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What Cheese Boutique owner Afrim Pristine always has in his grocery cart is a testament to his family’s diverse culinary history, a love for high-quality ingredients and a passion for exploring new flavors. This article delves into Pristine’s food journey, his shopping habits, and the staple items that always make it into his grocery cart.
Cheese Boutique: A Toronto Staple
Cheese Boutique, a family-run business, was established by Afrim Pristine’s grandparents in the Bloor West Village of Toronto in 1970. Today, the third-generation owner, Pristine, manages an enviable collection of over 500 types of cheese, including around 150 from across Canada. The cheese counter at Cheese Boutique is a reflection of Toronto itself, representing cheeses from all over the world.
The Pristine Diet: A Melting Pot of Cultures
Afrim Pristine’s diet is greatly influenced by his family’s roots. His Albanian father who grew up in Turkey and his mother from Naples, Italy, introduced him to a variety of southern Italian food. These tastes and flavors are now being passed on to his son, Leonardo. At home, Pristine and his wife cook in the Italian tradition, using high-quality olive oil, cheeses like gouda, buffalo mozzarella, and in-season vegetables.
Food Adventures: Turkey and Beyond
In September, Pristine and his family visited Turkey to expose his son to new tastes and to learn more about his family’s cooking traditions. Pristine shopped at Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar for fresh nuts and spices, purchased olive oil from one of the oldest factories in the world, and learned to make traditional Turkish dishes. This trip was an emotional journey for him, as he got to introduce his wife and son to the food he grew up with.
Grocery Shopping Habits
Pristine’s shopping habits range from saving on staples at his local No Frills to splurging on Italian wines, liquors, and fresh pasta at Eataly. Despite a busy work schedule filled with events, Pristine tries to avoid takeout and late-night binge eating. He has recently adapted his eating habits to have dinner with his wife and son, enjoying a healthy homemade meal.
Staples in Pristine’s Grocery Cart
Afrim Pristine’s grocery cart always has a few staple items. Chili miso from Okazu, a Toronto-based company, for a touch of Asian-inspired flavors. Frozen summer sweet peas from Green Giant, which he prepares using a recipe passed down from his mother. Leonardi’s white balsamic vinegar for salad dressings, and cranberry cashew crisps from Kii Naturals, another Toronto-based company, as an accompaniment for cheese.
