Mom and pop grocery stores can be special places. Sam Abdallah certainly agrees, which is why he is opening a deli and market in Kirkwood. The market will be located at 500 W. Essex Ave., in the space formerly occupied by the popular Majic Market. Abdallah’s father is the property owner of the space.
Kirkwood Deli and Market will be both deli and grocery store. In addition to offering great cuts of cheese and fresh meats, the deli will also have an extensive take-out menu. Although the menu is still being finalized, Abdallah intends to honor the store’s past as a gyro stop. “We will still have an incredible gyro sandwich,” said Abdallah, who has 20 years of experience in the restaurant industry.
The 2,500-square-foot space will also be stocked with grocery items and non-food, convenience products. One section of the store will even be dedicated entirely to products made by Kirkwood businesses. “We want to advertise the area of Kirkwood,” explained Abdallah. “It’s a community-driven project.” The desire to serve nearby residents has also prompted Abdallah to offer grocery delivery, which will begin about six months after the store opens. “It will be a throwback to the 40s and 50s,” he noted.
The renovation is slated to begin soon and Abdallah expects the project to take four to six weeks. When construction concludes, customers will find old-world signage but an interior with a contemporary feel. “We are really trying to build something special at this place,” said Abdallah. “We want to give this store back to Kirkwood.”
This article appears in February 2011.