Giovanni Occhipinti, Maurizio’s son, represents the fifth generation of a family that has always been dedicated to the fruit and vegetable business. It was Giovanni’s great-grandfather who created the Ortobello a trademark in Turin, having learned the ropes of the trade from his father, Giovanni’s great-great grandfather who sold fruit from a cart in Catania, in Sicily, for a living. The family history is told in the black and white photos hanging in the shop amid objects, ornaments, and all the colours of the seasonal fruit and vegetables from select producers all over Italy. One example of the latter is the melons of Lorenzini, growers who have branded each single fruit with a trademark to make it immediately traceable. A lot of local produce – from Pecetto cherries to porcini mushrooms, depending on the season – is on display, as are the finest products from every corner of the world. There is also a selection of superior quality grocery items. At Christmas the shop is the place to go for exotic fruit, so popular on many tables during the festive season.
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