Photograph by George Sakkestad
Got a big taste for wine? Jacques Leconte, manager of Café Marcella's Market, recommends a jeroboam of a fine import.
By Shari Kaplan
Marcella's Market is a testament to the power of popular request.
The small, tidy wine shop opened earlier this month next to its namesake, Café Marcella. Because customers consistently inquired about where they could obtain bottles of the European-style bistro's extensive collection of fine wines, owners Alain Staebler and Vince Torre decided to create Marcella's Market as an additional venue.
"We're not a mainstream wine place. We specialize in the more exciting varieties, since we can't compete with supermarkets," Staebler says. "We like wine--wine should be fun, not complicated. We want our clientele to feel as good about it as we do."
Those varieties number around 300, according to market manager Jacques Leconte. The shop works with a highly discriminating wine importer and distributor who supplies them with specialty wines from all over France, as well as other countries. A large line of California wines is also available. Any wines customers enjoy in the restaurant are available in the market.
"Customers love the fact that this is not a liquor store. It's a wine shop with the classy look of what wine represents behind it," Staebler adds.
Complementing the potent potables are a growing variety of edibles, many of which are imported. Dijon mustards, sun-dried tomatoes, salad dressings, olives, breads and other condiments are joined by ciders, espresso beans, chocolates and fruit conserves.
Café Marcella favorites such as pâtés, cheeses and various pasta sauces--including a secret, handed-down recipe from chef Marcella Spinazzi's grandmother--are available in the refrigerated deli case. Staebler says the market will soon be adding even more food items to its product line.
Marcella's Market, next to Café Marcella, 368 Village Lane, Los Gatos. Hours: Tue.-Sat., 10:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m., closed Sunday and Monday. 399-7735.
This article appeared in the Saratoga News, March 27, 1996.
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