At Zupan’s Markets, we are passionate about offering our customers the finest gourmet products, and we’re especially excited to feature local Estes Pastificio products as part of our Ciao Italia Month celebration. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or newer to the world of Italian cuisine, Estes brings a refined, artisanal approach to pasta and sauces that will elevate any meal.
Under the direction of Chef McKee, the team has recently taken the exciting step of making their pasta and sauces from scratch on a larger wholesale scale. They’ve set up shop in a shared commissary kitchen within Broder Nord’s NE location, a space that allows them to expand production while ensuring the same exceptional quality that has made their creations beloved by food enthusiasts throughout Portland. This thoughtful evolution of the business not only reflects McKee’s dedication to the craft but also solidifies Estes’ reputation as a cherished local gem.
At Zupan’s Markets, we’re proud to feature Estes’ Mafaldine and Rigatoni pastas, along with their signature Alla Vodka and Pomodoro sauces. Each product is a testament to the craft and care that Chef McKee puts into his work.
- Mafaldine Pasta: This wide, ribbon-like pasta is one of Italy’s lesser-known treasures. With its wavy edges, mafaldine is the perfect choice for capturing rich, creamy sauces. The texture is similar to a lasagna noodle; delicate yet substantial, providing a satisfying bite that complements bold flavors.
- Rigatoni Pasta: A classic pasta with a modern touch, Estes’ rigatoni features large ridges designed to hold sauce in every bite. It’s the perfect vessel for any sauce, from rich, meaty ragu to creamy tomato blends, making it a versatile addition to any Italian-inspired dish.
- Alla Vodka Sauce: This Alla Vodka sauce blends the richness of tomatoes and cream with a touch of vodka. The result is a smooth, velvety sauce that coats pasta with a perfect balance of acidity and sweetness. It’s luxurious, bold, and unforgettable.
- Pomodoro Sauce: Simplicity is key with the Primadoro sauce, where ripe tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil shine. The use of fresh herbs adds a burst of flavor, making this sauce the ideal match for any type of pasta. It’s a celebration of fresh, high-quality ingredients and authentic Italian flavors.
A Legacy of Flavor and Hospitality
Growing up, Chef McKee’s home was always open to friends, family, and even strangers, with the central question always being, “Are you hungry?” His mother’s kitchen was a welcoming space, and the warmth she extended through food left a lasting impression. This spirit of inclusivity and generosity continues to be a cornerstone of Estes today.
McKee’s Italian roots play a major role in his work—his family name, Estes, is an Americanized version of d’Este (shortened at Ellis island), a historically distinguished family hailing from Rome. This connection to Italy is reflected in the food, where every dish is crafted with the utmost care, drawing on traditional techniques and the finest ingredients.
McKee believes that food is a powerful force that brings people together, especially in today’s world where divisiveness often takes center stage. “Getting people to sit down and eat together is probably one of the most powerful things you can do,” he says. With this philosophy at the core of Estes, each meal is an opportunity to connect, celebrate, and experience the joy of eating together.
The Perfect Meal for Every Occasion
As fellow family-owned businesses, Zupan’s and Estes share a passion for bringing people together over great food. Whether you visit Estes for a meal made with care or bring the taste of their kitchen home with you by picking up their pastas and sauces at Zupan’s, they’re honored to be part of your table—nourishing both you and the moments that matter most.
