My maternal grandfather owned a fruit and vegetable store in the Bronx during the 40’s, 50’s and 60’s. I can vividly remember the baskets that overflowed with the freshest, highest quality produce available in the city. There was the most amazing broccoli, carrots, potatoes, celery, brussel sprouts, asparagus; too many to mention. In all of my 56 years I have found very few places that could compete with the selection of ripe and luscious fruits on display. Pop-Pop was very careful to sell only the freshest of seasonal selections. As a result, I am a produce snob, and proud of it!
Two doors down my uncle and aunt owned the local delicatessen. The aromas that wafted out from the magnificent meats and cheeses are seared into my memory forever. Row upon row of Italian delicacies imported from the old country lined the aisles of this wondrous place. There were penny candy jars and always a treat for the children who visited.
I recall that there was a bakery on the corner and waking up to its distinct fragrance of bread baking in the early morning; the smell of pastries in the afternoon – it is almost too much to think about without gaining a pound of two.
My other uncle was a butcher. Our family was truly blessed to have the finest cuts of meat and the freshest of everything when we sat down to huge Sunday suppers, not to mention at the holidays and all other special occasions. My great-grandmother would make pasta from scratch to feed our family army, and to this day I have no idea where her patience and stamina came from.
Today’s Italian markets are more likely to be under one roof in a metropolitan area, or in a farmers market in the more rural areas. Regardless of their location they are certain to offer the most amazing selections of fresh produce, herbs, spices, meats, cheeses, cured meats and other Italian delicacies. You may find dried pasta, fresh pasta or the most wonderful flour and semolina to make your own.
Take the time to completely explore your Italian market. Make a promise to yourself to try something new each time you go. Expand your knowledge and your palette. Buono Appetito! If you haven’t found that best Italian Orlando market but are craving authentic and delicious Italian cuisine, now is the perfect time to visit Christini’s Ristorante Italiano.