LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — On this Takeout Tuesday, 13 Action News is featuring two Italian businesses that have changed the way they operate in order to stay open.
For years, Donna Italia has provided frozen pizzas for commercial businesses only, including several resorts on the Las Vegas Strip. But, that business model changed almost overnight.
"We served it in the top hotels: Waldorf Astoria, MGM, Mandarin Oriental, and now people are just able to order it and bake it at home," said Rom Ben Eliyahu, CEO of Donna Italia in Las Vegas.
For the first time in company history, Donna Italia is offering its frozen pizzas to the public. You have to buy in bulk (minimum of six pizzas at a time), but the pizzas can be cooked in a matter of minutes and they're delivered right to your door.
Employees at the Donna Italia warehouse in the southwest part of the Las Vegas valley say the novel coronavirus cost them 95-99% of their clients overnight, but they're grateful for the opportunity to serve the larger Las Vegas community.
"We are so happy, as a company, to be able to give back to our community in that way. I've learned so much about how strong this community is and every time something happens, that strength just comes out," said Eliyahu.
If you'd like to order Donna Italia pizzas online, click this link.
At Pasta Shop Ristorante in Henderson, the Aleniks have become famous for their Italian family feasts. But in the era of social distancing, they're now offering a delicious dinner to-go, and aptly calling it a "Quarantine Kit."
"It feeds two people. It's $24.95 and you get fresh pasta, sausage, meatballs, and vegan meatballs, a salad, garlic bread," said Bianca Alenik, one of the family owners of Pasta Shop Ristorante.
For years, Pasta Shop Ristorante has donated a portion of its profits to the Inspiring Children Foundation, helping put local kids through college. Now, the nonprofit is returning the favor by helping feed families in the Las Vegas valley.
"It's been a great partnership and we've been able to provide food for a lot of families that are going through challenging times," said Trent Alenik, another family owner at Pasta Shop Ristorante.
If you'd like to order from Pasta Shop Ristorante online, click this link.
So many Las Vegas restaurants and businesses are staying open during these tough times. For the full list, click on this link.
