Walking into Enzo’s Italian Market in Charlotte NC is like stepping into a bustling food hall in the heart of Sicily. Or imagine a corner deli in Brooklyn’s Little Italy. Only it’s right here in the Carolinas. With locations in Stallings, NC; Lancaster, SC; and a new one coming soon to Matthews, this virtual Italian emporium is more than just a market. It’s a full-on Italian experience where every bite tells a story.
Founded in 2009 by Enzo LoRe, a Sicilian native with a passion for old-world flavors and family recipes, Enzo’s Italian Market was built on the desire to bring a taste of LoRe’s home to the Carolinas. After 13 years of delighting locals with handcrafted sausages, fresh-cut meats, and imported Italian delicacies, in 2022, Enzo himself stepped back from the day-to-day business. A that time, his longtime friend, Gregory Tigani. Tigani committed to honoring Enzo’s vision while expanding on it.
Today, Enzo’s Italian Market continues to serve as a culinary haven for anyone craving the authentic taste of Italy. The experience begins the moment you walk through the doors. You’ll discover the rich aroma of simmering sauces, warm bread fresh from the oven, and cured meats lining the counters.
From Nonna’s Kitchen to Your Table
At Enzo’s, authenticity isn’t a buzzword — it’s a way of life. Every product is either homemade or hand-selected from Italy or New York, ensuring customers get nothing but the best. From imported olive oils and dried pastas to aged Parmigiano Reggiano and house-made porchetta roasts, the market offers a dazzling variety of Italian staples and gourmet specialties.
Their butcher shop is a standout. In particular, it’s known for its fresh-cut meats, veal chops, and signature New York-style Italian pinwheels and traditional sausages. The prepared foods section is equally impressive. It features Sicilian classics like Arancini, chicken cutlets scallopini style, and pork and beef braciole. Plus, there’s a robust selection of homemade soups, sauces, and meatballs.
For those short on time but not on taste, Enzo’s “take n’ bake” meals — around 20 rotating entrees — offer a home-cooked dinner without the prep. Add in weekly chef specials by the market’s own Chef Rita, and there’s always something new and delicious to discover.
A Culinary Classroom
Enzo’s Italian Market isn’t just about eating. It’s also about learning and connecting with Italian food culture. Through cooking demonstrations, tasting events, and friendly conversations with knowledgeable staff, customers get a chance to understand the why behind the flavors. Every product has a story, from the region it hails from to the traditional recipes it’s rooted in.
This educational, immersive experience is what sets Enzo’s Italian Market apart.
The Legacy Lives On at Enzo’s Italian Market in Charlotte NC
As Enzo’s Italian Market prepares to open its newest location in Matthews, the market continues to expand its reach without losing sight of its roots. With each new offering, they further Enzo LoRe’s legacy. And that means sharing the joy of Italian cooking one dish, one ingredient, one meal at a time.
Whether you’re a longtime regular or a first-time visitor, Enzo’s Italian Market promises more than a shopping trip. It delivers a memorable journey through the heart of Italy, right here in your backyard.
