The former Positano/Cafe de la Plage property is not the only one headed for a tidal shift at Old Mill Beach.
This week, Elvira’s was listed for sale.
For 20 years, the deli/grocery store/community center has held the neighborhood together.
Through hurricanes, floods and blizzards — and throughout long, lovely summers — the Yiozanakos family has provided meals, comfort and a gathering place for area residents, walkers, joggers, bicyclists, construction workers, delivery guys, and anyone else lucky enough to be down in that laidback, underrated area.
But now Nicky and Stacey are ready to retire. The next generation — Nicki and Harry — are ready for the next stage in their lives.
Elvira’s was busy — as usual — earlier today. Note the 2 dog bowls, filled with water, flanking the front door.
Parting will not be easy — for the owners, or their customers.
“This neighborhood means a lot to us,” Nicki says.
“It’s a community. We’ve been like ‘Cheers.'” (Though the Boston bar, where everyone knew your name, never let kids run family tabs.)
“It’s sad,” she adds. “But it’s time. We’ve talked about this for a while. My parents put their heart and soul into Elvira’s. I hope people understand.”
Nick and Nicki Yiozanakos — hard-working father and daughter.
The business is very successful. And it is — in every sense of the word — a family business. Cousins and other relatives help out, joining the Elvira’s community too.
There was talk of Joey Romano — of Compo and Longshore fame — taking over. But Nicky and Stacey don’t want to be landlords. They’re looking to sell.
“There’s no rush,” Nicki says. “These things take time.” Barring a sudden offer, they plan to be open through the summer.
That’s good news. There should be plenty of time left for pizza, gyros and coffee.
For warm conversation, and cold drinks.
And to say “Σας ευχαριστώ και καλή τύχη” to the entire Yiozanakos family, for all they’ve done for all of us, for 20 wonderful years.
Stacey Yiozanakos waves to a customer, in a typical pose.
Joey Romeo…
For everyone that want to see this stay as a small business rather than sell as a building lot, you might want to start a “GoFundMe” or “Kickstarter” campaign now before the property sells to a developer followed immediately by requisite rending of cloths and gnashing of teeth (not to mention lawsuits).
Back in the ’50’s we’d bike after school for sodas, ice cream, Twinkies and penny candy – fireballs being a favorite – to what was then “Kenny’s Store.” The original Montgomery store was on South Compo where the I-95 overpass is today.
Side note: we could have cokes & treats with never a thought of obesity. We rode hard to get there & then sometimes walked our bikes up Compo Hill – cut thru the McKenzie’s back yard then coast very fast down Minuteman Hill.
Every day it was “Outward Bound!”
And also the Cokes came in 8-ounce bottles, not 32.
Wishing Nick, Stacey, Nicki, Harry, and the rest of the family all the best. Elvira’s has exemplified the best of a Westport “mom & pop” establishment.
Truly a sad but if news! I never fully appreciated the full scope of the warmth of the Yiozanakos family until I moved to the neighborhood. We make Elvira’s a destination on weekend mornings or after school. If I don’t happen to have enough money on me, “no problem, bring it next time”. Of course I can’t stand owing someone money so I go home and drive right over with what I owe! So nice that they are so warm and trusting. I will sorely miss them. I hope a warm, neighborhood-oriented family takes over but that is probably asking for too much! One can dream!
What a heart warming story and a testament to the Yiozanakos family for their incredible commitment to community and making summer memories. Us cyclists always appreciated knowing we could stop by and take a break…a destination we will sorely miss. Thank you and good luck. Just pray a gross fast food franchise doesn’t replace them.
Another sad happening for Westport!!! Many times – mainly spring and fall- my husband and I would go get a sandwich and a drink and than go over to Compo near the cannons – eat and enjoy the view. The food was delicious and , of course, the friendliness great!! Good luck to the family. they deserve a nice retirement for all of their hard working years!!
Westport’s shore line take me away! It is a favorite mini-vacation to walk or kayak to Elvira’s to pick up a wonderful salad or sandwich and just enjoy the views and open space along the shore. It’s such a treat to have such a delightful day within reach on any day you choose.
Dan – Where is Elvira’s listed for sale? Who would one contact if interested?
I believe it will be listed on Monday.