“Everyone can cook!” insists GP Lane, the proprietor of About Food (53975 Main Road, Southold, 631-876-5757).
The Brooklyn-born shop owner is many things — an educator, harmonica player, author and, as he puts it, provider of “artful provisions and tasteful advice.” Since 2016, Lane has curated an eclectic array of gourmet food products, antique and new dinnerware and sundry kitchen items in his compact shop in Southold.
His mission is to “provide the home cook with quality local, national and international food products in order to encourage fine dining at home,” he says. Customer service is Lane’s strong point — you can tell he enjoys meeting customers and talking food. Any cook with a question or two has come to the right place.
Zia Pia Gluten-Free Pasta, $12
This Italian company makes “the finest gluten-free pasta I have found,” says Lane. “Unlike regular pasta, gluten-free pasta wants a gentle boil.” About Food carries several pasta shapes, including penne, spaghetti, fettuccine, rigatoni and fusilli.
J. Krupnick Studio Arts Ceramic Oil Dispenser, $60
Handmade in shades of aqua and deep blue, J. Krupnick’s stylish cruets will look great on your table. “No two are ever alike and each one is a work of art,” says Lane.
Zibari Cornichons, $20
A product of Spain, Lane notes that these are “perfect for your charcuterie board; they are crisp and bright with a classic flavor.”
Push/Pull Kitchen Tool, $18
Made by local craftsman Lenny Kelleher, these wooden kitchen tools serve as protection when pushing and pulling racks in a hot oven, and are made from woods like poplar, soft pine, walnut and cherry.
Farmers Kitchen Pickled Vegetables, $13; Hot Sauce, $11
Made locally by Emilie Zaweski of Jamesport, these bright jars of pickled beets, carrots and asparagus are a handy staple for your pantry. The hot sauce is “perfectly blended and not too hot,” notes Lane.
Little Apple Treats Apple Cider Caramels with Rose Petals and Cocoa Nibs, $11
Crafted by a Sonoma County company that makes vinegars and other treats from their own apples. This candy is so good, you may not be the first to eat the whole bag in one sitting!
Matiz Tinned Fish, $11
Packed in Galicia, Spain, in traditional style with only Spanish olive oil and salt, here’s your chance to try the tinned fish trend. About Food carries wild-caught mackerel, octopus, wild cod and sardines for a quick appetizer, salad or sandwich.
