Kings Introduces, "Piazza Italia"
If you live in New Jersey like I do, finding Italian specialty products isn't too hard. With a good portion of the state's population claiming some Italian heritage, there are plenty of small markets importing Italian goods. The problem though, is you generally can't do a full grocery shopping at these places. You can get fresh ricotta, and prosciutto di Parma, but they generally don't have other, more American staples. Kings Markets has solved this problem.
The "Piazza Italia." A collection of artisanal Italian products, exclusive to Kings.
Welcome to the Piazza Italia. An 8 day kick off event for a new line of products direct from Italy. But this is not your general Barilla pasta or Colavita olive oil. No, these are carefully curated, family owned, small batch businesses that are bringing their products to the U.S. for the first time. A total of 25 artisans have signed up through Italian Products USA to sell their items at 12 Kings stores across NJ. Kings Vice President of Merchandising, Jeff Binder told us they were looking to up their game and this was their plan; to bring a traditional Italian market, to the local grocery store.
Balsamic vinegar from Modena. This brand was the first commercially produced balsamic - in 1605!
I had the opportunity to taste some of the products at a kick-off event on March 31st and I was not disappointed. Anyone who's ever been to Italy knows the food is just better there; and it always will be. But many of these products bring a lot of those flavors to our shores. Not only food but ceramics are also available which is another popular part of Italian culture. A total of 75 products will be featured over the next few weeks and those that are most purchased will remain in stores; be sure to stock up on favorites!
Beyond food - Kings is also importing hand-painted ceramics.
While I will always support shopping at small, family owned markets, I also understand the convenience of a one-stop shop. For Italian-Americans and those who love our food, Kings is making it easy without sacrificing quality. Bravo!
The Piazza Italia items can be found at the Short Hills, Garwood, Hillsdale, Midland Park, Morristown, Mendham, Verona, Bedminster, Hoboken, Boonton, Cresskill and Ridgewood locations.
Kings is a sponsor of Cara's Cucina.