Fat Tuesday, or Mardi Gras, is a day of indulgence before the Lenten season begins. This celebration is adapted from many different cultures– Carnivale, Mardi Gras, Shrove Tuesday, and more. One of our favorite ways to celebrate has been adapted from Polish culture because what’s a more glorious indulgence than paczki! These Polish pastries are a deep-fried delight, a symbol of sweet surrender before a period of fasting.
Imagine a rich, slightly sweet yeast dough, fried to golden perfection, and then filled with a variety of delicious fillings. Unlike a regular donut, paczki are made with extra eggs and butter , giving them a richer, denser texture.
Fat Tuesday is always the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday (the beginning of Lent) and National Paczki Day is the Thursday before that. This is because in Poland many people indulge in Paczki on the Thursday before Lent, known as Fat Thursday or Tlusty Czwartek.
Historically, paczki were made to use up all the butter, sugar, eggs, and fruit in the house before Lent. They were a way to celebrate and indulge before the restrictions of the season. Today, they’re a beloved tradition, especially in Polish communities around the world, and increasingly, by anyone who appreciates a truly great pastry.
This year we will be offering both traditional 6 packs and our very own gourmet paczki both in a variety of flavors!
The traditional flavors include
Raspberry
Bavarian Cream
Strawberry
Apricot
Rosehip
Blueberry
Plum
Our gourmet flavors include
Strawberry & Panna
Banana Custard
Cherry Cream Cheese
Apple
Nutella
Boston Creme
Cannoli
You can pre-order your paczki now and be ahead of the game! Everybody who pre-orders is eligible to win a $25 Caputo’s gift card!
Paczki are more than just a sweet treat. They’re a cultural tradition, a symbol of celebration, and a reminder to enjoy the simple pleasures in life. So, this Fat Tuesday, embrace the indulgence, grab a paczek (or two!), and savor the moment.
We will also have traditional Mardis Gras items available like kings cakes, rice, sausage, shrimp, and more!
Love is in the air and that’s because Valentine’s Day is right around the corner! Valentine’s Day has always been a day to show your loved ones that you care… Whether it’s sharing a special meal, going out of your way to send a text or call, or getting a little something– there is plenty you can do to make the ones you love feel extra special on this Valentine’s Day.
The gift of food is always a welcomed gift! Need some inspiration? Here are some gift ideas you can give as a token of your love. The best part, they’re all ready to pick-up at Caputo’s!
Sweets
If your Valentine has a sweet tooth, we have you covered! Sweets, especially chocolate, have become symbols of love and affection. Giving someone a sweet treat is a way to show you care, appreciate them, and want to make them happy. We have tons of Valentine’s themed sweets like:
Cookies
Cakes
Cupcakes
Cookie cakes
Chocolate Covered Long Stem Strawberries
Cakes and pastries aren’t your thing? That’s ok! We have tons of chocolates in pretty boxes that can make for a great gift too.
You can also try out our new Gourmet Paczki! They are back for a limited time and truly a must try. In 7 different flavors, grab a few for your valentine, it’s sure to impress.
Flowers
An easy reminder of your feelings is flowers! With all the different bouquets and arrangements, it is easy to find the one that fits your loved one perfectly. Whether you want to order an arrangement or just pick up a bouquet, we have just what you need!
Flowers are proven to release happy chemicals into the brain because the vibrant colors, the fragrance, and the overall look can bring about a sense of joy. Flowers are a great way to spread love. We have a wide selection of flowers at each store. You can also call Naperville, South Elgin, or Carol Stream to place a custom order! Want to gift flowers, but with a fun twist that they last longer? Pick up a rose globe. In a variety of different colors, round or heart shaped glass, these are awesome! We even have a marble decorated one. They last for a long time, so this happy reminder will be around for a while.
Rosé
Instead of roses, gift rosé! It’s a thoughtful and creative twist on the traditional romantic gesture. Rosé wine, with its delicate pink hue, evokes the same romantic feelings as a bouquet of roses. The color itself is associated with love and affection. A bottle of rosé is meant to be shared, making it a perfect way to connect with your loved one. If rosé isn’t your favorite kind of wine, that’s ok. We have more from all over the world!
