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Hailing from Packer Park, Anthony Messina and Frank Sangiuliano, whose clans co-own Pastificio Homemade Pasta Co., have always felt focused on providing provisions that will delight their neighbors. Those acquaintances and many other locals have honored their commitment to ensuring contentment, naming their establishment, 1528 Packer Ave., top Italian specialty store.
“We have passion for offering this food,” Messina, brother-in-law to Sangiuliano, said of how the two proprietors and their colleagues have garnered respect, including a 2013 Philadelphia Magazine nod as the city’s best Italian hoagie crafter.
“These are items that we grew up with, like so many other people, so we love extending our enthusiasm to the community,” Sangiuliano added.
Their 10-year-old venture, fittingly, based on its name, has generated renown for its 20 pasta offerings, with many other labors of love securing their sanctity among South Philly residents. Sangiuliano attributed their growth to input from customers, with Messina noting how grateful he feels knowing that Pastificio has become a go-to source for many households’ festive occasions and a destination for professional athletes, too.
“That and everything else make us feel honored,” the latter businessman said, with a mozzarella bunny hoping to hop into homes for Easter Sunday.
In an era where convenience is key for eager stomachs, Pastificio aims to sate immediate needs and guarantee a cure for future wants.
“We feel privileged,” Sangiuliano said of winning. “We aspire to hit the mark every time.”
DiBruno Bros. prepared a second-place finish, with Matteo’s rolling into third.
Contact Managing Editor Joseph Myers at jmyers@southphillyreview.com or ext. 124.
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