Pasta Chips Go Beyond TikTok And Hit Retailers

Italians don’t play when it comes to their culinary snacks. From aperitivo bites to taralli, there’s no shortage of choices. Now, Chef Joe Sasto is adding another one to the list: Tantos.

Described as the world’s “first and only puffed pasta chip seasoned with classic Italian-American flavorings,” the brand’s inaugural four flavors are Marinara, Cacio e Pepe, Pesto and Classico. Though the viral pasta chips trend popped off on TikTok last year, Tantos are set to go beyond that and hit retailers.

The brand name “Tantos” was inspired by the Italian expression Tantos Si, which roughly means “so much yes.” Made with flour and water, then fried in oil and seasoned with Italian spices, Tantos are looking to reinvent the way people think of pasta. 

“I come from a big Italian family, and anyone who knows me knows my favorite things to eat are pasta and nachos,” said Joe Sasto, Creator and Founder of Tantos, who is also known from his appearances on “Top Chef” and Food Network. “When I first created Tantos, it was a bit of a happy accident. I’ve spent several years perfecting each flavorful recipe to represent the classic pasta dishes my mother taught me how to make, just in a new and modern way.”

Tantos is priced at $2.99 for a 1 oz bag and $6.99 for a 4 oz bag. Available nationwide via the Tantos website, Amazon and select grocery stores, they will also be available for a limited time at Pop Up Grocer in New York between July and September 2024.