Heart Shaped Foods
An easy dinner at home? No problem! We will have heart shaped pizzas and heart shaped sushi platters that are ready for pickup while supplies last! This makes for a fun dinner for you and your valentine or for the whole family!
Surf and Turf
Our Surf and Turf special package is back! This comes with two cold water lobster tails, two beef tenderloin filets, and two strawberry cannoli! This kit is only $39.99 and is everything you need for a romantic dinner for two at home! Plus you can make memories together while preparing the meal.
Choose something that truly reflects your Valentine’s personality and passions. A thoughtful food-related gift is a delicious way to express your love and create lasting memories. So, get creative, get cooking, and get ready to celebrate!
Feeding Families & Their Traditions From Generation to Generation
Football season is coming to a close which means the Big Game is here! While the game itself is the main event, let’s be honest… the food is a close second! Whether you’re hosting a massive tailgate party or a cozy gathering at home, having a lineup of delicious and crowd-pleasing appetizers is crucial. If you’re tasked with bringing an appetizer, then look no further! The classic appetizers are always winners, but we have some recipe ideas for dips that will have your guests cheering for more.
Here are some winning appetizer recipes to elevate your football feast:
Buffalo Chicken Dip
A true game day classic is this spicy and cheesy dip. This dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for game days, parties, or any occasion where you need a flavorful and satisfying snack. With its creamy texture and bold buffalo flavor, it’s no wonder why this dip is a fan favorite. It pairs great with tortilla chips or even celery and carrots. Tip: you can prep it the night before and bake it right before serving
A little Chicago twist on a delicious dip. This is a creamy and flavorful crowd-pleaser perfect for parties or a casual snack. It combines the sweet crunch of corn with a tangy blend of mayonnaise and sour cream. Then add our La Bella Romana Giardiniera Relish for extra flavor and just the amount of heat you want. Serve with some fritos scoops and you’re good to go!
This is a creamy and indulgent appetizer that is also light which makes it great for game day to accompany other heavier foods you might be having! This dip combines the tangy flavor of feta cheese with the hearty texture of artichoke hearts and the brightness of fresh lemons, all whipped together into a smooth and irresistible spread. You can serve it cold or even bake it!
It’s easy to make and perfect for dipping with crackers, pita bread, a toasted baguette, or fresh vegetables.
The Recipe: https://www.shopcaputos.com/recipes/whipped-feta-and-artichoke-dip
Jalapeno Popper Dip
A jalapeno popper is a great appetizer, so we put a little twist on this appetizer and turn it into a creamy, spicy dip. This is a crowd-pleaser, packed with the flavors of classic and beloved appetizer. It’s a simple combination of cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and jalapenos. This dip is perfect for parties and game days, served hot with tortilla chips, crackers, or vegetables.
With these delicious and easy appetizer recipes, you’ll be the MVP of your game day gathering. So,gather your friends and family, and get ready for a winning celebration!
No time to cook? No problem! Stop by our stores for some ready to go eats. We have a nacho kit, 3ft deli subs, pre-made wings from our prepared foods, pizza, desserts, and more. Stop in for whatever you need to make your game day party a success.
Enjoy the game and the food!
Feeding Families & Their Traditions from Generation to Generation
We are so excited to announce this amazing new idea for our culinary loving customers– our first ever La Bella Romana Signature Wine Tasting and Chef Showcase!
Join us for an elevated dining experience that will take place on March 8, 2025 at our Carol Stream location.
Grab your friends, make it a date night, or celebrate International Women’s Day and indulge in a 4 course plated meal perfectly paired with a unique wine chosen to enhance the flavors and aromas of the dish crafted by our very own Chef Douglas Yeomans!
Here’s what to expect:
You will be greeted by our team with a welcome wine and encouraged to enjoy some passed charcuterie appetizers before you will be transported to a world of exquisite flavors and aromas.
Our very own executive chef, Chef Douglas Yeomans, will be preparing a 4 course meal designed to satisfy every taste bud! Each course will be paired with a wine that has been expertly chosen to compliment the dish.
You will hear from our chef about the meal you will enjoy and a wine expert to explain the different wines — the taste, the wine making process, discover the depths of the wines, and why they pair well!
