Our Story
Italian Oven Il Primo: A Legacy of Passion, Family, and Authentic Italian Cuisine
Welcome to Italian Oven Il Primo, a place where tradition meets passion and family is at the heart of everything we do. Our story began in 1998 when Sheila Baker, our esteemed host and general manager, learned that the original Italian Oven, the first of its kind, was facing closure. Unwilling to let this beloved establishment fade away, Sheila, alongside her husband Don, sister Tammy Newell, and brother-in-law Leroy Newell, decided to breathe new life into the restaurant, embracing the original concept of serving fresh, local ingredients daily.
Over the years, Italian Oven Il Primo has evolved into more than just an affordable family restaurant; it’s a true family business. From Sheila and Tammy working side by side every day to Don’s electrical expertise and Leroy’s financial acumen, each family member played a crucial role. And let’s not forget Mamma, who, up until her passing, was the mastermind behind our homemade meatballs, hamburgers, and meatloaf, and greeted every guest with a warm smile at the hostess station. Many of our other family members have worked here throughout the years: sons, nephews, nieces, cousins, and some have gone on to become fabulous cooks, adding their unique touch to our family recipes.
Our commitment to serving fresh, made-from-scratch food is unwavering. We take pride in every dish that leaves our kitchen, ensuring that it’s not only delicious but also made with care and free of preservatives. Our menu, featuring both our own recipes and those passed down from our mother and grandmother, is a testament to our passion for cooking and our heritage.
Working together as sisters and partners, we complement each other perfectly, sharing a love for cooking, a dedication to our restaurant, and a bond that extends beyond the kitchen. Our family extends to our employees, many of whom have been with us since the beginning, and our customers, whom we consider part of our extended family.
As we continue this journey, we are grateful for the opportunity to share our passion for food and family with you. From our family to yours, thank you for your patronage and for allowing us to be a part of your lives.
With love and gratitude, Sheila and Don Baker, Tammy Newell, and the Italian Oven Il Primo Family
From Our Oven to Your Table: A Legacy of Tradition
Discover The Italian Oven in Somerset, where our dedication to traditional homemade cuisine comes alive with every dish. Born from a desire to keep a beloved eatery’s spirit alive in ’98, our kitchen has become a sanctuary of flavor. Each dish we serve is a testament to our legacy, filled with the homemade tastes that have become our hallmark. From handcrafted meatballs to our famed Alfredo, we welcome you to share in our story, one plate at a time.
Value
Crafting Memories with Italian Delicacies.
To keep our tradition of homemade dining alive, ensuring every meal reflects our family's passion for quality and hospitality
To deliver an exceptional dining experience by serving meticulously handcrafted meals in a welcoming environment, ensuring every visit is marked by memorable flavors and heartfelt hospitality.
