I would like to let you know that my garden provides enough fruit and vegetables for my family all year round, but sadly that would be a huge lie. I would also like to tell you that I never shop at supermarkets, but that also would be a huge lie. However, it is true that when I want the very best for a meal I shop a little out my way and head to Toscano’s Fruit and Vegetable Shop in Kew.

Toscano’s has been operating since 1950, across three generations, and they offer the very best in service. Their love of food is clear in the genuine passion they exude in person, and in how lovingly they curate their scrumptious items for sale. Toscano’s Family Table is an ode to all this, a collection of both recipes and writings.

Joanne Toscano is not an established writer or a chef, but it’s clear that she’s been surrounded by people sharing food and stories all of her life. Originally it was her publisher who encouraged her to record the family history and collect the recipes together for a possible book. I’m so glad she took this advice.

Beginning with the Toscano family history - which reflects on the amazing blend of cultures that has helped make Melbourne the foodie paradise we know and love - we then turn the page to discover a multitude of recipes, followed by a practical glossary of all vegetables, fruits and more.

[[joanne1]]

Joanne worked on the book for a year, interviewing family members and tracking down old photos, all in-between juggling three children and work at the shops. If you ever do run into her on one of your own shopping adventures then thank her for this beautiful cookbook/historical tome/dictionary, as it’s a wonderful contribution to writing about Melbourne.

After chatting with Joanne about her work I came home and pulled my zucchini flowers off my plant. Tonight I plan to batter these little babies, fry them up and pour a hefty glass of wine. I recommend you see page 30 of this terrific book and follow in my footsteps.

Chris Gordon