FERRARO FOODS OF MARYLAND CUSTOMER SPOTLIGHT Location: 1701 Edmondson Ave, Catonsville, MD 21228 Phone Number: (410) 788-2369
Website: www.scittinosdeli.com
History:
Lenny and Francesco’s grandparents, Frank and Tina, came to this country from Sicily in 1958. They came with their children, Leonardo, Salvatore, and Josie. Later, in 1962, they had their son Frankie. Frank came upon an opportunity to purchase a small deli where he and his family could work together. Frank had operated his own butcher shop in the family’s small hometown of Lascari and worked for a wholesale meat packing company in the states, so he had experience in the business. Over the years he began expanding the small deli to include a full kitchen, pizza shop, and eventually catering services. When Frank passed away in the 80’s, two of his children, Sal and Josie, started running the business. In October 2020, Lenny and Franco Scittino, Frank’s grandchildren, bought the business. Lenny and Franco grew up around the business having worked there in high school. Since Lenny’s return from serving in the navy 6 years ago, he has played an important role in running the business. Franco was a management consultant for the past 25 years, he was drawn to the idea of being his own boss so he decided to join Lenny in running Scittino’s Italian Marketplace.
What is the most popular item on the menu?
The most popular item on their menu is of course their pizza, however, on the deli menu it is their homemade sauces and sausages.
How has your business adapted during the COVID-19 crisis?
In the beginning of COVID-19, meat packages were flying off the shelves because grocery stores ran out of beef, however, because they didn’t buy from large meat plants, they weren’t as effected from the shortage. Their business was never forced to shut down, however their catering business took a hit. They began delivering grocery items and implemented a curbside pickup service. COVID has taught them how to work even more efficiently, having to manage crowds on Friday nights.
What sets your restaurant apart from the competition?
Their product quality is great and their meats and cheeses speak for themselves. If they don’t feel like they can do it better than everyone else, they won’t do it at all. They do not “cut corners” on their operations anywhere. Their recipes and ingredients are authentic as they come, straight from the ‘old country’. Franco says that you would see the same food if you went to Sicily.
Why work with Ferraro Foods?
They have been working with Ferraro Foods for over 20 years. He likes the quality products, like Grande Cheese, and other high-performing cheeses, which make the best pizzas.
Any advice for other Restaurant owners?
He says don’t cut corners and costs as a path to success. The only real way to be successful is to have top-notch service and products - gimmicks don’t work.
Account serviced by: Joe Scittino
The Last Bite // 59
