Towson’s Little Italy

It seems appropriate that pastore means shepherd in Italian. Meandering through Pastore’s Italian Delly & Grocery (8646 Loch Raven Blvd., Towson, 410-825-5316), one is guided through an array of authentic Italian fare. Precisely stacked shelves demonstrate the care that this 30-year-old salumeria (at this location) lavishes on its diminutive enterprise. Seldom seen bucatini (fat spaghetti) and large cans of Saporito plum tomatoes (great for making pizza) are among the myriad imported foods sold at the compact store. You’ll also find items like prosciutto de Parma, cut into irresistible translucent slices; ready to heat-and-eat eggplant Parmesan, dense and cheesy (in a good way); meat lasagna; and prepared soups and sauces. And for the trencherman on the go, there are the stellar, mammoth sandwiches, like the store’s standout sub, an Italian cold cut called The Gonzo ($14.95 for a whole loaf; $7.95 for a half).