Discover Gustiamo: The Best Italian Food in the USA

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Explore Gustiamo, New York's premier Italian food importer, bringing authentic flavors and quality products to American kitchens for over 25 years.

Gustiamo is more than just an online store; it’s a celebration of authentic Italian cuisine brought directly to the United States. Founded 25 years ago by Beatrice Ughi, a Neapolitan who has dedicated her life to sourcing the best Italian products, Gustiamo aims to provide high-quality food while supporting local producers in Italy. As reported by the Los Angeles Times, Gustiamo has become a staple for chefs and home cooks alike, offering everything from artisanal pasta to premium olive oil.

The Story Behind Gustiamo

Beatrice Ughi began her journey in the food industry after working in finance at Ernst & Young. Her passion for quality Italian products led her to start Gustiamo when e-commerce was still a novel concept. Since then, she has built strong relationships with farmers and producers across Italy, ensuring that each product meets high standards of quality and authenticity. Ughi’s commitment to transparency and fair pricing is evident in every aspect of the business, making Gustiamo a trusted source for authentic Italian ingredients.

A Diverse Range of Products

Gustiamo offers around 300 carefully selected products on its website, including:

• Canned tomatoes: Sourced from renowned farms like Sabatino Abagnale.
• Pasta: Handcrafted varieties that reflect traditional methods.
• Extra virgin olive oils: From regions like Molise and Tuscany.
• Specialty items: Such as capers from Pantelleria and hand-harvested sea salt.

Each product not only represents the rich culinary heritage of Italy but also supports sustainable farming practices. Ughi believes in building personal relationships with each producer, which enhances the quality of the offerings.

Commitment to Quality and Sustainability

At Gustiamo, quality isn’t just about taste; it’s about the entire production process. The company emphasizes:

• Ethical sourcing: All products are sourced from producers who prioritize fair labor practices and environmental sustainability.
• Craftsmanship: Many items are made using traditional methods that preserve flavors and nutritional value.
• Community support: By importing these products, Gustiamo helps sustain local economies in Italy while providing Americans with access to authentic flavors.

In 2023, Beatrice Ughi was honored as a Cavaliere della Repubblica Italiana for her contributions to promoting Italian culture through food in America. This recognition underscores her dedication not only to quality but also to fostering cultural connections through cuisine.

Navigating the American Market

For those looking to enjoy these delicious products, navigating the regulations of importing food into the United States can be daunting. Gustiamo assists restaurants and consumers alike by providing guidance on FDA certifications necessary for selling imported goods. This comprehensive support system ensures that customers can focus on what truly matters—enjoying exceptional Italian cuisine without hassle.

Unique Offerings and Tasting Experiences

Gustiamo is not just about selling products; it’s about creating experiences. For instance:

• Collaborations with famous chefs like Massimo Bottura have led to unique limited-edition oils where proceeds benefit social causes.
• Events featuring guest chefs highlight traditional recipes that use Gustiamo ingredients, creating memorable culinary experiences.
• Regular tastings at their Bronx warehouse showcase their extensive product line while fostering community engagement among local food lovers.

During one such event documented by Laurie Ochoa from the Los Angeles Times, attendees enjoyed communal meals featuring classic dishes prepared with Gustiamo’s products—a testament to how food brings people together.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a professional chef or simply love cooking at home, Gustiamo offers an unparalleled selection of authentic Italian foods that enhance any culinary experience. Their commitment to quality ensures that every bite transports you straight to Italy. With ongoing support for local producers and an emphasis on sustainability, choosing Gustiamo means supporting both exceptional taste and ethical practices.

Photo by Todd Quackenbush on Unsplash