Craving a cannoli that tastes like it’s straight from Sicily? Or maybe you’re just tired of bland grocery-store pasta? Cantoro’s Italian Market in Plymouth, Michigan, has been solving these problems since 1968. Walk in for the fresh mozzarella, stay for the warm, family-run vibe—and leave with a cart full of Italy.
A Family Legacy with Italian Roots
Cantoro’s isn’t just any market; it’s a story decades in the making. The journey began in Sant’Elia, Italy, during World War II with Mario Fallone. After immigrating to Detroit in the 1950s, Mario honed his skills in grocery and sales before purchasing the original Cantoro Italian Market in 1968. Fast forward to today, and this family-owned business is still run with love by Mario’s sons, John and Michael, along with their brother-in-law Edie. It’s not just a market; it’s a legacy of passion for food and community.
Market Meets Trattoria: A Perfect Combo
At Cantoro’s Plymouth location, you get the best of both worlds—a bustling Italian market and an inviting trattoria. The market is stocked with everything you need to cook like a true Italian nonna: fresh pasta, imported olive oils, aged cheeses, and more cured meats than you can count. Meanwhile, the trattoria serves up mouthwatering dishes that’ll make you question why you ever settled for frozen pizza.
What’s Cooking? Highlights from the Menu
The trattoria inside Cantoro’s is where the magic happens. Here are just a few items that’ll have your taste buds doing a happy dance:
- Margherita Pizza: Simple but oh-so-satisfying, this classic pizza is topped with fresh mozzarella, basil, and San Marzano tomatoes.
- Tagliatelle Bolognese: House-made pasta smothered in a rich meat sauce that tastes like it came straight out of Bologna.
- Seafood Risotto: Creamy risotto loaded with shrimp, scallops, and calamari—because carbs and seafood are always a good idea.
- Tiramisu: End your meal on a sweet note with this dreamy dessert layered with mascarpone and espresso-soaked ladyfingers.
And if you’re just stopping by for coffee? Their espresso bar is ready to serve you a perfect shot of liquid energy.
Shopping Like an Italian Pro
Cantoro’s market isn’t just about food; it’s about quality ingredients that transport you straight to Italy. Here are some must-buys:
- Fresh Pasta: Why settle for boxed when you can have fresh?
- Imported Wines: Pair your meals like an Italian sommelier with their impressive wine selection.
- Artisan Bread: Crusty on the outside, soft on the inside—perfect for dipping into olive oil or sauce.
- Dolci (Sweets): Cannoli? Check. Biscotti? Double check. Your sweet tooth will thank you.
Pro tip: Don’t leave without grabbing some gelato from their freezer section—it’s as close to Roman gelaterias as you’ll get in Michigan.
Store Hours That Work for You
Cantoro’s knows life gets busy, so they’ve got hours that fit almost any schedule:
- Monday through Saturday: 8 AM – 8 PM
- Sunday: 9 AM – 5 PM
Whether you’re an early bird picking up fresh bread or someone squeezing in dinner after work, they’ve got you covered.
Why Plymouth Loves Cantoro’s
What sets Cantoro’s apart isn’t just its authentic offerings—it’s the vibe. The staff treats you like family (the kind that actually likes each other), and the atmosphere feels like a bustling Italian piazza. It’s not uncommon to see locals chatting over espresso or debating which olive oil reigns supreme.
Cantoro’s isn’t just about selling food; it’s about creating connections—between people, cultures, and flavors. So next time you’re driving down Haggerty Road and your stomach starts growling, stop by Cantoro’s Italian Market. You might walk in for groceries but leave with much more than that—a full belly and maybe even a new favorite spot in town!
Sources: cantoromarket.com, Cantoro Italian Market & Trattoria Facebook Page, Cantoro Italian Market & Trattoria Instagram Page
Header Image Source: cantoromarket.com
