Piemonte Ravioli, Gateway Region Travel Guide

History and Heritage

Piemonte Ravioli traces its roots to 1920, founded by a Genoese immigrant in the vibrant Grand Street area of Manhattan. In 1955, Mario Bertorelli from Parma took ownership, passing the craft to his son Flavio. The store occupies the ground floor of a Federal-style brick house built between 1832 and 1834 as part of an affluent merchant row by Stephen Van Rensselaer. This landmark structure at 190 Grand Street survived neighborhood shifts from elite residences to German immigrants in Kleindeutschland, then Italian influx in Little Italy, and now a diverse Chinatown presence. The pasta is handmade daily in their Woodside warehouse, preserving century-old traditions amid NYC's changes.

Fresh Pasta Offerings

Step inside for an array of fresh pasta that embodies Italian authenticity. Signature ravioli fillings include lobster, goat cheese, pumpkin, spinach and cheese, beet broccoli tortellini, and even vegan tofu-spinach options. Extruded pastas like garlic fettuccine, rainbow pappardelle, squid ink fettuccine, and spinach fettuccine shine for their quality. Dry pasta and accompaniments round out the selection. Their standout San Marzano tomato sauce, free of sugar and preservatives, pairs perfectly with gnocchi or any fresh noodle, earning raves for its pure flavor.

Sauces and Complementary Products

Beyond pasta, Piemonte excels in housemade sauces like pesto rivaling homemade versions. Cheeses complement every purchase, ideal for take-home meals. Customers praise the helpful staff who guide preparation, ensuring restaurant-quality results at home. From meat to vegetarian ravioli, the variety suits families, couples, and solo cooks seeking premium ingredients unavailable in standard markets.

Neighborhood Context

Adjacent to Florio's Ristorante at 192 Grand, Piemonte anchors Little Italy's culinary scene. The shop's survival in a landmark building highlights resilience against urban evolution. Open Tuesday through Saturday from 8:30am to 6pm, it's a quick stop for locals and visitors exploring Nolita's streets. Inexpensive pricing makes it accessible for stocking pantries with gourmet touches.

Visitor Experience

The compact retail space buzzes with the scent of fresh dough and sauce. Grab packages for immediate cooking or freezing. It's old-school charm at its best—no frills, just exceptional product. Regulars return monthly for staples, impressing dinner guests with lobster ravioli or Gorgonzola varieties. A must for Italophiles in NYC.