While only open for a few weeks, Palmerino’s in downtown Morgan Hill already has its regulars who crave authentic Italian sandwiches, pasta, meatballs and other staples of the cuisine. The Connie Polpette, a sandwich stuffed with meatballs, mozzarella, parmigiano and sauce served with Pugliese bread, has proven to be one of the most popular items on the menu.

It’s immensely gratifying for owner Tommy Palmer, as the sandwich was created in honor of his grandmother Connie Cannino, using her recipes for the sauce and meatballs. Cannino’s passing in 2017 set Palmer on a path into the culinary world, with a goal to share his family’s recipes with the broader community.