With its warm glow from a wood-fired oven and the scent of fresh basil drifting through the air, Deano’s Italian isn’t just a restaurant in Dublin—it’s a place that feels like home. Recently awarded the 2024 Best of Georgia by customer votes, Deano’s Italian has captured the hearts (and taste buds) of locals and visitors alike. From the moment you step inside, the charm of this place is undeniable. Each detail, from the lovingly restored original brick and reclaimed wood floors to the inviting wood-fired pizza oven imported directly from Italy, symbolizes Robert and Jennifer Shaffer’s dedication to bringing a slice of Italian warmth and authenticity to their community.

Robert and Jennifer’s journey to Deano’s began in 2008 when they left Boynton Beach, Florida, to embrace a quieter life in Dublin. With Robert’s experience as an executive chef at a high-end catering company and Jennifer’s wedding planning background, the couple was more than prepared for their new culinary adventure. At first, they started with local catering gigs, testing the waters and learning about their new neighbors’ tastes and preferences. But it wasn’t long before an unexpected opportunity knocked on their door. In October 2009, they learned that Deano’s Italian was up for sale. By April 2010, the Shaffers officially took over, bringing a fresh vision and a dedication to crafting memorable dining experiences with them.

Since then, Deano’s Italian has evolved into more than just a dining spot, becoming a place for family gatherings, milestone celebrations, and intimate dinners alike. Their slogan, “Welcome Home,” captures the spirit of what they aim to offer—a warm, authentic experience that invites people to slow down, savor, and connect over good food.

One of the restaurant’s shining stars is, of course, Georgia’s only wood stove imported from Italy. This isn’t just any pizza oven; it’s a nod to traditional Italian cooking, adding an unmistakable flavor to every slice of pizza. “There’s something special about watching our customers enjoy a pizza made from scratch, cooked to perfection in our wood-fired oven,” Robert shares. “We wanted to create a place that’s more than just a meal—it’s an experience.”

The 2024 Best of Georgia Award is a milestone for Deano’s, but for Robert and Jennifer, it’s also a tribute to the incredible support they’ve received from their community. Winning this award by customer votes reflects not only the quality of the food but also the sense of family and care that Deano’s has fostered over the years.

As Robert puts it, “We’re here because of our community. Every plate we serve, every celebration we host, it all goes back to the people who have welcomed us into their lives and supported us along the way.” With the blend of old-world Italian charm and Southern hospitality, it’s no wonder that Deano’s Italian has become a beloved part of Dublin’s dining scene and a well-deserved recipient of the Best of Georgia Award.

Contact

Phone: 478-275-1117

Address: 112 W. Jackson Street, Dublin, GA 31021

Email: deanosdublin@gmail.com

Website: www.deanositalian.com