Fresh, Clean, and Made with Care

Hi, I’m Nicole Collier, owner of Paesanos Market and the youngest daughter of the founder of Paesanos Pizzeria in New York. My journey with food and culture began as a child, standing beside my father in his restaurant. It was there I learned how to knead fresh pizza dough, simmer homemade pasta sauce, serve our guests with warmth, and most importantly embrace the heart of my Italian heritage.

My roots trace back to Palermo, Sicily, where my grandfather emigrated from. His name is proudly inscribed on the wall of immigration at Ellis Island, and it’s his story that continues to inspire my passion for Italian culture. I went on to study the Italian language and became the president of the Italian Club at my university, leading over 1,500 members in cultural awareness, charitable events, and volunteer efforts especially at local children’s hospitals. My dedication earned me a full scholarship to study abroad in Italy, where I spent the summer immersed in every corner of the country, from the northern countryside to the southern coast. I brought back with me not just recipes and memories, but a deeper purpose: to share and preserve the beauty of Italian life.

Today, through Paesanos Market, I offer private event catering, a mobile charcuterie cart, and in-home or delivered meal planning and prep. Everything I create reflects the traditional, Mediterranean way of living garden to table, simple and soulful, made with love and intention. The ingredients I use are either freshly grown or imported from Italy, and my goal is always to deliver more than just a meal its a taste of family, history, and heart.

My website also features a blog filled with weekly recipes, stories, and insights into Italian culture, along with links to events and organizations that support and celebrate the Italian-American community. Paesanos Market is more than a business it’s my way of keeping our culture alive and sharing the spirit of Italy with others, one dish at a time.