Before Italian delicacies and speciality foods were readily available in supermarkets everywhere, I Camisa was one of the few Italian specialist grocery shops in London. Anybody who has been to a
salumeria or an
alimentari in Italy will know just what I mean. As you walk through the door you're accosted by a mixture of aromas: cheeses, hams, salamis, coffee etc. The Italian experience is replicated in Soho, where Camisa has been a family run business for 50 years.
Outside Camisa
A visit to Camisa in Old Compton Street is a similar experience. They sell all the above, as well as fresh and dried pasta (they stock a wide range of De Cecco, which is rated as
numero uno by many cooks and chefs) and homemade pasta sauces, olive oils and balsamic vinegars. They are also licensed so you can buy your favourite Italian wines and spirits in store. If the sight and smells of all this delicious food is too much for you, you can buy a sandwich to keep the hunger pangs at bay until you can reach home and unpack all your goodies.
Outside Camisa
If you've never been to Camisa before, I suggest you pop in next time you're in Soho. You won't regret it, and you'll return from time to time just to recapture the experience and be served Italian produce by Italians.
