The current Tocco Foods began in 1985 by Anthony & Pete Tocco, Peter “Uncle Pete” Guiffrida and Frank Tocco, Anthony & Pete’s father. But the family roots in the food business goes back to the late 1800’s, where Frank Tocco’s grandfather, Leonardo Tocco was a fisherman in Terrasini, Sicily. Leonardo’s son, Anthony “Nino” Tocco came to America in 1905 and began selling seafood during the 1920’s around the Carr & Cass area. He used a cart in the beginning and later got a horse and wagon until finally he used a truck. Anthony’s wife Sarah handled the business in the store, which was located in the area now occupied by the Convention Center.

Seated in the wagon is young Anthony “Nino” Tocco, Anthony & Pete’s grandfather circa 1910.


The family’s involvement in the foodservice business continued in the 1960’s when Frank and his brothers operated Tocco Brothers Seafood. Uncle Pete, Frank’s brother-in-law, began his career with them, as a driver and warehouse worker. Anthony & Pete began their career working for several companies on produce row.

In 1985, the father, sons & brother-in law decided to put their years of experience and knowledge into their own business, along with Cookie, Frank’s wife. Handling the office duties the current Tocco Foods was established.


Here is Frank Tocco, Anthony & Pete’s father.


Tocco Foods began specializing in pizzerias and Italian restaurants, but over the years they have expanded to a full-service foodservice distributor. In 1999, Tocco Foods added a 20,000 sq ft addition. Tocco Foods is proud to service businesses in a approx 40 mile radius of the warehouse. We may not service the largest area, but we offer the highest level of service in our area.

In 2003, in an attempt to make solid our purchasing power and selection of products, Tocco Foods joined the Buonamici buying group. Belonging to Buonamici allows us the ability to compete with the larger distributors without giving up the advantages of a small family operated business.

During all of the years and changes, the one constant has always been to carry the finest quality products and offer the best service at a fair and constant price, this is not a motto or mission statement, but way of life at Tocco Foods.

We welcome you to our website and invite you to inquire about becoming our newest satisfied customer.

Ciao !!


The founder’s and owners of Tocco Foods L-R; Anthony Tocco; Peter “Uncle Pete” Guiffrida; Pete Tocco getting together at a family wedding.