Fresh sandwiches at Manea’s Meats. 

First-generation owners Rolando (whose nickname was Pio) and Aleida Castellanos had a beautiful Cuban accent that stuck with them over time after they came to the United States in 1968 due to the seizing of their farm and business by the Cuban Government. Over the years as they learned the English language with their family (by listening to records in their house), certain words and phrases were a bit more difficult to pronounce (for example Sandwich). The way they chose to spell “Sangwich” at Manea’s Meats is how Rolando (Pio) and Aleida would have pronounced it themselves when speaking English.

They thought the best way to continue to honor them and their legacy is to incorporate their heritage, their names, and their unique Cuban quirks into the store when and where they can. Now the next time you hear them on the radio or are reading “Pio’s Sangwich Shop”, you’ll know the history of where the name came from and why they pronounce it the way they do! They love their history and are proud to share it with you all!