Published: August 14, 2008 09:05 pm            

NEWFANE: Old fashioned deli and open air produce market coming soon

The birth of Salmon Ridge Mercantile in Newfane could be summed up in one word: local.

By the end of the month, Shari Valery and Tom Schuler are planning to open Salmon Ridge, an old-fashioned delicatessen and open air produce market, at Van Horn and East avenues.

With help from neighbors and friends, the building that will house the market is being renovated and restored with a historical feel.

Owned by Dan and Bev Mandaville, the building dates back to the 1860s. In a location once known as Brookins Block, it once was a piano store and was near a trolley route that serviced the area.

“This was built by locals and now it’s being renovated by local people, families that identify with Newfane,” Schuler said.

Salmon Ridge will keep the local theme going with its products. Schuler said the market will supply local fruits and vegetables, seasonal items such as pumpkins, deli meats and cheeses. The market will also sell canning supplies.

The deli will be New York style, with lunch and dinner specials as well as made-to-order deli sandwiches. There will be a small dine-in area and a spot outside on the deck where customers can eat.

Schuler said he has a background in food service equipment. The cost of gas was starting to hit him hard, as he had to drive from his home in Olcott to work each day. He wanted to stay in the Newfane area, where he said there was a need, and an opportunity, to sell perishable foods.

At the same time, the Mandavilles had bought the building with an eye on its historic origins.

Soon the two plans were united.

“It fit into what they wanted to do. It was both plans coming together,” Schuler said.

On Tuesday, work on Salmon Ridge went full steam ahead, as dairy coolers and meat scales were installed. Work on the parking lot will begin soon.

Valery said to help get ready, she and Schuler took a tour of local delis to get an idea what to carry and how to run a deli.

The name of the market itself is influenced by local roots. “Salmon Ridge” is inspired by Valery’s home, which overlooks a creek that’s teeming with fish.

The word “mercantile” means to supply local products, Schuler added.

        

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