Kitchissippi Times
May 3, 2012 • Page 25
Ottawa’s Fresh Pasta Tradition
s and fresh is our unique production A big part of what makes Parma Ravioli’s products so deliciou age-old recipes using high quality ng recreati chefs and process which sees skilled pasta makers Righi Richard partner explains ent,” equipm modern
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here’s something about Italian cuisine that is oh-so-satisfying. Who doesn’t crave fresh pasta, flavourful sauce, maybe some garlic bread to go with it? For the most authentic, delicious Italian fare, Parma Ravioli can’t be beaten. Brothers Giuliano – a certified Master Chef – and Carlo Zucconi, along with partner Richard Righi, knew they were onto a good thing when they began wholesaling 20 years ago and found there was a great market for freshly prepared, wholesome products. They decided to add a retail component when they opened their Wellington Street West shop in 1995 to capitalize on the area’s strong foot traffic. “We have always been proud to offer our retail customers the same restaurant-quality goods that hotels and catering companies enjoy,” confirms Richard. From the moment you step into their lively store, you’re enveloped in mouthwatering aromas, coupled with all the sights and sounds of a lively, old-world Italian food shop, decorated with flair. Take a moment to watch pasta being hand made in the back, before browsing through the carefullyselected Italian grocery items. Peruse the well-stocked freezers for a few goodies to tuck away for a day when you are too busy to cook, then choose a container or two of sauce and some fresh pasta – long or short – to take home and enjoy. “From our fresh pastas to our ‘heat and serve’ convenience foods, Parma Ravioli’s se-
lection is unmatched anywhere in Ottawa,” says Richard. “People often tell us that the first time they take our food home, it’s because it is convenient. Then they taste how delicious it is and they keep coming back. We have many customers who tell us our sauces remind them of what their nonna (grandmother) used to make. That’s a pretty big compliment.” Parma Ravioli’s selection is impressively vast. “You could easily serve 365 different meals, one for each day of the year, using our products,” he explains. “We focus on traditional foods as well as more upscale gourmet fare. The real value is the fact that we base our dishes on fresh, house-made pasta which gives our foods a much more satisfying texture and flavour. A big part of what makes Parma Ravioli’s products so delicious and fresh is our unique production process which sees skilled pasta makers and chefs recreating age-old recipes using high quality modern equipment,” explains Richard. Not to be missed are Parma Ravioli’s decadent desserts. Tiramisu and cannoli are made in house, with a local master baker augmenting the selection with a wide range of fresh mousse cakes, cheesecakes, pies and more. Many desserts are offered in individual serving which make for attractive and easy presentation. Packaged for convenience in a range of sizes, all of Parma Ravioli’s prepared foods are reasonably priced and come with heat-
ing instructions and ingredient lists. “We have a real diversified clientele – individuals shopping for themselves or for elderly parents as well as those feeding a family. We have people who come from all over the region to stock up; many tell us they deliver our foods to family members in hospital or to help out busy new mothers. Everyone appreciates how quick and easy our dishes are to prepare and the fact that they are created using local ingredients whenever possible, with no additives or preservatives.” In addition to their retail and wholesale operations, Parma Ravioli also offers a flexible, simplified catering service. “It’s a very streamlined operation which also makes it very cost effective,” explains Richard. “We go with the industry-standard sizing, selling foods by the full or half pan. Whether your group is 10 people or 200, you can enjoy the traditional flavours associated with Italian cuisine made fresh to order. We consult with you to help put together a menu and recommend the appropriate portions.” You can pick up your catering order heated and ready to serve, or take it to your event to reheat later. It’s ideal for family reunions, corporate events, parties and more. A more recent addition to the Parma Ravioli shop came about by popular demand – their busy X-press lunch counter which offers generous portions at surprisingly low prices. “From pasta to focaccia-style pizza to salads to our fan favourites, the chicken parmigiana
sandwich and meatball sandwich, this area really offers great variety. Dishes are prepared a la minute using our same great fresh pasta products.” “The business has evolved since we opened,” Richard adds. “We are constantly monitoring trends in the food industry and paying attention to what the public is looking for. We now offer whole wheat and spelt pastas, for example, and carry a specialty selection of gluten free grocery items as well. It’s all about giving people what they want and making our shop a pleasant place to visit. We are proud to have become Ottawa’s fresh pasta tradition.”
Parma Ravioli
1314 Wellington Street West Ottawa, Ontario P|613.722.6003 www.parmaravioli.ca
“Ottawa’s Fresh Pasta Tradition”