Italia di Gusto, ‘Taste of Italy’, Opens in Medford Square

– Allison Goldsberry

The Medford Square storefront where Bestsellers Cafe was formerly located is now the home of Italia di Gusto, or “Taste of Italy.” The specialty grocery store/restaurant is part of an Italian franchise that has only one other US location in Ridgewood, New Jersey.

Franchise owners Matteo and Francesca Ronzio, both from Italy, have been in America since February. They said they fell in love with Boston after a trip to New England a few years ago. The couple is eager to expose patrons to authentic Italian food and dining customs.

“It’s like coming to Italy if you enter into this shop,” said Francesca.

“The point is to come and try,” said Matteo, “and they come back!” Francesca finished.

Italia di Gusto will be a place to find imported Italian goods, such as olive oil, cheese, sauces, pasta, coffee, and balsamic vinegar and to also enjoy traditional Italian dishes that feature fresh, local ingredients along with Italian imports.

“…you can have fun and taste something good…relax…but at the same time maybe learn something to try in the kitchen at home,” said Francesca.

One of the most unique features will arguably be the pizza. A fifth generation pizza chef from Naples, Ciro, and an oven from Florence will serve up the most authentic pizza this side of the Atlantic. It only takes 90 seconds to cook a pizza in the nearly six hundred and fifty degree oven.

The pizza chef, according to the Ronzios, has a degree to teach his art, and indeed, education will also be a part of Italia di Gusto. Staff will help patrons understand the products available and cooking demos are planned to help people learn how to DIY.

Italia di Gusto is currently offering slightly scaled back lunch and dinner menus during its “soft opening.” The Ronzios anticipate receiving more products from Italy and are also in the process of obtaining a liquor license.

Francesca said they have so far been received very warmly by the community. The Ronzios are thrilled so many curious customers stopped by on Thursday to sample some food, check the place out, and purchase some imported goods. A grand opening is planned for late October.

Italia di Gusto is open Tuesday and Wednesday 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM and Thursday, Friday, and Saturday 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM, and Sunday 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM.

Italia di Gusto sign

Ciro

pizza

tables

Ciro and Matteo

Matteo and Francesca

IDG logo

logo

sauce

jars

pasta

pasta

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