Pittsburgh's Strip District - Part 1

We love to shop for food, maybe because we are Italian, or maybe just because we love to eat and cook for people.  One of our favorite places to visit and shop is the ethnic food section of Pittsburgh called the Strip District.  It's located on Penn Avenue and Smallman Street between 16th and 21st.

The best time to go is on a Saturday morning when the action is really in full swing.  Outdoor vendors are yelling, grills are hot and smells are wafting down the street, peanuts are roasting, and people are everywhere.  We love the whole atmosphere, crowds, chaos and all.



Let me narrate you through a few of our favorite spots to shop.  Our absolute favorite place is Pennsylvania Macaroni Company.  It's the Italian grocery store dropped down from heaven.  Inside the front door there are bulk grains, nuts and candy, all at great prices.  The spice selection is incredible - you can find anything you need! 

Then if you round the corner to the left - cheese and deli delights await you!!  If you're lucky - someone will be eager to cut you slices of cheese to sample while you ponder what to buy, or should I say, how many pounds of cheese to buy!  The place is not for germophobes, the barrels of brined olives are out in the open, just like in Europe, and no one cares!

Walking into Penn Mac is like a jolt of adrenaline for your cooking nerve center.  It makes me start imagining meals I can create with the beautiful cheeses, spices and pasta.  Let me end this segment with a couple of shots of their pasta and sauce selection to whet your appetite!

Buon Appetito!

Part 2 will follow soon!