You will leave delighted in a delicious meal, filled with wine (and some wine knowledge), and get a step by step recipe for one of the incredible dishes so that you can recreate it at home! Plus enjoy exclusive discounts on the wines you just tasted.
This is a one of a kind dining experience that will combine exquisite cuisine, expertly selected wines, and fun to create an unforgettable evening.
The Menu:
Salad
Riesling Braised Brulé d Pear and Gorgonzola Foam Salad over Peppery Arugula with Chardonnay Poached Cranberry, Organic BlackBerry, Rose Pickled Red Onion and Candied Spiced Pecan with Wild Blueberry Balsamic Vinaigrette and Balsamic Reduction
Pasta
Pink Peppercorn Seared Scallop over Fettuccini in a Charred Corn Fennel Asiago Cream with Crisp Thick Cut Bacon and Scallion finished with a Parsley Tarragon Oil and Shaved Asiago
Entrée
Toasted Garlic Cabernet Braised Short Rib over Sweet Pea Boursin kissed Risotto with Herb de Provence Charred Green Beans, Rich Cabernet Reduction, Garlic Chive Oil and Crispy Fried Shallots
Dessert
Dark Chocolate Espresso Crème Brûlé with White Chocolate Vanilla Bean Mousse, Raspberry Pinot Grigio Sorbet and Fresh Berry
It is sure to be a wonderful evening filled with great food, great wines, and great company! Need a reason to celebrate, March 8th is International Women’s Day so this dinner is the perfect way to celebrate with the women in your life!
This dinner will be $65 per person. Spots are limited so secure your spot here
Feed Families & Their Traditions from Generation to Generation
In today’s fast-paced world, it is always important to remember to properly fuel and nourish your body. Especially in the winter months when we are trying to strengthen our immune system. Don’t forget to look to Mother Nature’s bounty when trying to do this! In vibrant colors and earthy flavors of whole foods lies a treasure trove of nutrients or superfoods!
What exactly are superfoods?
While there’s no official definition, superfoods are generally considered nutrient-dense foods packed with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and other beneficial compounds. These powerhouses offer a wide range of health benefits. Here are a few of nature’s superstars to consider adding to your diet!
Ginger
Ginger is a powerful root with a long history of use in traditional medicine. Ginger contains compounds like gingerol, which have potent anti-inflammatory effects. It is well known as a help with nausea relief and digestion aid.
Turmeric
Turmeric is a vibrant yellow-orange spice derived from the root of a plant related to ginger. It comes in powder or whole and it is packed with health benefits. It’s main active compound is curcumin which is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. It is a powerful antioxidant which helps to protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. It may also help to improve brain function, lower cholesterol, and improve heart health.
Berries
Blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries are bursting with antioxidants, which help protect your cells from damage. Berries are a good source of both soluble and insoluble fiber which helps to lower cholesterol levels, improve blood sugar control, and promote digestive help.
Dates
Dates are sweet fruits that grow on date palm trees. They come in various varieties, ranging from soft and chewy to dry and hard. Dates are known for their high sugar content which makes it a natural sweetener. In addition, they are high in nutrients like fiber, potassium, and magnesium. They have a numerous amount of other health benefits like can improve bone health, may aid in digestions, and can help heart health.
Avocados
This creamy fruit is packed with healthy monounsaturated fats which are also known as heart healthy fats, which can help lower cholesterol levels. They have high amounts of vitamin C, Vitamin k, potassium, and folate which are great for your immune system, bone health, blood pressure, and cell growth.
While you can’t rely solely on these items, any extra help is welcomed! By incorporating these nutrient-rich superfoods into your daily diet, you can nourish your body, boost your energy levels, and enhance your overall well-being. So, embrace the power of nature!
Feeding Families & Their Traditions From Generation to Generation
Craving a burst of flavor and a boost of nutrients? Discover the vibrant world of freshly squeezed juice, a delicious and healthy way to nourish your body. There is nothing more refreshing or nourishing than a cold glass of freshly squeezed juice!
