Elizabeth said the family formerly owned and operated Boyd Tavern, a successful business.
“We sold out because we really didn’t know that much about the gas station end of it. We’re cooks and that’s what we do best.” She added that they sold Boyd Tavern to a developer before the economy went bust.
Elizabeth and her husband Joe also manage Penne Lane Catering and will be catering the Fluvanna Chamber of Commerce’s Business After Hours in Palmyra on Thursday (Sept. 20). They originally started the business in Long Island, New York.
“Everything got too expensive and after 911 we decided to move down here.” Once they relocated to Palmyra, Elizabeth worked for Greencroft Club and Westminister-Canterbury. Penne Lane caters the annual Darden School of Business graduation. This year it was a pig roast at Penn Park.
Joe, who had been working in bakeries in New York since he was thirteen then became a pastry chef amd does the baking. Everything is homemade. Just looking at their selection of baked goods would have one breaking down to try one of their mouthwatering specialties. Even their peanut brittle is not typical; it is softer, made with nuts, dried fruit and chocolate chips. If you’re not a peanut brittle purist then it is worth trying. There are almond horns, huge macaroons and éclairs, chocolate ganache brownies ,and much more to tempt one’s palate.
The chicken salad is touted as one of the best in the area and the pasta salad looks like a winner for those who prefer vegetarian fare, not to mention homemade croissants, multigrain, pumpernickel and rye breads.
Unfortunately, for Joe, he has had to cut back on his time baking since having a heart attack and is now in need of a transplant. While he waits, he helps when he can and is now training a new pastry chef.
Elizabeth is thankful to her neighbors – one in particular – who comes by and fixes a few things when needed. Also helping in the business is their son Patrick, a friendly young man who greets customer and takes orders.
“I’m hoping next year at this time, Joe will have his transplant. It’s just rough right now.”
Mona Orange, who did a review last year after the business opened, wrote, “There is nothing like home cooking. My husband and I have been to Troy Market, Deli and Bakery several times and the comment we usually make to each other is that their food tastes like it is home cooked or better.”
Their deli’s prices are reasonable. They have cold and hot sandwiches, subs, salads, hot entrees and much more.
Everything is homemade and fresh and made to suit the most finicky eaters.
There are several tables available inside and outside for a quick bite. This is a full service market as well with other items, including beer and wine.
Elizabeth and Joe are waiting to meet and greet more of their neighbors and while there, stop by Papa Jim’s for some soft serve ice cream.
