After a long work week, the desire for a comforting and delicious meal is often paramount. Instead of the usual Friday night routine, a venture to Dunwoody led to the discovery of a true gem: E. 48th Street Market. This venerable establishment, a fixture in the community since 1986, offers a taste of Italy right in the heart of Dunwoody, Georgia. Stepping into E. 48th Street Market is like stepping back in time to a classic neighborhood grocery, a welcome change from modern, impersonal dining experiences.
E. 48th Street Market’s story began with Charlie and Anita Augello, who envisioned a place that echoed the warmth and community spirit of traditional Italian markets. Initially conceived as a purveyor of fine Italian ingredients, the market has evolved over the years while staying true to its original mission. From its humble beginnings as a storefront stocked with imported olive oils, wines, and artisanal flours, it has grown to become a beloved local eatery and specialty food store. The aroma of freshly baked bread and the sight of colorful pasta salads greet you upon entering, instantly transporting you to a cozy Italian kitchen.
E 48th Street Market Dunwoody storefront in strip mall
A Taste of Italy: Dining at E. 48th Street Market
While E. 48th Street Market retains its charm as a specialty grocery, it’s the food that truly shines. The menu boasts a wide array of Italian-American favorites, from hearty pasta dishes to generously filled hero sandwiches. The atmosphere is casual and inviting, perfect for a relaxed lunch or dinner.
Pasta Perfection
On this particular visit, the pasta dishes were a highlight. The linguini with marinara sauce, topped with a meatball and sausage, proved to be a satisfying choice. While the marinara was described as solid and enjoyable, the real stars of the plate were the meats. The meatball was praised for its exceptional quality, and the sausage was deemed “to die for,” lauded for its tenderness and perfect blend of spices. This speaks to the market’s commitment to using high-quality ingredients and preparing them with care.
Diners enjoying pasta and sandwiches at E 48th Street Market Dunwoody outdoor seating
Heroic Sandwiches: A Menu of 26 Options
For sandwich lovers, E. 48th Street Market is a veritable paradise. With an impressive menu featuring 26 different hero sandwiches, deciding can be a delightful challenge. The choice ultimately landed on the Italian beef with hot Giardinera pepper relish, a classic option that hadn’t been enjoyed in far too long. The sandwich was a success, particularly due to the exceptional bread. The bread, perfectly crusty on the outside yet soft and airy on the inside, is a testament to the market’s dedication to even the simplest components of their dishes. The “stoffato,” a signature sandwich with salami and two types of ham, is already on the list for the next visit, showcasing the enticing variety available.
E 48th Street Market Dunwoody interior deli counter with sandwich and pasta selections
Friendly Service and Community Spirit
Beyond the delicious food, the charm of E. 48th Street Market extends to its staff. The service is described as friendly and genuinely helpful, with employees who seem to take pleasure in assisting customers with their selections. This welcoming atmosphere contributes to the market’s strong local following. It’s a popular destination for families in the area and a go-to spot for those assembling picnic baskets for outings to the numerous schools and academies nearby. The enduring popularity of E. 48th Street Market is clearly well-deserved, rooted in its quality food, inviting ambiance, and dedicated service.
A Minor Sweet Treat Detour
While the experience at E. 48th Street Market was overwhelmingly positive, a post-dinner craving for ice cream led to a brief and less satisfactory detour to a Carvel store within the same strip mall. This part of the evening, while not directly related to E. 48th Street Market, serves as a humorous contrast to the market’s genuine offerings. The Carvel experience, involving misleading milkshake advertising and rapidly melting soft serve, highlighted the value of sticking with quality and authenticity, qualities readily found at E. 48th Street Market.
Disappointing melted sundae from Carvel in Dunwoody
Final Verdict: A Must-Visit in Dunwoody
E. 48th Street Market in Dunwoody is more than just a place to grab a meal; it’s a local institution that embodies the spirit of a neighborhood Italian market. From its rich history and carefully curated grocery selection to its delicious and comforting food, it offers a genuine and enjoyable experience. Whether you’re seeking authentic Italian ingredients, a satisfying pasta dish, or a perfectly crafted sandwich, E. 48th Street Market is a destination worth discovering and revisiting. For those in Dunwoody or passing through, be sure to experience the flavors and charm of this enduring local favorite.
