Rose Marie Trapani

From the moment she stepped through the door, her Italian spirit infused the atmosphere with warmth and familiarity. With Italian music playing, our shared love for the country sparked laughter, tears, and a sense of longing for the place we both hold dear. Rose Marie's presence exudes warmth and familiarity, making you feel like you’re among family. It's no wonder her chosen word is 'Mom' – her nurturing spirit invites you to pull up a chair, unwind, and share in the comfort of her company. 

What really matters to you?

The most important thing to me is my family.

What brings you happiness?

Happiness is spending time with my family. Cooking and eating different ethnic meals with my family and friends. I also enjoy gardening, drawing and painting. While walking around my beautiful property I have a sense of peace. I love reading and watching movies in several languages.

What are some of the biggest challenges you have faced?

Leaving my small village in Sicily to come live in New York City and having to learn the English language and American culture. One of the biggest and most rewarding challenges for me was being a caregiver for my mother during the last years of her life.

What would you change if you could?

I would have accepted the scholarship to study art.

What single word do you identify with?

Mom.

MOM

Amor di madre, amore senza limiti.

A mother’s love has no limits.

Rose Marie was photographed on August 24, 2023.

Rose Marie was born in Campofiorito , Sicily, a small village in the Province of Palermo. Her family immigrated to NYC when she was 9 years old, and food has always been an integral part of her life. Her mother was an excellent cook, two of her brothers own restaurants and one of her brothers owned an Italian food distribution business. “I started cooking at an early age helping my mother in the kitchen. I’m one of 9 children, so our kitchen was always busy,” says Rose Marie.

Anyone who sits down at Rose Marie’s table or to a plate of her food becomes part of that big Italian family.

In 2000, Rose Marie and her husband Joe moved to Sharon Springs, NY, where they grow most of their own food in a backyard organic garden. What she doesn’t grow and preserve herself, she buys from local farmers.

Thousands of people follow her on Facebook and Instagram, amazed at everything that comes out of Rose’s kitchen. In sharing this way, the little kitchen feeds thousands of hungry souls. 

You can see her mouthwatering recipes on Facebook: Rose Marie Trapani and on Instagram: @oursiciliantable.