During a difficult streak of store closures and low sales for our local businesses, a new deli has brought life to Chatsworth Avenue. Larchmont Gourmet and Catering, which had its soft opening at the beginning of this month, cut the ribbon this morning, officially opening its doors by giving out free bagels, rolls, candy and food samples to everyone.

Local officials, business owners, friends and family stopped by the deli this morning to show their support. Among them were Larchmont Mayor Liz Feld, Larchmont Trustee Josh Mandell, Larchmont Chamber of Commerce President Jeff Rosenberg, recently hired Larchmont Chamber of Commerce Acting Program Director Debra Kling and Gjoko's Salong & Spa owner Gjoko Shkreli. 

"It's super that we have a new business coming to town that brings back the life to the stores that have closed down," said Larchmont Trustee Josh Mandell. "A vibrant shopping district is absolutely key to the future of our Village."  

The space where Larchmont Gourmet now stands used to be a real estate office. Closed for several years after the realtors moved out, the business surely brings vibrancy to the corner of Chatsworth Avenue and Railroad Way.

Bright and spacious, the space was the work of Artistic Remodeling Solutions, with some initial design contributions from Larchmont's Gordon and Yestadt Architects.  

Owner Martin Gojcaj and his partner John Cherubini offer a wide selection of products, including Italian dishes like stuffed portobello mushrooms, veal, beef and pork meatballs and a wide range of sauteed vegetables. Prior to Gourmet Deli, Cherubini had a deli in the Bronx. Gojcaj, who lives in Yonkers, does building management in addition to owning the Larchmont deli. 

Gojcaj grew up in Little Italy in the Bronx and Cherubini is Italian, so they do a lot of the cooking themselves, they said. At least six hot dishes are offered every day, including spare ribs and brisket, and their salads, sandwiches and breakfast items are also home-made.

"The house blend coffee is our big seller," said Cherubini. They also have freshly baked muffins and a wide assortment of candies from Elk Candy, a New York chocolate and marzipan store since 1933. 

"It's a happy occasion," said Debra Kling. "We hope it's the first of many more." 

Larchmont Gourmet and Catering is on 145 Chatsworth Ave. in Larchmont. Store hours are Monday through Friday, 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. (914) 834-4545.