Discovering a Hidden Gem at Mercato Cucina
In the fall of 2021, a stroke of serendipity led me to discover what would become a long-lasting culinary love affair with a place called Mercato Cucina.
I was scrolling through social media when a picture of a sandwich from a local gourmet Italian deli caught my eye. It was more than just a picture—it was a masterpiece.
Mercato Cucina is Known for Their Sandwiches
The cross-section revealed two layers of perfectly fried chicken cutlets, a strip of crispy, thin eggplant, thick chunks of fresh mozzarella, and a delicate shimmer of prosciutto, all nestled in a loaf of Italian bread studded with chunks of salami.
The sandwich was aptly named the “Phil Special,” a creation in honor of one of Mercato Cucina longtime customers. Without hesitation, I called the number on the screen and ordered two.
I grabbed my keys, locked my computer, and headed straight to Mercato Cucina, a little gem tucked away on New York Avenue, about 400 yards north of the Huntington LIRR station.
Chef David Buico
Upon arrival, I met Chef David Buico, the mastermind behind this Italian haven.
Chef David isn’t just a cook; he’s a culinary artist with a passion that’s palpable in every bite. His résumé reads like a who’s who of New York City’s finest kitchens.
A Brooklyn native, David’s love for food was cultivated in the kitchens of his grandmother and father. His professional journey includes Executive Chef at Rock Center Café, a stint at Blue Water Grill in Union Square—where he developed a deep appreciation for locally grown, organic produce—and serving as the Executive Chef at Bocca in Gramercy, hailed as NYC’s best Italian Roman restaurant.
Mercato Cucina Offers More Than Sandwiches
Since that first bite, my relationship with Mercato Cucina has blossomed. I’ve indulged in their gigantic Italian sandwiches, taken part in their weekend boating packages, and experienced their high-end catering.
I’ve even attended weeknight cooking classes and private dining experiences, both in my home and at the store. Chef David has catered seminars I’ve hosted for my business, and I’ve learned to make Sunday sauce and fresh mozzarella at one of his classes.
“Sandwich of the Month”
What really sets Mercato Cucina apart is the community Chef David has cultivated. Regulars at the deli, who proudly call it “the best they’ve ever had,” are honored with a coveted “Sandwich of the Month.” Each honoree collaborates with Chef David to create a unique sandwich, featured for the entire month.
I had the privilege of collaborating on “The Big Show” in April 2022, a monstrous creation with chicken cutlets, broccoli rabe, roasted peppers, and Calabrian chili-infused burrata, all on that incredible salami-studded bread. It was a bucket-list moment I’ll never forget—like an edible trophy forever etched in my heart, mind, and belly.
Mercato Cucina Gives Back
Beyond the kitchen, Chef David’s generosity knows no bounds. In the summer of 2023, he prepared a seven-course private dining experience for the Dead Chef’s Society, raising money for Pop Earth, a charity founded by his wife, Debbie, that supports health and wellness for people of all abilities, particularly autistic children.
His commitment to philanthropy is unwavering—he often cooks for charitable events, donating his time, talent, and resources.
But perhaps the most poignant example of Chef David’s heart came a couple of years ago. We were going through some personal health issues.
My mom stopped by to update us. My sister was battling breast cancer, and one evening, after closing his shop, Chef David drove to her house and dropped off two large bags of food—chicken parmigiana, stuffed shells, Italian salads, and fresh bread—along with a note that read, “In Italy, when life throws you a curve ball, you eat!”
My mom, with tears in her eyes, asked if I knew about this. I didn’t. Chef David didn’t even know my brother-in-law was related to me. He was simply responding to a family in crisis, as he would for any of his regular patrons.
That’s Chef David Buico in a nutshell—a man whose passion for food is matched only by the size of his heart, and a place where your appetite and soul are equally satisfied.
Conclusion
Make sure to give this local gem a visit to try their famous sandwiches…You will NOT be disappointed! For more information about Mercato Cucina, click HERE!
For more articles by “The Glutton’s Guide,” click HERE!
For more articles about EATS on Long Island, click HERE!
Disclosure: Mr. Madden paid for his own reviewed meal and no other compensation was received. The reviewed restaurant did not receive an advance copy of the review and receives no editorial control of the copy.
