If you’ve been past the Riverfront at Cranford  Station Complex   that is being constructed along South Avenue in Downtown Cranford, you’ve probably seen signs in the first floor windows for ” Pastosa Ravioli – Coming Soon!” Following in Starbuck’s footsteps as a pre-construction completion tenant, Pastosa Ravioli promises to be an exciting addition to the Cranford community. 

Pastosa Ravioli (which is a deceiving name, since they sell FAR more than just ravioli!) was established by the Ajello family many years ago (in fact, they began their business the year I was born!!).    The business got its roots in Brooklyn (because where ELSE would an Italian food company get its start in the tri-state area?), and took off from there.   Prior to opening the first Pastosa Ravioli store in 1967, Anthony G. Ajello, worked as a salesman for the Polly-O Italian Cheese Company.  Anthony believed in the superiority and worth of the ricotta and mozzarella products that he sold throughout the New York Metropolitan area, and he was determined to provide his customers with first class products and first class service.  Thus Pastosa Raviloli was born.  The business quickly became a staple shop for Brooklynites, and Anthony, along with his son, Michael, and his partner Tony Postiglione, became known for raviolis of the highest quality made with the finest ingredients. As time passed and their reputation grew, so did the business!  (read their story here: http://www.pastosa.com/aboutus.asp)

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There are currently nine Pastosa Ravioli stores located throughout the New York – New Jersey area, and some of the specialty items are sold through other retail stores, as well.    In fact, while their products have long been available in frozen sections of many retailers throughout New Jersey, the Cranford store will be just the second licensed Pastosa Ravioli location in New Jersey and  the products will be delivered fresh daily directly from the Brooklyn flagship store.

Each Pastosa Ravioli store is filled to the brim with the complete line of Brooklyn’s finest ravioli and specialty pasta products, homemade sauces, fresh mozzarella cheese, prepared foods, Pastosa Brand tomatoes and olive oils, Boar’s Head cold cuts, plus prime cut meats and imported cheeses and succulent olives.  Are you salivating yet?  Check out their website, www.Pastosa.com, and take a look at how DEE-licious their products look!  WARNING – Do not go to website while hungry!

So if the boring store brand ravioli in the frozen food section of your local  superstore doesn’t do it for you, this place might just be your ticket to Italian cuisine happiness!!!  Pastosa Ravioli is looking forward to launching their Cranford, NJ store in Spring 2014, and I know for certain that many of our residents are counting the minutes until the doors open!