Flo's Italian market coming to Main Avenue
Apr. 25—ASHTABULA — Flo's Italian Market is expected to open this fall on Main Avenue.
"It's wonderful to welcome a new locally owned business," said project consultant Jamie Baker.
Owner Alisha McLaughlin said that they are still working on finishing the storefront and perfecting the recipes.
"We've been making cupcakes and cannolis for all of our friends and neighbors to try and so far they are a complete hit," McLaughlin said.
The market will also have Italian takeout food including build-your-own pasta bowls, sandwiches, salads, soups and desserts.
The market will incorporate special Italian holiday food items (Italian Christmas cookies and ham pie), that are harder to find, according to McLaughlin.
"Most of the recipes are passed down from my grandma, who Flo's is named after," McLaughlin said.
Neighboring businesses are happy that the street is growing.
"The more the merrier," said The Bakery on Main owner Stacey Stevenson. "Alisha is passionate about Main Avenue and that's much needed."
There are not a lot of food options currently on Main Avenue, with the exception of Dublin Down Irish Pub and Eatery, El Turpial True Flavors, Domino's Pizza and Luigi's Pizzeria.
"It's a great idea," said Framed on Main owner Charles DiGiacomo. "We're a food desert out here. We need more food, which is coming from all of the other ventures."
McLaughlin is currently the owner of The Space on Main and is the promotions chair for the Ashtabula Downtown Development Association.
She said that she is excited to introduce her new business venture to the street.
Flo's Italian Market will be located at 4603 Main Avenue.
