The inside scoop is that this is where San Antonio’s top chefs get the goods. Tucked away in an industrial park on Isom Road, a small family-owned com- pany called Ciorciari’s GauchoGour- met is bringing in delicious treats from Europe and South America (think Foie Gras and Black Truffle oil). And this wholesale market is open to the general public.

Here’s just a little taste: until Dec. 31, pick up Prosciutto San Daniele, aged 18 months, for just $12.95/ lb or try some “just cracked” Parmigiano Reggiano for $9.95/lb. Here you can buy olive oil in bulk, pick up a holiday panettone from Italy, arrange for amazing gourmet meat and cheese platters for a party or get a gift basket that shows off the best Texas-made goods.

Better still, these days Ciorciari’s GauchoGourmet is getting into the buy local, eat local spirit.

On Saturdays from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m., Johnson’s Backyard Garden, one of the state’s largest organic and sustainable farms, sells their fresh, local produce right in the store – an indoor farmers market. In fact, every Saturday, it feels more like a party with chef demos, vendors sampling and sandwiches and salads from the deli.

• To learn more about GauchoGourmet, visit their Website at www.gauchogourmet.com.