Have you ever been walking in our produce department and smell the sweet scent of fresh citrus? You’re probably smelling our fresh squeezed juices! Did you know that in each of our stores we have state of the art machinery so that our customers can get fresh squeezed juice daily? Our process is simple, we take fresh produce, juice it and bottle it… that’s it! There is nothing in it, just fresh fruit. Our produce buyers hand pick our produce daily and then our in-store team juices and bottles it right there. Orange juice is always a staple item we have available, but we also offer different juice blends, carrot juice, lemon juice, beet juice, carrot juice, and more depending on seasonality.
There are so many benefits to making the switch to fresh squeezed juices. Here are 3 reasons why fresh squeezed is the way to go
Nutrient Retention
Freshly squeezed juice retains more vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants compared to processed juices, which may have lost some nutritional value during processing, storage, and transportation. The juicing process can release beneficial enzymes that aid in digestion and nutrient absorption, which may be diminished in processed juices.
No added sugar
Our freshly squeezed juice typically contains only the natural sugars present in the fruits and vegetables. There are no extra sugar, syrups, or artificial sweeteners added.
Unmatched Taste
These juices have an incredibly vibrant and flavorful taste. They are squeezed at peak freshness which captures the true essence of the fruit!
These juices are great on their own, but can be incorporated in so many ways. They are great for cocktails or mocktails, marinades, sauces, in baking, in salad dressings, in some beauty routines, and so much more! 1/15 is National Fresh Squeezed Juice Day and 1/19 kicks off National Fresh Squeezed Juice week, so it’s the perfect time to come in and give our line of fresh squeezed juices a try! So, raise a glass of freshly squeezed juice!
Feeding Families and Their Traditions from Generation to Generation
As Christmas approaches, the search for the perfect gift can get overwhelming. We’re here to simplify things by helping you to give the gift of food! Food gifts are not only thoughtful but also practical, offering a delightful treat for the senses. You can give someone some of their favorite items, theme it for a food they love, or make a gourmet basket! Whether you’re shopping for a foodie friend, a relative, or a coworker, you can never go wrong with food!
Here are a few food gift ideas to inspire your holiday shopping, all conveniently available at your one stop shop– Caputo’s!
For the Coffee lover
Coffee is a love language that so many understand, that’s why this is the gift that keeps on giving! A moka coffee maker will transport you right to a little house in Italy. It’s a great gift for a coffee lover because it’s easy to use, offers a unique brewing experience, and the coffee tastes good! You can pair it with some bags of ground coffee so the recipient can test what they like best and some other delicious treats!
Bialetti
Caffe Angelo coffee
LBR chocolate espresso beans
Biscotti
Cappuccino Candies
Coffee Syrups
For the Pasta Lover
Pasta is a universally loved food, and a well-curated box can offer a variety of flavors and textures for the recipient to enjoy. You can theme it so it has all the ingredients for a simple dish or put a little bit of everything for the recipient to try out! Here’s some suggestions
Pasta (different cuts and brands)
Pasta sauce
Passata
Pesto
Parmesan bag
Red pepper flakes
For the Nutella Lover
Nutella: A Love Letter to the Hazelnut Spread
For many, the name “Nutella” evokes a wave of childhood nostalgia. That irresistible jar, the swirling brown and beige pattern, the unmistakable aroma… pure happiness! This is why you can’t go wrong by giving someone a basket full of Nutella items and we have a variety of items for you to choose from! We even have Nutella imported from Europe and you can taste the difference— just look for the Nutella in the glass jar!
Imported nutella
Nutella biscuits
B-ready
Nutella on the go snacks
Hazelnuts
For the Charcuterie Lover
Charcuterie. The word alone conjures images of a bountiful spread, overflowing with savory delights. But for the true enthusiast, it’s more than just a collection of meats and cheeses— it’s an art form and a celebration of foods! We have an extensive cheese department filled with items from all over that are great on a charcuterie board. This a is a great gift so people can try out what just might be their new favorite charcuterie board item!
Salami chubs
Jams
Crackers
Almonds
Jarred olives
Caputo’s gift card to purchase their favorite cheeses!
For someone who loves spice… or is Calabrese
Calabria, a sun-drenched region in southern Italy, is renowned for its cuisine. At the heart of this flavorful province lies a fiery ingredient: Calabrian chili peppers. These small, wrinkled peppers deliver a unique blend of heat and fruity sweetness that sets them apart from other chilis! They are a culinary wonder and they come in so many different ways to enjoy! So if there’s someone who is Calabrese or loves foods with a little spice, then this basket is a good one for them!
