We recently took a day trip to Port Chester, NY – our old stomping grounds.  Affectionately known to the locals as “PoCho”, this  old-world village is deep within a stunning rejunification, attracting shopping centers, movie theaters, and waterfront condos.  The most recent additions lining the downtown streets are the triptych empire from Batali and Bastianich’s culinary fusion.

The successful launch of Tarry Lodge restaurant has paved the way for Tarry Wine and Tarry Market.   I’m thinking, with the re-emergence of this quaint village also brings with it a new nickname  – “Po Lita”!

Residing in an old elevator factory, Tarry Market is located on the corner of Main and Mill streets, conveniently next to Tarry Lodge .  The updated decor has old world Italian charm, featuring exposed ceilings and beams, stone floors, antiques scales, rustic crates and large inviting bay windows, enticing passers-by to come in and take a look.

The Italian market has a butcher shop where the meat is supplied by Pat La Frieda, known as the wholesale meat purveyor to the star chefs, offering dry-aged prime beef, rabbit, duck and cured meats like the salumi.

The cheesemonger displays an array of formaggi, like aged Parmesan and mozzarella di bufala, ready for the pairing of a great wine next door at Terry Wine.

Upon entering, you are greeted with the espresso bar lined with a wide selection of coffee, desserts and gelatos.

What has me most impressed is the Fresh homemade pasta selection.

Reminiscent of an Italian country villa, the market boasts flavors such as squid-ink pasta, goat cheese and chive agnolotti, duck liver or veal ravioli and one of my personal favorites, pappardelle.

Moreover, the market specializes in fresh oven-baked artisanal breads and the shelves are lined with authentic Italian groceries –  some that may have been previously hard to find, but no more.

What could be better, well, I’ll tell ya…   pretty soon Tarry Market will begin to produce their very own sausage on premises.  As the spring approaches, homegrown fruits and vegetables plucked fresh from the roof-top garden will be sprouting out of the cupboards.  Currently the market buys locally grown produce, cheese and milk.

I adore this small town with it’s metropolitan city landscape tied together with the backdrop of the Connecticut countryside.  It’s like getting a little taste of both worlds, well, actually now you can even get a taste of Italy here.

On our next visit, I’ll be sure to pay homage to Mr. Batali by donning my signature crocs as well.