Local Country Market
LaRocca's Country Market in Stamford, CT, has been a beloved local staple for 100 years. The market began as a small, family-owned grocery store with a simple mission: to provide fresh, high-quality products to the Stamford community. Over the years, LaRocca’s has grown and evolved, but it has always remained true to its roots—offering personalized service, a commitment to quality, and a selection of fresh, locally sourced goods. Known for its friendly atmosphere and strong community ties, LaRocca’s is not just a grocery store, but a gathering place where neighbors connect and families find the best ingredients for their meals. From its award-winning deli and butcher to its wide range of specialty products, LaRocca's Country Market continues to be a cherished family-owned business that locals trust and love.
History
LaRocca’s Country Market has a long history rooted in community and family. Founded in 1925 by the Scofield family, the market was created to serve the neighborhood, providing a convenient shopping option for locals who found downtown too far to travel. Over the years, the market changed ownership, first to the Mulroney family, who ran it until 1979, then to Lee’s from 1979 to 1981, and finally to Giovanni’s, who continued to serve the area until 2010. In 2010, Tommy LaRocca, the son of a former owner, purchased the store and began an ambitious two-year renovation to modernize it while keeping its community roots intact. In 2012, he renamed the store LaRocca’s Country Market, making it a modern destination for both old and new customers. Tommy’s most recent addition in 2018 was a Wine Shop, showcasing a handpicked selection of small-production wines, further expanding the market’s offerings and enhancing its reputation as a community cornerstone.
Neighborhood
LaRocca’s Country Market, nestled in the heart of North Stamford, has been a cornerstone of the community for over a century. Located just north of the Merritt Parkway in a picturesque, wooded area known for its historic homes, the market has been a family-run business that locals have come to depend on. At LaRocca’s, giving back to our community is at the heart of everything we do. Whether it’s supporting Stamford’s only food bank, the New Covenant Center, or sponsoring a Little League baseball team, we make community support a top priority. We are also passionate about offering the best local products, including Wave Hill Bread from Wilton, Soffer Farm Eggs from Branford, and Whistlestop Pies from Ridgefield, among many others. Our produce is carefully sourced, with a focus on local first, domestic second, and imported only when necessary due to seasonality or weather. At LaRocca’s, supporting local and serving our community isn't just part of our business—it’s who we are.
Who Owns it Now?/ Meet the Owner
In 1983, Tommaso LaRocca Sr. came to America to pursue his dream and began working in the market. He became the owner, a role he held until his retirement in 2020. His son, Tommy LaRocca, grew up in the market, working alongside his father almost every day since he was 7. In 2010, after dedicating much of his life to the business, Tommy purchased the market with a vision to take it beyond what it had been. He believed the store could offer more to the community, so he began a two-year expansion. Throughout the entire remodel, Tommy kept the doors open, ensuring the market remained a staple for the neighborhood. He vividly remembers the first day he walked into the store with his father, and that memory shaped his drive for excellence and development. In 2012, after the expansion, the market was reintroduced as LaRocca’s Country Market, showcasing a brand-new 40-foot full-service deli and meat counter, an expanded produce aisle, a prepared food island, and a state-of-the-art kitchen. Tommy’s dedication to the community and his commitment to creating something special for North Stamford continued to guide the market’s growth. In 2018, he added a Wine Shop featuring small-production wines, further expanding the market’s offerings. Today, LaRocca’s is the last family-run grocery store in Stamford, standing as a testament to Tommy’s vision, hard work, and passion for serving his community.
Employees
At LaRocca’s, our employees aren’t just staff—they’re family. Each team member takes immense pride in their work, treating the store like it’s their own. Whether they’re stocking shelves, preparing fresh meals, or assisting you at checkout, they work hard every day to ensure you have the best experience possible. Our team goes above and beyond to make sure every customer feels valued and appreciated, creating a welcoming atmosphere where you’re more than just a shopper—you’re part of our community. When you shop with us, you’re not just supporting a family-owned business, you’re connecting with a team that truly cares about your satisfaction.
