Had this been fictionalized, and if it had taken place in my house in the 1970s,my mother and especially my grandmother, knowing I was creatively inclined, would have suggested that I help Mrs. Coluccio create a cookbook.

It would have made a good story back in the day in Brooklyn and would have been proposed to me something like:
“Daniel, now that you’re in art school, why don’t you help Mrs. Coluccio’s daughter make a book? You’d make her family so happy.”

Although Cathy and I grew up just blocks apart, we had never met until 2019. She was raised by a mother who, like mine, taught her the value of a humble, daily way of life. Little did either of us know then the impact our respective families’ heritage would have on us.

Little by little, the Coluccio family opened their doors to many local Italian first- and second-generation immigrant families. It was one of many Italian shops, but it became a trusted institution in our community for over sixty years, likely exceeding all their expectations.

Today, Coluccio & Sons is a success story. Cathy and her brothers continue the work of their parents, embodying the strength of the wood that bound the bushels of the finest olives on which their shop was founded.

My mom could often be found there, stocking up on her cheeses and pasta, picking up her weekly copy of The Italian Tribune, and collecting the annual New Year pocket calendars she coveted—grabbing enough to supply our family and friends.

Cathy’s parents would have marveled at how their little shop has become a cornerstone of the culinary community we all benefit from—one that I documented in my cooking memoir. It wasn’t until my book was published that Cathy and I spoke about a dream she had of writing a book of her own.

And so, the story goes…
Cathy Coluccio Fazzolari’s Italian Daughters Cookbook is now beautifully displayed on bookshelves everywhere! I’m thankful to have had this opportunity—one I could have only imagined.