Where to get meats for an antipasto tray? While Googling this question over a year ago, I came across listings and rave reviews for Jimmy’s Food Store (http://www.jimmysfoodstore.com/index.php). For whatever reason, I couldn’t or didn’t make it to Jimmy’s Food Store, but it has been on my list of places to visit.
Ever-Lovin’ and I went, and we will go again. Be still my heart. Jimmy’s Food Store is like a neighborhood market – but it is a market filled with “fine” Italian imports and speciality foods.
They even carry Texas specialties.
Do not expect ambiance. Maybe the stacks of boxes filling the aisles, concrete floors, and missing ceiling tiles equals ambiance. It doesn’t matter. What really matters is the food.
Number one goal was to buy sandwiches for lunch. The reviews mentioned to go to the back of the store, and on the right side of the meat counter, you could order fantastic sandwiches. And we did. This is the cute and funny man that took our sandwich order. See the ladies in the background? They + about four others were the sandwich makers. For a “hole-in-the wall” establishment, they do a fantastic business.
They are so proud of the “Wine Room” in the back of the store. It is small, but you can grab an Italian soda, beer or wine and eat your sandwiches here. From what I understand, Jimmy’s Food Store only carries Italian wines, and they regularly sponsor wine tastings in this room. We were on a schedule and took our sandwiches to-go, but while we were waiting for our sandwiches, I shopped (mainly window shopped) around the store.
The deli case was filled with imported and domestic cheeses, Italian meats, and olives. I wanted to try all of them. Look on their web site to see the listings of the specialty items they carry.
The meat market was small but enticing. Gorgeous meats, and the prices were okay.
The DiCarlo family (owners of Jimmy’s Food Store for 42 years) sells handmade Italian sausage (hot and mild) (bulk and links). I had to try this. (Will tell of our pizza in another blog) Other DiCarlo Family Specialties include Mamma’s Meatballs, Frozen Lasagna, and Italian Cakes and Cookies.
How pretty is this sandwich? It is called the Italian sub, and it was delicious. There were four meats, provolone cheese, and all the veggies. The sauce was slightly spicy.
The award winning muffuletta was gigantic. I ordered the six inch, but I swear it was larger.
Just look at this goodness – Italian ham and cheese with olive salad. I liked it. I loved it. All of the sandwiches can be made on white or wheat bread. Later I read that you can ask for the sandwiches to be toasted. Next time I will do that.
Looking forward to returning to Jimmy’s Food Store. While visiting Jimmy’s, I felt like Ina Garten (Barefoot Contessa) when she visits speciality food stores, but the best part was – I was in Dallas, Texas. Life is good.
Blessings to you and yours,