Born in the small town of Vittorito, Italy, Carmine Giardini spent his early childhood going to school and helping with his family farm. As a young man, Carmine came to the United States to complete his schooling, unaware of the success to come.

Beginning as a butcher in Connecticut, Carmine found his passion for food and relocated to South Florida. His first venture was a meat market in Pembroke Pines he opened in 1972, which became the inspiration behind his current full-scaled specialty market. Having realized his potential, Carmine wanted to open a store featuring Italian favorites as well as baked goods, fresh seafood, and authentic pizza.

As time went on, Carmine opened 13 stores that included fresh produce, gourmet Italian groceries, and imported wines and cheeses. He hired a chef for prepared foods so the public could take home their favorite Italian dishes including chicken and veal options, along with his mother’s lasagna and meatballs. Finally, the day came to open his flagship store in Palm Beach Gardens.