Ratto's Market and Deli - Oakland

Opened by Giovanni Ratto in 1897, Ratto's Market and Deli is one of the oldest delicatessens in Oakland and one of the oldest businesses.

Early on, the store was located at 601 Washington (827 before renumbering) at 6th Street. For about 3 years, there was a partnership with Amador Rebechini, but that was amicably dissolved in 1910. ^2,3

6th and Washington, c.1910 ¹1912 Sanborn excerpt

By 1928 the store had moved to 811 Washington, the former location of B.A. Crestetto Grocery. At that point it was run by G.B.'s son, Mario, and G.B.'s son-in-law, Martin Durante.

By 1940, the store had moved to its current location at 821 Washington Street in the Gooch Block, originally the site of the Winsor Hotel.

Martin's son (also named Martin) started working at the store "when he was 10 years old," stocking shelves, sweeping the floors, and wrapping cheeses. 19 years later, he and Jack Garcia took over the business. In 1984, Martin Durante became sole owner. ⁴

1912 Sanborn excerpt