Former Santa Cruzans Catherine and Brian Faris fell in love with southern Italy many years ago. Many of us have done the same. But few of us have followed through and actually pulled up stakes, moved to Puglia, purchased an olive orchard, and proceeded to create a line of organic olive oils that give new meaning to the phrase “extra virgin.”
Pascarosa is the brand name of the latest Faris adventure. Named for a small village adjacent to the estate olive orchard, the olive oils—two styles, one lighter and 100% certified organic, the other richer, more complex, and made from olives grown under organic conditions—they are irresistibly delicious.
A lively tasting party two weeks ago at Soif Wine Bar gave locals a chance to see Catherine and Brian after many years absence, and also to sample the new oils accompanied by a few choice Italian wines stocked by Soif. The results were many sales and lots of oleoginous gossip. The attractively packaged oils in 16 oz. cans come with ingenious fastenings and a $19 – $25 pricetag. Our house salads love Pascarosa—currently available at Soif.
I for one still miss Catherine’s restaurant in Capitola years ago Primitzia, a very sophisticated (culinary speaking) charming establishment with excellent food and service, very well run when she was there, and a menu that was reminisant of Italy or perhaps New York to me, certainly at a much higher level than its local contemporaries. I’m sure her oil’s are superb too, can’t wait to try them.
You’re not alone in having longing about the early heyday of dining in Santa Cruz. Primizia was one of the trend-setters…..I sure hope this dry spell eases up SOON!
You’ll love the oils.
Best
Christina
A really good fish restaurant would be a welcome addition, especially when you consider our location. A small seasonal menu, sparkling fresh, with a skilled and knowledgable chef who really cares. We ate an a number of them on the Mediterranean Coast and kept asking ourselves, why not here?