Santo's: Another Long-Time Carroll Gardens Deli To Close

I knew something was up when I walked past  Santo's Natural and Organic Farm in Carroll Gardens a few days ago.  Normally, there would be an amazing display of cut flowers and fresh produce in front of the small deli at 429 Court Street near 3rd Place. Now, there were only three bouquets and a few grapes and oranges to chose from outside. It seemed unusual.
The explanation came a few days later . Owners Joe and Sue, who have managed this neighborhood store for the past 22 years, will be closing their business at the end of October.
I stopped by yesterday and spoke to Raymond, who was standing behind the counter. He explained that the store had been profitable for many.many years, but that ever since Whole Foods had opened up, it had syphoned much business away from them.  They adapted by offering more organic produce and products, since that was what the new customers in the neighborhood seem to want, but it was not enough to carry on.
The  owners' intention has been to stay till the end of their current lease, knowing that the landlord was planning an increase in rent for a new lease, which would have made the store non-viable.
So, the doors of this beloved little deli will close for good on October 31st.
It will be a sad day for those who have shopped here before there was Whole Foods, Union Market and Gourmet Food.

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