Benvenuto!
At Papa's, we believe that every visit to our market is more than just a shopping trip—it's an experience steeped in tradition, flavor, and the warmth of community. For over nine decades, we've proudly served as a cornerstone of Little Italy, sharing our passion for authentic Italian cuisine with generations of loyal customers.
As you step into our virtual marketplace, allow us to extend a heartfelt welcome and invite you to explore the vibrant world of Papa's Food Market. From our fresh meat deliveries made several times a week to our homemade tomato pie baked each morning, every aspect of our market reflects our unwavering commitment to quality and authenticity.
Step into a world of culinary delight at Papa's Food Market, where behind the deli counter awaits an array of housemade specialties to Entice your taste buds. From longhots to marinated mushrooms, from broccoli rabe to macaroni salad, our side dishes are crafted with care and available in sizes of 1/2 pints, pints, and quart containers, priced by weight.
93 Years of Passion for Italian Food
Papa's Market has a rich history steeped in tradition, evolving under the stewardship of new owners while staying true to its roots. Originally founded by Pietro Papa, affectionately known as "Peter Pop," the market has been a cornerstone of the Little Italy neighborhood for 93 years. Pietro Papa's youngest son, Ralph Papa, and his wife Rosemarie, took over the market after his passing, faithfully carrying on the family legacy until Rosemarie sought new ownership in 2017. Following Rosemarie's decision, In May 2019, the property and business found new owners in Luis Pelaez, stepson of Humberto Gomez, who owns the nearby El Toro Cantina restaurant. Under Pelaez's management, the market has undergone subtle and not-so-subtle changes, including thorough cleaning, rearranged shelves, and a refreshed look that customers describe as brighter.
While maintaining the market's Italian heritage, Pelaez has introduced improvements such as a new condiment bar and increased fresh meat deliveries. Homemade tomato pies and daily bread deliveries from Aversa Italian Bakery ensure that the market continues to offer authentic flavors.
Despite initial concerns from longtime customers, Pelaez reassured them of the market's commitment to its Italian identity, with no intention of changing the name or focus. With his background in Italian culinary arts, Pealez has infused the market with new energy while preserving beloved staples like homemade meatballs, veal spezzato, and tiramisu.
Customers can still find familiar faces among the staff, including Arturo Castro, who has been with the market for 15+ years. The market continues to offer homemade sausages, wedding soup, and freshly made cannoli, alongside new additions like to-go subs and meatball sandwiches.
Pelaez's vision for Papa's Market is simple: to continue serving the community with care and dedication. With a strong customer base and a commitment to tradition,
Papa's Market looks forward to many more years of providing quality Italian fare to its loyal patrons.
In-Store Exclusive:
Discover Our Premium Meat and Cheese SEleCtions
Homemade Italian Sausage
Fresh Meats & Poultry
Indulge in a Premium Meat Selection
Our in-house butcher ensures fresh, custom-cut meats, delivered twice a week. Explore a variety of options, from succulent veal cuts to flavorful pork selections and a range of beef choices, including prime rib and New York steak. Elevate your culinary creations with our top-quality meats.
Don't miss out on our house-made Italian sausage, available in hot, sweet, liver, and veal varieties, adding a delicious twist to your dishes.
Imported & Domestic Cheeses
Imported Parmigiano
Reggiano
Explore Our Diverse Cheese Selection
From classic favorites like Cooper and American to exquisite imports like Manchego and Parmigiano, our selection caters to every palate. Indulge in the rich flavors of Provolone, Fontina, Blue Cheese, and more, sourced domestically and internationally. Elevate your culinary creations with our diverse array of cheeses.
Savor the Finest Flavors
Immerse yourself in a culinary haven with our exclusive selection of fresh daily breads from Aversa Italian Bakery in Turnersville, New Jersey. Complement your meals with the freshest produce, featuring garlic, chestnuts, long hots, tomatoes, potatoes, parsley, asparagus, mushrooms, celery, carrots, lemons, limes, red and yellow onions, and crisp lettuce and cabbage. Elevate your kitchen with the finest ingredients for a delicious dining experience.
Our Prices and Policies: Prices vary per pound and are subject to change based on quantity ordered.
To accommodate this, our meat, cheese, to-go meals, subs and produce items are available for pick up, with payment due at the time of pick up. We accept cash and debit/credit cards only.
Please call ahead to ensure availability and schedule your pick up within your preferred time frame during our business hours.
Customer Favorites:
Discover Our Top-Two
Must-Try Selections
Papa's Famous
Tomato Pie
Papa's Famous
House-made Meatballs
Freshly made every morning at Papa's Food Market.
Enjoy it by the piece, full pan, or half tray, with optional toppings like mozzarella cheese and pepperoni.
Taste the authentic flavors of Italy in every bite!
Available in your preferred size and style! Our delectable meatballs come in both large and small sizes, priced by the pound and weighed at the time of purchase.
For added convenience, we offer them frozen or as part of our catering options, where they're hand-rolled and topped with our signature meat sauce.
Experience the timeless taste that has delighted customers for generations.
Tomato Pie Slice $1.25
Pepperoni/Cheese Slice $1.99
Full Pan: 24 Slices $30.00
Half Pan: 12 Slices $15.00
Full Pan +Mozzarella Cheese $17.99
Half Pan +Mozzarella Cheese $34.99
Big Meatballs $5.99/ lb
Small Meatballs $6.49/ lb
Catering Hot Entrees
Full Pan + Meat Sauce $89.99
Half Pan + Meat Sauce $49.99
Made
-to-
Order
Deli Sandwiches Freshly Crafted Just
for You!
Or
Visit us
1910 West 6th Street Wilmington, DE 19805
To-Go Meals at Papa's Food Market
Savor the authentic flavors of Italy with our enticing options, featuring house-made Eggplant Parmesan, Chicken Parmesan, and both Meat and Meatless Lasagna.
Experience the comfort of homemade goodness, prepared fresh at the beginning of the week and available for both in-store shopping and hassle-free pick-up with just one call. Satisfy your cravings with the convenience of delicious, ready-to-enjoy meals at Papa's.
Meat Lasagna - Bake at 350°F for 40-45 minutes
Chicken & Eggplant Parmigiana - Bake at 350°F for 30-35 minutes
A Glimpse into
Our
Market
Stay connected with Papa's Food Market for the latest updates, mouthwatering visuals, and exclusive offers. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram!
Also, explore our catering menu for a feast that brings the flavors of Italy to your special occasions.
Buon appetito!
