Brian “Bmanpitt” Pitcher
Google
A Culinary Odyssey at Mazzaro’s Italian Market
Mazzaro’s Italian Market, nestled at 2909 22nd Ave N in St. Petersburg, Florida, isn’t just a market—it’s a sensory symphony, a love letter to Italian cuisine that’s earned its crown as America’s top-rated grocery for a reason. From the moment I stepped through its doors, the air buzzed with urgency, like a culinary battlefield where passionate food lovers, armed with multiple tickets from the deli, cheese, and meat counters, orchestrated their assault on flavor. Even on a quiet weekday, the place thrummed with life, nearly sweeping me away in a tide of eager shoppers.
A Feast for the Senses
Where does one begin in this labyrinth of gastronomic treasures? The aroma of freshly roasted Mazzaro’s House Blend Coffee mingles with the warm, yeasty embrace of Crusty Italian Bread baked daily. Shelves brim with homemade wonders, each label proudly declaring its in-house or artisanal origins. The Fresh Lobster Ravioli, crafted behind glass, dances in boiling water, while the 12-Layer Sausage Lasagna, a masterpiece by Executive Chef Joshua Breen, beckons from the deli case. Every corner reveals a new delight: glistening Marinated Olive Medley, shelves of Extra Virgin Olive Oil from Puglia, and a bakery overflowing with Cannoli Siciliani and Sfogliatelle Napoletane.
The Heart of Mazzaro’s
The passion here is palpable. Robert Smith, a maestro of hard-to-source ingredients, spoke with infectious zeal about treasures like Moliterno al Tartufo, a sheep’s milk cheese infused with Alba-sourced truffles, housed in the market’s legendary cheese cave. With over 425 varieties, from creamy House-Made Mozzarella by Chris to pungent Parmigiano-Reggiano, the cave is a pilgrimage site for cheese lovers. The wine cellar, boasting over 1,000 bottles, offers gems like Montepulciano d’Abruzzo and Prosecco di Valdobbiadene, with tastings that turn browsing into a celebration. Robert’s words painted a vivid picture, much like the murals outside.
The Mazzaro Effect
Filming a TV show here, we explored the “Mazzaro Effect”—an irresistible pull that keeps customers returning, some driving hours, others flying across states. The market’s soul shines in its quirky decor—funky statues, whimsical trinkets—and the dynamic energy of its staff. Even on the slowest day, the parking lot was a gauntlet, a testament to Mazzaro’s one-stop allure. It’s a place where you don’t just shop; you embark on a mission, grabbing tickets for the Deli Counter, Cheese Cave, and Meat Market to time your haul perfectly.
A Lunch to Remember
Lunch stopped us in our tracks. The #1 Italian Sandwich—piled high with ham, Genoa salami, capicola, mortadella, and provolone—was a flavor explosion, each bite amplified by the Housemade Butter-Flavored Roll. The Chicken Salad Sandwich, creamy yet vibrant, and the Steak, Cheese, and Mushroom Sub, dripping with savory juices, were unforgettable. The Caprese, with its House-Made Mozzarella and ripe tomatoes, sang of summer. And the bread—oh, that Soft Italian Loaf, warmed my soul with every bite. Joshua Breen’s 12-Layer Sausage Lasagna was a revelation, its richly described layers of House-Made Ingredients a reason to return.
Value and Versatility
The value stunned us. For a market of this caliber, the prices felt like a gift—sandwiches generous enough for two meals, pastries like Amaretti Cookies and Tiramisu priced to share. Mazzaro’s is a one-stop shop for any occasion, from Sunday dinners to grand parties. Need ingredients for a feast? Grab Fresh Pappardelle Pasta, San Marzano Tomato Sauce, and Prosciutto di Parma. Hosting a crowd? Their Party Platters, loaded with Soppressata and Asiago Cheese, will steal the show. The Casa di Mazzaro offers cookbooks to recreate the magic at home.
A Lasting Impression
Mazzaro’s isn’t just a market; it’s a memory etched in flavor. The Cannoli Siciliani crunched with sweet ricotta, the Espresso Roast Coffee fueled our adventure, and the Alba Truffle haunts my dreams. I held off on the Mazzaro’s hats, but I’m already planning my return—multiple fligh