigi’s Italian Sandwiches and Calzones food truck. Brittnee attests to Luigi’s remarkable culinary prowess, emphasizing that what sets Luigi’s creations apart is the unbridled devotion and meticulous attention to detail he pours into every dish.

From the outset, it’s evident that Luigi’s offerings are more than mere meals—they’re a manifestation of a rich heritage and a dedication to preserving tradition. The food truck showcases a menu that spans from classics like Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo and Italian Club sandwiches to more intricate creations such as handcrafted Meatball Sandwiches and meticulously prepared Calzones, with flavors like pepperoni and cheese that delight the palate.

Luigi’s commitment to authenticity is reflected in his culinary processes. The meatballs aren’t sourced frozen; Luigi meticulously crafts them from scratch. The calzone fillings are composed of a carefully blended meat mix, and the ravioli’s pasta noodles are a labor of love, meticulously handcrafted. Every bite tells a story—a story of love, tradition, and a journey spanning continents. Says Brittnee, “He’s a really good cook and is full of passion. People assume it’s easy, but Luigi really loves what he does. He prides himself that the majority of the food is homemade.”

Luigi’s Italian Sandwiches and Calzones is more than a food truck; it’s a dream realized. Luigi’s desire to remain mobile, unburdened by the confines of a brick-and-mortar establishment, enables him to bring his creations to various corners of Fresno and its neighboring towns. From Chowchilla to Kingsburg and Lemoore, Luigi’s culinary delights are spreading joy to every locale.

The ultimate goal for Luigi and Brittnee is longevity. With a heartfelt desire to continue serving their community for years to come, they’re resolute in their dedication to culinary excellence. As they dream of their young son’s first job being a part of this venture, it’s clear that the love for food and tradition is deeply embedded in their family’s future. Says Brittnee, “Ten years from now, we hope to be doing exactly this – [creating] delicious food and sharing it with others. We want to last the test of time.”

Catering is also a feather in Luigi’s culinary cap. It’s a way for him to bring his passion to a wider audience, sharing his dishes at events and gatherings. The opportunity to create something extraordinary in larger quantities resonates with his dedication to both his craft and the relationships he forms through his food.

Luigi’s Italian Sandwiches and Calzones isn’t just about food—it’s about sharing a piece of Luigi’s heart and heritage with every customer. So, whether you’re craving the velvety richness of Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo or the satisfying crunch of an Italian Club sandwich, Luigi’s food truck promises an authentic Italian experience that’s as warm and inviting as the man behind the wheel.

Visit Luigi’s food truck to indulge in a culinary journey that pays homage to generations past, celebrates the present, and holds the promise of a flavorful future. With every bite, you’re not just savoring a dish—you’re experiencing Luigi’s legacy, one delicious mouthful at a time.

Head to Facebook and Instagram to follow the truck’s schedule, discover the latest offerings, and embark on a culinary adventure with Luigi and his team.

Website: luigisfoodtruck.com
Instagram: @luigis.italian
Email: Luigisfoodtruckca@gmail.[dot]com

Molly has been doing a series of articles on local food trucks, you can find them all in KRL’s Food Fun section!

Molly is a Central Valley native, where she and her family live, work, and play. A graduate of CSU Fresno, she is actively involved in the local community and is proud to lift up those around her, shining light on the many wonderful people and organizations that make the Central Valley such a great place to live.