Our Story
“Peppino’s Italian Market”
We are a family-owned Italian American Market where people can shop as well as grab a bite to eat. I am a native New Yorker, and my husband grew up in Everett, MA. Although raised quite differently, we both lived within a similar european food culture, filled with memories of growing our own vegetables in a backyard garden, of canning tomatoes each August, of smelling homemade wine brewing in the cellar and watching our elders hang homemade sopressata on the sun porch. We each have fond memories of shopping at the local “Mom and Pop” market, listening to our parents talk to shopkeepers in their native language, and coming home with special treats from the workers who knew us by name. These markets are a dying breed and it is our intention to bring to Melrose the authenticity and friendly atmosphere of a “Mom and Pop” Market, while also including modern-day conveniences and concepts.
A little about us: Bernardo Natale, Owner and Manager, is in charge of all daily operations. This idea of opening his own place has been a long-time dream. He has spent countless hours perfecting his tomato sauce, watching dough rise for his focaccia bread and crafting homemade strombolis. He is an amazing chef, and one thing he CANNOT compromise on is quality. All ingredients have to be the freshest and best available. We have partnered with local vendors to bring us “the good stuff” directly from Italy and are very excited about the products so far. His wife, Celina Natale, is the self-appointed Creative Director, and in charge of marketing and branding. We envision Peppino’s as a place for all- It will be a place for retired gentlemen to get a nice cup of coffee and read a paper, for teenagers to get a soda after school, and for parents to pick up a ready made dinner or to shop for wholesome ingredients.
Our Goal to you, our customers, is simple- to provide an authentic atmosphere and sell delicious food. Check out this site and you will see some of what is available!
Pre-packaged Italian specialty items (pastas, olive oils, tiralli, nutella)
Freshly made deli sandwiches (all the classics, but also gourmet options like pecorino pepato, marinated eggplant, Apullan olives and artichoke hearts on freshly baked bread)
Easily reheated prepared dinners (sicilian pizza, chicken parmesan, orecchiette with sausage and rabe)
Catering (Any of the above in large quantities, plus don’t forget the antipasto platter served on a beautiful wooden platter, aka charcuterie!)
If there is anything specifically you would like, please let us know! We will continually expand and evolve based on the needs of the community.
This is not just a business venture- its a very intentional family decision. We are very excited to use this store as a real-world learning experience designed to instill in our four children our most esteemed values: hard-work, risk-taking, honoring tried and true traditions, and the importance of following your passions. We appreciate your support!
-Celina & Bernardo Natale
