The liquor store at the corner of Elmwood and Bird is closing. A few months ago, the store was purchased by Paul Antonio, owner of the Cameron’s 24 Hour Store, which is located across the street. A BRO reader spoke briefly with the owner, who mentioned that the business took a big hit after the opening of Amherst Street Wine & Liquor Store, owned by Nicole Wegman.
According to the BRO reader, who was surprised to hear that the store was going out of business, “Rents have not risen to cause any additional impact, according to the owner. The corner has been the location of a liquor store for over 50 years.”
For the duration of its existence, the liquor store was known as Danahy’s, until it was purchased by Antonio, at which time the name was changed to Elmwood Village Liquors.
It is interesting to note, that while this liquor store is closing, a new boutique wine and liquor store in the Five Points neighborhood appears to be thriving. Paradise Wine is carving out a niche by customizing its brands and its store offerings to a growing number of wine and spirit enthusiasts who are moving into the West Side of the city.
It will be interesting to see how the playing field shakes out in years to come. Amherst Street Wine & Liquor Store offers convenience and low prices, but is still big and boxy. My wife and I shop at Wegmans quite often, but we normally end up buying wine and spirits from our neighborhood stores.