We were invited to the pre-opening party at The Market. The official opening is May 20th. From their brochure:
“Fresh, fun and local, The Market is a delicious collection of organic, artisanal and gourmet food and gifts. Our hand-picked independently owned shops offer a food experience unlike anything else in Southern California.” By far our favorite was Primi and Norcini from Piero Selvaggio.
Being greeted at the door with Beachy Cream in the background – “retro-chic, organic ice cream sandwiches”
Rockenwagner Bakery
More Rockenwagner Bakery
Rockenwagner Bakery – a movie of the bread baking
I don’t know if these were samples or for sale – Rockenwagner
Magical Blooms
Groundwork Coffee Company
Norcino Salumeria Cheese Bar – each person received a wonderful salumi and cheese plate – unlimited seconds/thirds etc.
Gorgeous Salumi from Norcino
Even more terrific salumi
Cheese presentation from Norcini
Unbelievable cheese to purchase from Norcini
Primi Al Mercato – both fresh pasta made on the premises and premium dried pasta can be bought. Also a “casual trattoria highlighting unusual and creative pasta will be served in small plates with fresh sauces made from Farmer’s Market ingredients.”
Making fresh pasta
Fresh pici pasta being made
Fresh pasta
Premium pasta, sauces and olive oil available for purchase
Executive Chef Nico plating pasta for tastes – only Piero Selvaggio really offered generous samples
Delicious pasta – ravioli was also served – no picture
More delicious pasta with Farmer’s Market fresh Vegetables
Bruschetta
The Curious Palate “is a market, kitchen and cafe specializing in artisan foods and farm-to-table service. In its market shoppers find hand-picked culinary items from around the world.” I don’t know if they were providing samples as I didn’t sit at the counter. I honestly don’t know if anything was being offered.
Counter at Curious Palate
Menu at Curious Palate
Other stores at The Market – not pictured – Benedetta specializing in holistic skin care, The Cookie Guru, Venkado an eclectic wine shop, L’Artisan du Chocolat, and N’Ice Cream – 85 flavors of organic, free-trade gelato and sorbet.
Obviously most of our time was spent hovering around Primi Al Mercato and Norcino Salumeria Cheese Bar.
Refined Palate 