A Pasadena pasta market was spared by the Eaton Fire. Now it’s counting on customers to return

Some Pasadena and Altadena businesses were spared from the Eaton Fire, and business owners that remain standing are asking people from outside the neighborhood to visit — even if it feels overwhelming.

Leah Ferrazzani owns Ferrazzani’s Pasta and Market on Lincoln Avenue and said the street has gone quiet since the fire.

“I know it feels overwhelming, especially if you're from outside the area. I know people don't want to feel like, looky loos,” she said “It is a gift to us. If you can overcome that trepidation and come and support our businesses, we are here to serve and give.”

The market has served pasta for eight years in Pasadena and survived the pandemic. But over the last several months it has donated to pantry restocks and local supper clubs for people who have lost their homes in the fire.

“We've been doing everything we can. And then working with all our neighboring businesses to get people to continue to patronize our shops and support as best they can,” Ferrazzani said.

In April, the market and 50 other women-owned businesses received grants from the Pasadena Women’s Business Center, which was partially funded by Paris Hilton. Ferrazzani said the cash helped with unexpected bills and offset the cost of throwing away tens of thousands of dollars worth of products after the fire.

But recovery will be a long journey, Ferrazzani said.

“If people don’t come to these businesses now, they won’t be here when people come home,” she said.

LAist’s Nereida Moreno recently spoke with Ferrazzani about what it’s been like recovering from the Eaton Fire. Here’s the full conversation.

Go deeper: 

Altadena's Good Neighbor Bar was there in a time of need. Now it needs support

How an Altadena yoga studio became a lifeline for Eaton Fire survivors