Two recent market ownership changes in town sent me into a panic mode.
I love our independently owned mini-markets because not only do they represent the “flavor” of our town, but they also offer unique finds. I believe this to be particularly true about the variety of sausages, cuts of meat, and specialty items that are not comparable to big chain grocery stores.
Now that we are in the summer season, these two markets are ideal places to purchase goodies to throw on the grill.
A-1 Italian Deli and Grocery. (photo: Sanam Lamborn)
I panicked when I heard A-1 Italian Deli and Grocery (348 W. 8th St.) changed ownership last year because: 1.) It was the first Italian store my husband took me to when we were dating — I remember walking down the aisles with tears in my eyes because they had many Italian brands that I grew up with that are not available at regular stores; 2.) Where would I buy frozen sfogliatelle to bake at home? 3.) What would my life be without Ante Bjazic’s cevapcici?
The store has undergone a much-needed overhaul, which has made it look impressively bright and clean. Fortunately, many Italian products that made this store special are still on the shelves.
The butcher display features many poultry, beef, pork, and housemade sausages to choose from. I am happy to report that Ante, one of the few remaining familiar faces, is still making fantastic cevapcici. The latter, along with any of the sausages or steaks, are great to throw on the grill.
The deli section, overhauled by yet another familiar face, Ambrose Russo, looks more inviting and appetizing with staples such as cured meats, cheeses, marinated vegetables, various olives, and side salads. The sandwiches are just as good as ever, with a steady line of customers who file in during lunchtime.
The new addition to the store is a couple of freezers filled with various types of eye-catching frozen seafood (and even rabbit). I have yet to meet the new owners, but the mood is chipper and friendly overall.
La Perla Tapatia Meat Market. (photo: Sanam Lamborn)
The second panic occurred earlier this year when it was announced that La Perla Tapatia Meat Market (210 N. Pacific Ave.) was sold to a new owner. Through the years, they truly lived up to the words on their store banner: “Best carne asada in town.” I wondered about possible changes to some of my other favorites, like the mango habanero wings, picanha, and salsas.
I am happy to report that everything seems the same, except for some minor reconfiguration of the aisles. The meat display is still full of good-looking beef, pork, and poultry selections ready to be taken home and thrown on the BBQ. The mango habanero wings, picanha, and salsas are still there, too. The carne asada is still tasty, and they kept the old system where the meat is weighed first and then dipped in the marinate tub to acquire its delicious flavor.
New fantastic discoveries during my last couple of visits are the ranchero prime, a thin sliced, tender cut of meat that cooks super quickly, and it’s delicious. The tasajo is a narrow half-an-inch thick cut of meat that is also great, particularly when dunking in the marinade.
I was told that during the transition, everything remained the same, and I must say the marinade is still fantastic, although it feels slightly sweeter to me. Nevertheless, it’s still my preferred place in town for various cuts of unique meats.
During your visit, you can still opt to purchase prepared food. They also have reasonably priced daily specials.
If you need an incentive to visit this meat market, follow their active Instagram account, which will tantalize your taste buds. spt
