Who would believe that a world-class purveyor of fresh pastas and ravioli, home-made pork or chicken sausage, prepared meals, family-recipe tomato sauces and more was tucked away in Auburndale?
Anybody who’s ever been to Durso’s, that’s who.
Since 1967, when Gerald Durso first opened his shop down the block from its present location – 189-01 Crocheron Avenue, at the corner of Utopia Parkway – it’s been an expanding family operation with its roots in the basic principles of Italian cucina – quality ingredients, simply and lovingly prepared.
The shop, remarkable for its aromas and the 30-foot case of prepared American and Italian dishes, 50 varieties of fresh pasta and several tomato sauces (gravy, to many paisani) is but the tip of the iceberg.
“People don’t realize the size of the kitchen and prep areas,” says Robert Durso, Jr. the third-generation manager. “We make all our own fresh pasta, ravioli, sausage and mozzarella.”
Executive chef Gerald Durso, Jr., adds new recipe ideas to traditional family favorites like Chicken Francese and Eggplant Rollatini and the tasty entrees from other cultures that Durso’s sells by the pound.
Durso’s also does equipment rental or full-service onsite catering with wait staff. They’ll even do the cooking at your place, according to Robert, who revealed that their latest innovation is e-commerce.
“We will be shipping our pastas, ravioli and sauces world-wide from our web site, www.Dursos.com,” he said.
Those closer to home can get free delivery, but most still visit the store – their private parking lot makes the trip so much easier – and who wants to miss those smells?
The Dursos are also slated to be stars on an upcoming episode of “THROWDOWN! with Bobby Flay” on the Food Network, competing with the master chef before a live audience of taster-judges.
You don’t have to wait for Durso’s food – unless it’s Monday, the one day they’re closed. Otherwise they open at 8:30 a.m. Tuesday through Friday they’re open until 7 p.m.; Saturday they close at 6 p.m.; Sunday at 4 p.m. All major credit cards accepted.
Want to know more? Call Durso’s at 718-358-1311.
