A Placentia Homecoming: Tony’s Bar & Deli Brings "The Bell" and Big Flavor to Downtown

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There are some businesses that just fit the soul of a city. For decades, Tony’s Bar & Deli was an Anaheim institution, serving up legendary sandwiches since 1972. But if you talk to the owner, Liam Stanton, he’ll tell you that the move to Downtown Placentia isn’t just a business relocation—it’s a homecoming.

At Nelida & Co - REALTORS® + COMMUNITY | Major League Properties, we love seeing our historic downtown corridors revitalized by people who truly know the neighborhood.

Deep Roots in the 92870

Liam isn't a newcomer to our streets. He grew up right here, attending St. Joseph’s School on Bradford. The local connection runs even deeper: his mother was a beloved teacher at Valencia High School for years before her recent retirement.

When you walk into Tony’s, you aren't just a customer; you're likely a neighbor, a former classmate, or a former student of the Stanton family.

Where the "Game Bell" Lives

If you are a fan of Placentia football, you know about THE BELL GAME. The annual rivalry between Valencia High School (VHS) and El Dorado High School (EDHS) is the stuff of local legend. The victorious team earns the right to take home the massive, frame-mounted "Game Bell."

But did you know the Bell has a home in Downtown? The local "Game Bell" is housed right at the bar at Tony’s. It’s a symbol of city pride and the "All-America" spirit that defines us.

Birthday Tradition: If it’s your birthday, come on in and let the staff know! There’s no better way to celebrate another year in Placentia than by being surrounded by the history of the Bell Game.

SAVE THE DATE: Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting

Tony’s is making it official with a celebration that Downtown Placentia won’t soon forget.

  • When: February 12th, 2026

  • The Schedule: The restaurant will close at 2:00 PM to prep and will reopen at 4:30 PM for the official Ribbon Cutting.

  • The Party: The parking lot will be closed off to make room for live music, community celebration, and the debut of several brand-new dishes.

Whether you’ve been eating Tony’s sandwiches since their Anaheim days or you’re a local resident eager to try their famous deli fare, this is the event of the month.

Why This Matters for Placentia Real Estate

As we celebrate the Placentia Centennial, the success of spots like Tony’s is a huge indicator of our city’s health. When local "kids" like Liam come back to invest in their hometown, it creates a "sticky" community—a place where people want to live, work, and eat.

A vibrant downtown means higher walkability scores and increased property values for the surrounding neighborhoods. Plus, having a world-class deli sandwich within walking distance is a pretty great selling point for any home!

Support Local. Eat Well.

We’ll see you at the Ribbon Cutting on the 12th! Come for the sandwiches, stay for the live music, and take a moment to admire the Bell.

Welcome home, Tony’s Bar & Deli.

Curious about living in the heart of the revitalized Downtown Placentia?

[View nearby historic homes and new listings here].

 

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