Four Corners explores local markets selling hard-to-find ingredients from around the globe. Got an idea for a place we should check out? Tell us in the comments.
By DCist Contributor Travis Mitchell
Located on Cleveland Park’s main strip, Vace Italian Deli (3315 Connecticut Avenue NW) is part deli, part pizzeria, and part Italian market. Open since 1976, the small storefront is the ideal spot to grab a slice of pizza or stock up on homemade pasta. There’s also a location in Bethesda (4705 Miller Avenue), though this story pertains to the D.C. flagship.
The well-organized shop is a paradise of Italian and speciality groceries. Here you’ll find all the ingredients needed for an Italian meal, from antipasti to dessert. And while certain items like Nutella and espresso can be found on the shelves of most grocery stores, the breadth and variety of options at Vace is outstanding. An example: there are seven flavors of Pellegrino soda including the less-common chinotto and aranciata rossa varieties, along with Stappj bitter red soda.
You can also choose from fresh and dry pasta in classic shapes like pappardelle and linguine, as well as ravioli, gnocchi, and agnolotti, to name a few. There’s an entire freezer full of ready-to-cook options—even full entrees like lasagna and stuffed shells.
In addition to groceries, Vace has become known for its pizzeria and deli. There’s no seating in the shop, but don’t let that deter you. The pizza in particular is simple, fresh, and economical: slices cost just $2.25 each and include cheese, pepperoni, mushroom, and two types of white pizza. The pies sell quickly during busy times, and inventory can fluctuate, but it’s worth waiting the few minutes it takes for the kitchen to bake a fresh pie. The staff will also heat up your slice on the spot for immediate, on-the-go consumption. You can also build your own medium or large pizza from the extensive menu of toppings. Choose from the basics, or splurge on ricotta salata, pine nuts or pancetta.
The deli sandwiches are also popular with customers. An Italian cold-cut sub is a bargain at $5.50 and a meatball sub can be had for $6.50. For dessert, consider grabbing a cannoli of sfogliatella from behind the counter. Or, opt for a package of hazelnut cookies or Italian nougat. Either way, it’s hard to go wrong at this little piece of Europe in the heart of Northwest.
Vace is open 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday, 9 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday.
