09/11/2026
My Journey in the Antelope Valley Tony Peterson
I’ve been part of the Antelope Valley for over 55 years. I came here after leaving Italy and started working at Barone’s when they opened their new location at 1229 West Avenue I. In 1968 I left for Vietnam, and when I returned, Al Barone gave me my job back.
In those days, the AV only had two Italian restaurants — Barone’s and Casa Roma — so I’ve seen this valley grow from almost nothing into what it is today.
In 1975, Al Barone, myself (Tony), and my partner Gene Magar opened the first Gino’s on Challenger Way. Later I opened Gino’s in Palmdale and Gino’s at the Lancaster Marketplace. I’ve served generations of families here — weddings, anniversaries, quinceañeras, and Friday‑night dinners for decades.
The Antelope Valley isn’t just where I live — it’s where I built my life, my business, and my community. After all these years, I’m still here with Gino’s Palmdale and Gino’s Lancaster at the Marketplace, and I still appreciate every customer who walks through the door.
I
