Piemonte Ravioli

History and Heritage

Established in 1920 by a Genoese immigrant, Piemonte Ravioli took root at 190 Grand Street in what was once an elegant Federal-style row house built between 1820 and 1834 by Stephen Van Rensselaer. This investment property shifted from affluent residences to commercial spaces, hosting a millinery shop, musical instrument store, and rooming houses filled with German and later Italian immigrants. In 1955, Mario Bertorelli from Parma assumed ownership, passing it to his son Flavio. The family continues daily pasta production in their Woodside warehouse, preserving traditions through neighborhood changes from Little Italy to a diverse Chinatown influence. The building's ground floor anchors this enduring story, with upstairs once echoing Italian chatter.

Fresh Pasta Offerings

Piemonte Ravioli specializes in handmade fresh pasta, including ravioli stuffed with meat, lobster, pumpkin, goat cheese, and gorgonzola; tortellini; garlic fettuccine; and spinach varieties. Accompanying sauces like San Marzano tomato, pesto, and others elevate home cooking. Dry pasta and cheeses complement the selection. All fresh items arrive daily from the warehouse, ensuring peak quality. Customers rave about flavors rivaling homemade, with staff offering preparation tips for perfect results.

Location and Atmosphere

At 190 Grand Street in Manhattan's Little Italy, next to Florio's Ristorante, the shop occupies a landmark site considered for preservation. The compact retail space buzzes with authentic Italian grocery charm, shelves lined with vibrant pasta packages amid the neighborhood's bustling streets. It's an old-school spot unchanged by time, drawing locals and visitors for quick grabs or monthly hauls.

Practical Visitor Info

Open Tuesday through Saturday from 8:30am to 6pm (specific hours vary slightly by day), it's closed Mondays and Sundays. Phone ahead for stock. Inexpensive pricing suits budget cooks. No seating, but ideal for takeout to nearby parks or home kitchens. Public transit via subway to Canal Street or bus lines serves the area well.

Culinary Legacy

This shop stands as a testament to New York's Italian diaspora, offering pasta that captures Genoa and Parma's essence. From Civil War-era adaptations to modern diversity, 190 Grand endures, inviting all to savor history in every bite.