Calabrian Chili infused oil
Calabrian chilis
Chili pesto
Calabrian chili orange spread
Spicy salami
For the Wine Lover
For the wine enthusiast in your life, a thoughtfully curated gift basket is a surefire way to show your appreciation. Beyond just a bottle of wine, a gift basket offers a delightful experience that celebrates their passion for all things vino. Including things like crackers, salami, chocolates, and cheese are all things that pair perfectly with wine and can curate a wondering experience for a wine lover!
A white wine
A red wine
crackers/taralli
Baci
Cheese crisps
Salami chubs
For the Bruschetta Lover
This is a unique gift because it’s almost like gifting an experience. In addition to the classic bruschetta topping of tomatoes, we have tons of different bruschetta toppings— olives, artichokes, pepper, and so many more! These along with different flavors of bruschetta crackers is a wonderful gift for a culinary lover
Different bruschetta toppings
Bruschetta crackers
Balsamic glaze
Oil
Oregano
For the Designer Foodie:
Dolce & Gabbana Panettone of course!
Panettone is a staple Christmas gift. It is a sweet bread that Italians enjoy around the holidays. It is a tall, dome-like shaped sweet bread that comes in multiple flavors. The baking process is long and involves curing the dough, then proofing the cake to give it the fluffy texture. There are then extras added into the dry mix like dried candies, raisins, or chocolate chips! This dolce and Gabbana one adds the perfect special touch to this traditional gift. Imported from Sicily, it comes in a beautiful metal tin that has the signature D&G style and has a matching bag that the recipient can keep all year round
No matter who you’re shopping for, the gift of food is always appreciated! If you need help curating the perfect gift for someone, we’re here to help! Just email events@caputomarkets.com and we can put together a custom gift basket for you!
Happy gifting!
Feeding Families and Their Traditions From Generation to Generation
Tis the season for feasting! This year, skip the stress and enjoy a delicious, homemade (in our kitchens) Christmas feast.
We know this time of year may be stressful. Shopping for gifts, making the most of the seasonal Christmas activities, and menu planning for this big feast! Every year, the list adds up and time seems to run short. At Caputo’s, we want to help you where we can, so let us take the meal prep off your hands!
Sharing a meal on Christmas Eve and Christmas is is where some of the fondest memories with your loved ones are formed.We want you to spend time around the table with your loved ones and not in the kitchen, so have a hassle free holiday and let us do the work for you! Our Homemade Holiday Feast is perfect for the holiday season and will allow you to spend quality time with the family. This homemade feast features a main entree, multiple side dishes, condiments, and dessert!
We offer a full feast that will make your holidays much easier! Our homemade feast feeds 10-12 people and is made with all natural foods and no preservatives. You get a completely homemade meal, but without all the work! This meal will help to create some core memories for your family that you will be able to enjoy because you’re not stuck in the kitchen prepping. For the main entree, there is a choice between an oven roasted turkey that comes with our homemade gravy or an oven baked ham that comes with our signature pineapple apricot glaze. Both items are holiday classics so you can’t go wrong with either one of them!
You will get sides–vegetables, potatoes, a salad, and dinner rolls. There are different options to pick from to make your dinner perfect for your guests. To go along with your meal are condiments– you will get two cans of either jelly or cranberry sauce.
Can’t forget dessert! The feast comes with a fresh 8” La Bella Romana apple or pumpkin pie!
The feast is available hot for Christmas Eve or you can request it cold and warm it up to enjoy on Christmas Day!
You get to experience the Christmas magic of a homemade meal and enjoy every stress-free minute of it!
Looking for a truly unique and unforgettable Christmas gift? Consider gifting a signed bottle. Whether it’s a wine, whiskey, or even a beer bottle, a signature from a famous athlete, musician, or wine maker can add significant value and sentimental appeal.
Lucky for you we have a few upcoming opportunities for you to get some bottles signed at a few of our stores!
