To the Rescue…Central Square Restaurants Aid Women after YWCA Fire

LaGroceria and several other restaurants in Central Square, Cambridge recently came to the rescue of more than 100 residents of the YWCA who were sent to the streets when fire broke out in the facility destroying the kitchen and all the food.

LaGroceria owner Franco Mastromauro coordinated the relief effort of delivering hot and fresh food to the YWCA. LaGroceria delivered pasta as well as all the dishes and utensils. Middle East provided salads and appetizers; Indian Pavilion provided baked chicken; HiFi Pizza offered up pizzas and Picante gave burritos. Harvest Grocery Store provided the beverages and Dunkin Donuts sent over donuts and coffee.

YWCA Director Julia Perez credits the restaurants for feeding the women, who otherwise would have gone hungry, on such short notice.

"We do whatever we can to help our neighbors," explained Mastromauro.

Fortunately, the residents’ sleeping area was not affected by the fire.

Perez noted, "The restaurants outdid themselves. Not only were the women well-fed, but it was probably the best food they ever had."

LaGroceria is "Love on a plate…a very large plate."
Established in 1971 by Franco Mastromauro and his two sons, Frank and Charles, as a small breakfast and sandwich shop, LaGroceria has grown to become a nationally recognized Mediterranean restaurant rated as "Overall Best Restaurant" by Gourmet Magazine, Zagat and Fodors. LaGroceria is one of the first of many independently owned and authentic ethnic restaurants that make Central Square a vibrant and unique community and a destination for diners seeking exceptional food and family hospitality.

LaGroceria offers an extensive selection of new recipes that are certain to please every palate. From "Live’N Kickin Lobsters" to "Sogliola Margherita" (pan fried fresh filet of lemon sole sautéed in lemon caper sauce with artichoke hearts); "Risotto Con Capesante" (Italian Arborio rice with pan seared fresh scallops, mussels, shitake mushrooms, vegetables); "Bistecca di Manzo ai Ferri" (grilled Delmonico rib-eye steak) and such regional fare as Paella and Bouillabaisse and savory delicate sauces, the Mastromauro family’s passion for excellence is evident in every bite.

Offering exceptional cuisine and family hospitality, LaGroceria restaurant offers authentic, freshly prepared home-style in a casual, yet elegant atmosphere.
In addition to an extensive lunch and dinner menu, corporate and special event catering is available. LaGroceria is located at 853 Main Street in Cambridge. For more information, contact (617) 497-4214 or visit www.lagroceria.org.