Pastore’s Inc.

Daily Record Staff//November 21, 2024//

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Pastore’s Inc., a family-owned business rooted in Baltimore, has a rich history dating back to 1898 when Vincenzo & Cira Garofalo emigrated from Palermo, Sicily, and launched a grocery/produce store. In 1935, the business passed to Frank & Mary Pastore, who nurtured its growth. By 1960, Michael and Vince Pastore, alongside their sister Shirley, managed operations. Michael discovered an opportunity in supplying restaurants and delis and expanded accordingly.

In 1982, Michael bought the Sun of Italy label, transforming a modest tomato product line into over 100 items. By 1989, the business relocated to Highlandtown. Michael Frank Pastore later took over daily operations, and in 1998, Mike Pastore joined as the fifth generation.

Since its inception, the Pastore family prided itself on offering top-quality Italian food products, with a commitment that spanned over a century. This tradition of excellence helped cement Pastore’s legacy in the food industry, shaping it into a trusted name.

Michael Pastore said the brand consistently aimed to deliver “only the very fi nest quality” to its customers. The emphasis on family values and community-oriented service has been pivotal in the company’s enduring success.

This article was assisted by an AI engine and reviewed, fact-checked and edited by our editorial staff.

This profile is part of The Daily Record's In the Lead: Best Family-Owned Businesses in Maryland list for 2024. Information used in this profile was sourced from the honoree. See the full list at thedailyrecord.com.