(616) 842-0880
114 Washington St., Grand Haven, MI 49417
www.fortinos-gourmet.com
If you’re not Italian, even if you’ve never been to Italy, you’ll love Fortino’s in downtown Grand Haven. This classic little food store offers authentic old world shopping just like they do back in the old country. For four generations Margaret Michlitsch and her family have been serving up a little bit of Italy and a lot of personality.
Margaret’s Grandfather opened this little store in 1911, and they’ve been providing the community with old world foods and candies ever since. As Margaret puts it, this place isn’t pretend old, it’s real old. It’s in the walls, in the air and in the atmosphere. Not much changes there from year to year because the customers like it that way.
While we were there, it was a real treat and absolute pleasure to meet and spend a little Italian time with Margaret’s lovely Aunt Mary Pontarelli. At the young and vibrant age of ninety-four, she still works at the store and is proof positive that the old-world way is the best way.
Next time you’re in Grand Haven, check out Fortino’s Italian Family Market. I guarantee when you leave, you’ll be a lot happier and a little more Italian than when you came in.