Canton Importing

Fall 2006

     

     Fifteen kinds of olives; American, French, Bulgarian, and Greek feta cheese; grape leaves; Italian prosciutto; pine nuts (in bulk); cracked wheat; sea salt from Greece; arborio rice; tahini; rose water; Parmigiano-Reggiano; fava beans—I wanted one of everything when I toured Canton Importing Company’s store with Nick Regas, one of the owners. 

     Originally opened by Nick’s parents, Sam and Pat Regas, in 1960 to serve Canton’s Greek and Italian population, Canton Importing’s business continues to grow, offering a rich selection of foods for all of us who love Greek, Italian, Middle Eastern, and Spanish cuisines. 

     The store has a full deli, including sausages made by Sam and a broad selection of cured meats and cheeses.  Among Canton Importing’s specialties are fresh filo pastry dough (much easier to work with than frozen) and a wide array of Italian and Greek olive oils. 

     On Fridays and Saturdays, the store also carries freshly baked breads from the locally famous Tony’s Bakery.  You can even pick up a nice bottle of wine for dinner from Canton Importing’s  well chosen selection.

     As I was leaving the store after my tour, I noticed a large, bucket-shaped, caramel-colored piece of something I couldn’t identify sitting on a sheet pan on top of the deli counter.  I asked Nick what it was and he replied that it was halvah, a Middle Eastern confection made from ground sesame seeds and honey.  He offered me a taste—it was delicious, with a deep, nutty flavor complemented beautifully by the sweetness of the honey.  Another reason to go back to Canton Importing.