by Julie McIntosh
SANDFIELD—The Sandfield General Store and Country Kitchen, formerly Watson’s Store, opened its doors July 1.
Manager Sharlene Hyytiainen shared her excitement about last week’s opening. “It’s great—been very busy!” She has been travelling to every end of the Island picking up produce and goods for her store, which she runs with her children Ally, Jon and Hank.
The store includes a variety of goods, including locally sourced produce and meats and sausages, some of which is provided by area Amish families. Furniture and books are also sold at the location, as well as a wide selection of quilting supplies.
In between shopping, patrons and passersby can stop by the newly opened Country Kitchen, located inside the General Store itself. It sells your staple coffee and homemade pastries, all made from scratch, cakes, cookies, and their recommended apple pies can be bought to go or be enjoyed in the cozy seating section inside. Farquhar’s ice cream, sundaes and milkshakes are also offered to cool down the summer pallet.
Customers can enjoy the warmer side of the menu as well. Pizzas, subs and soups, all made fresh daily, are receiving rave reviews around the Island. You can build you own pizza or ask Ally about any recommendations. The menu rotates every week, so you can expect variety!
They have big plans for the months to come. Ms. Hyytiainen expects to keep her store busy with birthday parties, anniversaries and private events bookings. From winter onwards they hope to redesign the general store and cafe into a larger ice cream parlour and restaurant.
Previously, the building was operated by the Watson family in Sandfield for decades, but the establishment was closed in recent years. Ms. Hyytiainen herself was a pastor at South Baymouth’s Southbay chapel ‘The Bridge’ for eight years. Ally manages the restaurant while Jon and Hank help with orders and duties around the store.
To reach the general store, turn right off Highway 6 at Tehkummah and follow Highway 542. Pre-orders for pastries and event planning can be made in person or by phone at (705) 859-2151.
Ms. Hyytiainen is expecting to be open year round.
