Real Italian home cooking

Staffer June Weiner Wulff went to one of my favorite spots, Nappi Meats & Groceries in Medford (781-391-7900), looking for some Italian specialties. Here's what happened:

"I went to order take-out meals for four. Co-owner Anna Nappi made a few suggestions, but the best one was for the four of us to show up at the shop after they closed so they could cook for us. When Anna told her husband we were coming, Joe Nappi raised his arms and said they'd take care of everything. I couldn't believe it; this was only the second time I had shopped there.

"When we arrived, our table was ready and a procession of plates began: prosciutto and bocconcini on foccacia, along with marinated lamp chops and stuffed clams.

"By the second or third course, Joe was hugging us, showing us family photos, and making us laugh.

"We ate like kings. Choosing a favorite was tough -- did the lamp chops top the gnocchi, or was the best dish the grilled eggplant or stuffed pork loin?

"Four hours later, with two bags of leftovers in our hands, I asked Joe how often he and Anna do these small dinner parties. He shrugged his shoulders, smiled, and said, 'Whenever anyone wants.' "