Ferrara’s Imported Foods in Mayfield Heights closes after nearly 70 years in business

MAYFIELD HEIGHTS, Ohio (WOIO) – After more than 65 years in business, Ferrara’s Imported Foods in Mayfield Heights has closed its doors for good.

The news is sending shock waves across the heavily Italian-American populated neighborhood.

The family owned and operated market and deli supplied the area with everything from cold cuts and cheeses, olives and grab and go sandwiches, to pizzas, and bread that was a favorite among generations of customers.

After nearly 70 years in business, Ferrara’s Imported Foods has closed.(John Ferrara)

Opened in 1959 by brothers Alfred and Joseph Ferrara, it’s now owned by Alfred’s grandson, John Ferrara, after it was passed down to him by his uncle, Frank (Chick) Ferrara.

Third generation owner, John Ferrara has been working at the market for 30 years, since he was a teenager.

“Going to work was family time,” said Ferrara.

He was the only member of the family still working at the grocery store and deli at the time he made the decision to close.

“I’m thankful for the support of the community all those years. But, it was just time. It was the right time for me,” he said.

They closed the doors permanently as of Tuesday.

However, they’ve yet to determine what will become of the inventory inside and the building itself, which the family owns.

“We’re still sorting it out,” Ferrara said.

He admits there’s still quite a bit to sort out.

Ferrara recently began selling self-stable authentic family recipe sauces like marinara, tomato basil, roasted garlic and pizza sauce. In addition, they’ve been bottling their popular Italian dressing.

He hasn’t yet determined if those fan-favorites will show up on grocery shelves anywhere else in the wake of the grocer’s closure.

Ferrara says since word got out about closing their doors he’s been blown away by the community outpouring.

“It’s very touching to me, and I’m very grateful,” he said.