OMG: Old Mill Grocery and Deli Open for 103rd Season with New Crew at Helm
WestportLocal.com photos. Click to enlarge. The shoreline corner store opened today for its 103rd season under a new, yet familiar name with a team of intrepid neighbors at the helm. The Old Mill Grocery & Deli brings the history of the property back to the forefront of everyone’s minds as its community connections will be propelled into 2022 with renowned food service by The Granola Bar Hospitality Group and ownership that’s dedicated to the community’s future.
From bacon/egg/cheeses to pasta bolognese, the shop will crank out old and new favorites in addition to the stock of snacks, drinks, clothing, and other shoreline sundries seven days each week from 7 AM until 9 PM. From teenagers on bicycles to parents walking in the early morning: OMG&D is back and here to stay with every french fry sold and with every moment spent chatting on its picnic benches.
The new lease on life for 222 Hills Point Road came just as it was at risk of development and demolition for residential housing. Through philanthropy and quick action by neighbors who formed the Soundview Empowerment Alliance, “in a few short months, the team raised nearly $1.3 million dollars from more than 500 donors, secured a mortgage from Fairfield County Bank, and in May of 2022 closed on the purchase of the property.” With a mission to save the property, preserve and evolve the business, and then to support the training and employment of individuals with disabilities - the SEA and TGB Hospitality Group have made the store a community landmark both physically and emotionally for all who cross over its threshold.