Our grocery shopping in Naples often took John and me to the Pignasecca Market,
where we were often charmed by the look and details of the market stalls,
and the abundance of meat and vegetables.
We quickly chose the lady in black on the right as our source for tomatoes and fruit. In this way we became that most Italian thing: her loyal customers.
Our morning's shopping in hand we passed another visually splendid vendor
and his army of acciughe (anchovies) -- any one of which could add depth to someone's lunch or dinner.
We frequented two restaurants in the market. Trattoria Pignasecca sited on a hill in the Spanish quarter was little more than a plastic tent attached to a kitchen.
The slope of the hill made sitting awkward, but the food was great. Our friend Theresa and I tucked into our pastas.
She led us, another day, to the nearby Trattoria del Sole: a larger venue with an even better menu.
As we entered someone took away this stunning fish fry.
For my starter I ordered these heaven-sent stewed peppers.
and their Pasta Siciliana: roasted eggplant and tomatoes with basil and penne rigate pasta. A keeper!
John had a generous shellfish spaghetti.
We watched a waiter pour a mezzo litro (half litre) carafe of house white wine from a plastic jug.
Two shop-proud butchers posed for John.
Our favourite vendor also posed for him. She told us she hoped we would return soon. May her words come true!
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