Mollie Ahlstrand, formerly from Trattoria Mollie in Montecito and Mollie’s on State in Santa Barbara opened a new deli at 1039 Casitas Pass Road in Carpinteria last August. The concept for Mollie’s Italian Deli came from her friend in Rome, whose establishment serves only three pastas and three sauces and she came to Carpinteria to offer the same types of items.

“I bake fresh Ciabatta and Focaccia bread daily and makes my own fresh pastas,” says Ahlstrand. “The pastas are made with Semolina and Corn Flour, without eggs.  You are invited to take home the fresh pastas with my fresh tomato sauce, bolognese, or chicken & vodka sauce to make your own meals. My meatballs are a favorite companion to this combination. I send you with instructions!”

The menu offers soup, vegetables, salads and sandwiches, in addition to its core of pastas, bread and sauces. Thursday is gnocchi day.  Friday and Saturday are lasagna days. And there is always a daily special. Hours for take-out and eat-in are Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.; closed on Sundays. Mollie’s also serves dinners Thursday-Saturday for 8-10 people to dine in.  Reservations Needed. 5- 9:00 p.m. Call (805) 452-2692 or visit MolliesItalianDeli.com