It looks like a deli and convenience store is coming to Crystal City.
Nick Naser, owner of Good Guys Deli and Market, said he aims to open the business this spring at 1242 N. Truman Blvd.
“It’s going to be where fresh meat is going to be cut up right in front of you, and sandwiches are going to be made right in front of you. It’s an old school deli,” said Naser, 57, of Swansea, Ill.
He said the convenience store section of the shop will carry grocery items, such as chips and soda that can be paired with the deli sandwiches to make a full meal. He intends for the deli to be a place where families can go to eat a meal together.
“There’s going to be a spot with tables for people to eat inside, and there will be some kind of patio on the outside so they could sit down and enjoy a sandwich,” Naser said. “We just want homeowners and people in the neighborhood to come in and give it a shot. We will have a clean and safe environment.”
Naser said the long-vacant property needs some costly improvements, both inside and out, before it’s ready for customers, including repaving the parking lot, installing new electrical systems and remodeling the interior space. He said the building was not connected to water or electricity when he purchased it.
“This building has been neglected for so long, and it needs some work,” he said.
Naser said he plans to make the renovations with care to maintain the history of the building.
“We are not tearing up any of the walls or the brick on either the inside of outside. We are trying to preserve the brick to have a rustic look for the building,” he said. “My understanding is that it was built before World War II.”
Naser said he is not from the area but was encouraged to visit Crystal City to see if it would be a good fit for his business.
“I came to Crystal City, and I liked the vibe in the city. I like how it seems that everybody is interested in having a business, creating jobs, making a living and that it’s a safe environment,” he said.
Naser said the store will be open seven days a week, but he has not yet decided on the hours, adding that he could end up changing the hours to suit customer needs after the business opens and he gets a better idea of what the business traffic will be.
“At the end of the day, we want to help serve the community,” he said.