Over 20 years ago, Paula and Jason Garelick searched all around Westport for the right site. They had an idea — “Garelick & Herbs,” a spot for fresh, gourmet food, with takeout and catering — and they really liked Bridge Square, just across the river in Saugatuck.
Ultimately they decided on the Post Road, opposite Stop & Shop. It seemed more convenient for folks running around town. The Bridge Square property has become many things. Today it’s a Dunkin’ Donuts.
Next week, Saugatuck will finally have a Garelick & Herbs. The wildly popular store is opening a new location across the street from Bridge Square, at 580 Riverside Avenue. It’s the former site of CM Gourmet Market. (There are Garelick & Herbses in New Canaan and Greenwich, too.)
Garelick & Herbs: coming soon to Saugatuck Center.
Meanwhile, the store is expanding its original location. It’s moving a few hundred yards east and across the Post Road in Southport, into a spot once occupied by the Double L Farm Stand.
Paula and Jason always wanted to be near the train station. People could stop in for an early coffee, and on their way home pick up a fresh-cooked meal. They’re now working on a special commuter menu: “The Saugatuck Express.”
It will join Garelick & Herbs’ well-loved seasonal menus, along with an organic salad and juice bar. They’ll continue catering everything from family events to elegant weddings.
Saugatuck Center is changing nearly every day. It’s a far different place than it was just a few years ago — let alone 1992, when Paula and Jason Garelick almost opened their 1st store there.
But I bet Garelick & Herbs will be a Riverside Avenue mainstay for decades to come.
Another place to get coffee in Saugatuck — though 22 years ago it might have been the original Garelick & Herbs.
