Become friends, family

“Over food, strangers become friends and friends become family,” explains Tina-Marie Schultz, quoting her Nonna (grandma) Rosa Bonaventura, after whom Rosa’s Italian Market and Deli is named. It’s located across from Post Falls’ newly constructed City Hall in the town’s only historic-registry home, which Schultz converted to include indoor and outdoor dining.

Rosa’s place is abundantly about food: take-home entrees, fresh or frozen; pastries and breads, fresh or frozen; assorted wines, dried pastas, sauces, and a small wall of other market items; an espresso bar, and a dine-in menu of sandwiches (hot to cold), soups, salads, frittatas (like a quiche), pizza by the slice, and even breakfast.

Cold sandwiches like muffuletta ($7) — cappicolla ham, salami, mortadella, Fontina cheese, giardinierei (pickled vegetables), lettuce and tomato — showcase recipes and ingredients dating back to early American immigrant history, in this case the Sicilians in New Orleans. The Sinatra sandwich tips its hat to the legendary entertainer with sopressata and other salamis, sun-dried tomatoes and fresh mozzarella cheese ($7). Hot subs include Sabrett-brand hot dogs with sautéed potatoes, onions and peppers, inspired by Schultz’s other grandma, Nonna Tillie, and the ubiquitous meatball sub (both $7.25).

For dessert, traditional Italian treats include cannoli ($3.50) and decadent tiramisu ($4.99): lady finger cakes soaked in espresso and topped with a sort of mascarpone cheese custard, then a layer of cocoa.

With local delivery available, your dinner tonight could be veal or chicken parmesan, meatballs or pasta and marinara, pesto and other sauces (prices vary). An online menu makes ordering easy — and if you don’t know, Schultz can help you figure out what you need. — CARRIE SCOZZARO

Rosa’s Italian Market and Deli, 120 E. Fourth St., Post Falls, Idaho, is open Mon-Fri 7 am–6 pm, Sat 8 am-5 pm. Visit www.rosasmarket.com or call (208) 777-7400.