out and about in my neighborhood

Zeppe's Italian Market on 87th and Modaff - 

I am soooo lucky to have stores like this around the corner!

I like shopping at the little stores in my area. I am supporting anyone who goes into business for themselves. I know from experience how much harder you work when you are your own boss. Not to mention all the WONDERFUL food and clothing that come from these unique shops.

From Zeppe's Italian MarketI I bought the workings for a nice dinner for four. We start with some great smokey provolone cheese. Smooth and creamy with a hint of smokey flavor. Perfect for on top of a pizza, tomato basil soup, or in an omelet. Also is nice sliced thin as an appitizer.

I also love their spicy rich and fatty pepperonis and dried sausages. The pepperoni just slides onto your tongue and dissolves with a smooth rich meaty flavor and then it hits you with the spice. Whooooo! Spicy but not too spicy, just enough to get your nose engaged and running. 

I also like their other dried mild sausages. These are super rich and fatty and chewy. I dare you to eat one slice! They also have a delicate meaty flavor. It is hard to tell what is better, the smooth and chewy texture, or the flavor.

Either of these  sausages are great cut up as appitizers or added onto the focciacia. The Focciacia bread is made fresh at Palermo Bakery on Harlem in Chicago. Heat it in the oven for 10 minutes and it comes out slightly crispy yet still thick and fluffy...this stuff is GOLD! Add a bit of cheese and pepperoni to make it even more flavorful.

Rainbow pasta lobster ravoli is also an excellent choice. This is great mix of delicate flavors, the fresh pasta and the lobster. Eaten plain with butter and cheese or use a creamy sauce and your dinner guests will love it. I choose Zeppe's creamy vodka sauce and got rave reviews.

Dang if scooter riding won't make you fat! Ride and eat well my friends!