Claro's Italian Markets

About the Business

Specialties

Since 1948, Claro's Italian Market has offered a wide variety of imported and domestic specialty foods, fresh Italian sausage, baked goods, wines, and delicatessen products. Quality products offered by helpful , knowledgeable clerks in a charming old-fashioned atmosphere makes Claro's unique and special in the food business.

History

Established in 1948.

When 16-year-old Giuseppe Clarizio arrived in New York from Italy in 1922, he had less than $100 in his pocket, he didn't speak a word of English. With the help of Vito Nicassio, a distant cousin, he traveled to California and got a job in a packing house in Vernon. He was introduced to his future wife, Mary Carno by mutual friends. At first he lived with his in-laws in Boyle Heights where all of his three children were born. He worked hard and eventually saved enough to purchase a small house in Gardena. The young family scrimped and saved until they were able to buy a larger house in Alhambra. Grandpa Claro (Clarizio was shortened to Claro when they arrived in the US) jumped at the chance to trade his home for a small retail grocery store and meat market in San Gabriel when the owner wanted to retire. just a straight trade of property. Claro's Markets was born when his son Frank and his new bride Geraldine bought the store and decided to specialize in Italian food products.