Gift cards are a dime a dozen these days and perhaps a tired gift idea for discerning Atlantans seeking unique gifts for family and friends this holiday season.  A visit to Plantation Italia in Alpharetta might just be the perfect answer.  One trip to this Italian Foods Marketplace and you’ll likely be hooked.  The flavor is definitely Italian, and it should be.  “All of our product is authentic, and 99 percent of all that we carry is made in Italy,” said Bill Ashworth, co-owner of Plantation Italia.  Ashworth and his wife, Diana, are both New Jersey transplants and are true connoisseurs when it comes to real Italian fare.

One of a mere handful of Italian marketplaces in the Atlanta area, Plantation Italia carries product that won’t be found in the ‘big box’ supermarkets.  In fact, the Ashworths are expecting delivery soon on several items that are available just one time a year, so once they’re sold, they’re not available again till next season.  Imported straight from Italy, three items that are available for a limited time include:

Ø  Marrous Glaces – these sweet treats are candied chestnuts made specifically for the holiday period.  You won’t find them in July.

Ø  Panettone – this Italian delicacy is an original recipe item from Milan and flavors are imported from specific regions of Italy; Milan, Piedmonte, Veneto regions -  and feature Lemon Crème, Chocolate and Pear Panettones, as well as Crema Gianduja Pandoro

Ø  Biscotti Jars from Tuscany – beautifully hand-painted jars of varying sizes, including the Grape Jar Florentine, Florentine Fruit, Florentine Pedestal Jar and Florentine Spout Jar, are all filled with authentic Italian biscotti.
 
Additionally, traditional sausages – including Cotechino and Zampone Di Modena – will be available during the holiday season.  Those with Italian roots know that tradition calls for eating Cotechino on New Year’s Day for good luck.  And you don’t have to be Italian to become a fan of this specialty fare.

Prusciutto di Parma is a holiday favorite but can be found year-round at Plantation Italia.  But it’s the good stuff.  “Our pruscuitto really is  exceptional because it’s authentic and it’s aged for the appropriate length of time,” explained Ashworth.  “Italian prusciutto isn’t even sold till it’s been aged for at least 18 months, and typically 24 months is the norm,” he continued.   

Those planning family get-togethers, open houses and parties can contact Plantation Italia for catering options, too.  “We’re providing an Italian evening for a client entertaining 30 family members, and it includes imported meats, cheeses, pasta, breads and other items from our store that will make for a complete meal,” said Ashworth.  A deli can be found in the back of the store that looks very much like a New York deli and is full of an array of fresh meats and cheeses, not to mention ‘to go’ lasagna meals for two, homemade meatballs, olives and more. 

Plantation Italia is open Monday through Saturday 9am - 7pm and Sunday 10 am - 5 pm and is located in Alpharetta, GA, in Mardi Gras Plaza, 5155 Highway 9 North, Suite 105.   

About Plantation Italia

Plantation Italia is a fine Italian foods marketplace located in Alpharetta, GA, offering authentic Italian meats, cheeses, pastas, breads, olive oils, balsamic vinegars, espresso coffees, condiments, chocolates and pastries, along with an array of beautifully-packaged gift items from Italy.  The company is committed to selecting the finest products, rich in tradition, offering qualities that distinguish them from other mass-produced foods.  Plantation Italia also offers a variety of deli sandwiches, homemade ‘easy bake’ takeout entrees, party trays and imported gifts.  Customer service is key and imparting knowledge is something owners Bill and Diana Ashworth enjoy sharing with their customers.  Plantation Italia hosts periodic tastings at the store and offers catering services as well.  For more information, call (770) 475-7060 or visit www.plantationitalia.com.