Residents of Kenmore were understandably disappointed when Premier Liquor closed its doors on Delaware Avenue. Fortunately, as Straight Up Wines & Liquors reminds its customers, “there’s still a great liquor store in Kenmore!” While Straight Up may lack the space and selection of Premier, it offers competency, convenience, and excellent customer service in its place.
Brenda Alesii and Dan Locche opened Straight Up on Elmwood Avenue on December 7, 2012. According to Dan, Straight Up is the couple’s latest ‘fun-loving venture.’ During their 25 years of marriage, the couple has collaborated on various projects, including seven nationally published sports books, a sports talk show on ESPN radio, and movie reviews for WKBW-TV.
Both Dan and Brenda are self-professed foodies. From the moment they met, the couple bonded over their love of food (and sports, apparently). According to Dan, “Brenda eats like a famished castaway and [he gains] the weight.” Brenda certainly has the track record to backup her passion for food. She has written a number of “Cheap Eats” articles for the Buffalo News, has a blog on WBEN radio’s web page, “Brenda Bites,” and a radio show on WWKB on Sunday mornings (10:30 AM) in which she spotlights local restaurants.
The store itself is well-stocked and carries almost anything that you would want to drink or bring to a party. Still, it generally takes me less than five minutes to walk into the store, find what I want, and check out. While I enjoy wandering around larger liquor stores, I often lack the time and leisure to do so.
One of the reasons why I keep going back to Straight Up is the fact that they have a fantastic loyalty program for customers. For each dollar that you spend in the store, you earn one point. And you can redeem your points whenever you want:
100 points = $5 gift card
250 points = $15 gift card
500 points = $40 gift card
1,000 points = $100 gift card
You don’t have to carry a card, or type in a number, to earn points in the store. You just have to give your name to the person who is checking you out. By signing up for the loyalty program, which only takes about two minutes, you also receive a $10 gift card that is valid during your birthday month. Straight Up also hosts various classes and tastings in the store.
For more information about classes and events, check the website or like them on Facebook.
If you are passing through Kenmore, be sure to give Straight Up a try.
Straight Up Wines & Liquors | 2534 Elmwood Avenue | Kenmore NY | (716) 871-1000