For the hockey fans and whiskey lovers
Whiskey in the Wild is a unique Canadian whiskey brand that combines the spirit of adventure with a bold and flavorful whiskey. It’s crafted with a blend of 100% corn mash, aged for three years in oak barrels, and infused with extracts of chocolate, vanilla, blackberry, and wild black elderberry. This combination creates a smooth and aromatic whiskey with notes of caramel, mocha, and hazelnut. There is also a flavor that features a twist of orange!
The brand’s packaging is designed to appeal to outdoor enthusiasts, featuring a sleek bottle with a built-in flask.
Overall, Whiskey in the Wild is a refreshing take on flavored whiskey, offering a bold and flavorful experience that’s perfect for those who love to explore and it’s perfect for the hockey lover because Chicago legend and hockey Hall of Famer, Jeremy Roenick is a proud partner of the brand!
Jeremy Roenick will be in stores signing the bottles of his whiskey, taking pictures with fans, and more! What’s even more special? These bottles will be signed with his new Hall of Fame title as he was recently inducted with the 2024 class! This makes a signed JR Whiskey in the Wild bottle an incredibly special gift!
For the rock fans and vodka lovers
On December 21, we will welcome Rick Nielsen of Cheap Trick to our Carol Stream store to sign and promote his ROCK’N Vodka!
ROCK’N Vodka is a unique, award-winning spirit crafted from 100% non-GMO sugarcane.
It’s gluten-free and offers a smooth, subtly sweet taste, perfect for sipping neat or mixing in your favorite cocktails. Co-owned by legendary rock star Rick Nielsen of Cheap Trick, ROCK’N Vodka brings a rock-and-roll edge to the spirit world.
These are just a few of the events we have going on! Check out our event page to stay up to ate with the happenings, see some of our scheduled demos, and more! https://www.shopcaputos.com/events
Feeding Families and Their Traditions From Generation to Generation
Black Friday is just around the corner! This annual shopping extravaganza is a great opportunity to snag deals and we have a few we’re excited to share with you!
Gift Card Sale
Who doesn’t love free money?
On Black Friday, when you buy $100 worth of Caputo’s gift cards, you will get a $20 Caputo’s gift card free! This promo is ONE DAY ONLY on 11/29. You can purchase online or stop in store to snag this one and our other deals!
Purchase gift cards online here or stop in your closest store
This is a perfect deal just in time for Christmas. Gift cards are a great gift to show someone you care and to give the gift of groceries– they are convenient, useful, and thoughtful all at the same time. You can give it on it’s own, attach it to their favorite product, a panettone to stay in the Christmas spirit, or some Caputo’s merch!
Want to put together a Caputo’s gift box to give to a foodie in your life? We can help you create the perfect gift! Email us at events@caputomarkets.com and we can help you out!
20% off Fresh Meats
Yup, you read that right! When you shop in our store from 11/29-12/3, you’ll notice some empty brown paper bags waiting to be filled in our meat department. You will get 20% all the fresh meats that you can fit in the bag.
That means it’s time to stock up and our brand new cryovac line is perfect for this deal! You may have noticed that our packaging has changed a bit in our meat department. We recently started cryovac packing our meat in house as a way to provide our customers with a better quality, more convenient product. Don’t worry– the only thing that has changed is the packaging! The meat still arrives to us fresh from Iowa Premium and our team of butchers cut it fresh and immediately cryovac package it in house at our Carol Stream warehouse.
There are so many benefits to this, here are a few:
Fresh: Cryovac-packed meat is cut and packaged daily by our skilled butchers, ensuring maximum freshness
Enhanced Flavor: The cryovac process allows the meat to undergo a gentle wet aging process, enhancing its tenderness and flavor.
Quality: Cryovac packaging removes air from the package, preventing the meat from drying out or being exposed to oxygen. This helps maintain freshness and flavor for a longer period
Convenient: Cryovac-packed meat is already packaged so that it can be put right in the freezer as is & stored longer without losing quality or flavor because of the oxygen removal seal
Safer & Cleaner: This air tight packaging is a safer, studier package. It is also leak proof!
This sale is the perfect opportunity to try out our new cryovac items and taste the difference this packaging makes! This sale is in-store only from 11/29-12/3!
Want more info on our line, what it is, where the meat comes from, and why it’s so great? Read more here
We hope you all have a Happy and safe Thanksgiving!
Feeding Families and Their Traditions From Generation to Generation
