Why is this news? Because for the last, oh, 70 years she’s been making mozzarella in the wee hours, every day but Sunday, to sell in her family’s Williamsburg latticini. And on Saturdays, lordy on Saturdays, the roast beef…
I interviewed Georgie as part of an old-school Italian eating tour of Williamsburg I did for Time Out Kids. At the time, she told me she was never going to retire. I’m glad she did (that woman has worked longer than pretty much anyone I’ve ever known), but we miss her already. Two weekends ago Stephen stopped by for his regular ration of roast beef and found the store closed, no notice. We were concerned. And then, this past weekend he tried again, only to find workers dismantling the place. It was as if we’d lost a family member. Tomorrow morning is going to feel all wrong, without the nearly ritualistic trip to Tedone’s Latticini, then Napoli bakery across the street.
I hope Georgie’s sleeping in. She’s earned it.
The Modern Gastronomer has another tribute. I imagine there will be more.