The latest Wellesley, Mass., business news:
We Rock the Spectrum flooded; crowdfunding kicks in
We Rock the Spectrum, the inclusive gym opened in Wellesley Square in 2021 by a pair of sisters, has suffered a serious flood and is temporarily closed for business. The gym has closed “due to an unexpected flood from construction!” according to a social media post by the outfit (we’ve reached out for more details).
The owners have thanked friends and family for their support and offers to help. One way in which people can support We Rock the Spectrum is by contributing to an online crowdsourcing campaign that had raised more than $2K at the time of this posting.
We Rock the Spectrum Kid’s Gym, located at 34 Central St., features a sensory gym for all children, though caters to those with autism and other special needs.
Know of Wellesley businesses coming or going? Let us know: theswellesleyreport@gmail.com
Deluxe Pizza closes after 30-plus years; The Local owners buy space
Deluxe Pizza, located at 1 Forest Street, has closed after more than 30 years of serving pizzas, subs, and salads. But there are plans for it to re-open in a few months under new management.
The Wellesley Celebrations Committee last year honored owner Emmanuel “Manny” Houlis and Deluxe Pizza with a Special Recognition Award for its contributions to the town.
The tribute read in part:
Emmanuel Houlis worked for many years at ABC Pizza until he had the opportunity to embark on the adventure of owning his own pizza house. He started a new pizza and sandwich shop on the same site, naming it Deluxe Pizza. Today Deluxe Pizza on Forest St is celebrating its 30th year in Wellesley. Located within a short walk from the high school, he has been a favorite of the high school community, residents, and those working in the area. Customer favorites include steak and cheese sub, tuna sandwiches, chicken parmesan, salad, and pizza.
Emmanuel was born in Greece and served as a police officer and Captain in the Greek Army. He immigrated to the US in 1973.
Millions of immigrants start life here and follow a dream. They were united by a golden thread of principle that everyone, if given a chance, could rise in the world and contribute to their country.
Emmanuel Hollis has contributed, he makes great pizza, and is a great addition to our town. Thank you and congratulations on this milestone anniversary in your business.
Fans of Manny and the restaurant have been sharing their thoughts online.
The owners of The Local, which is almost right next to Deluxe Pizza, have purchased the space and plan to re-open it as Deluxe Pizza hopefully by mid-April in time for the Boston Marathon to come through town. The Local’s Frank Santo had nothing but nice things to say about Houlis, and wished him the best in retirement.
Santo says plans are to keep the shop the same in many respects, though it will undergo a sprucing up from the walls to the ceiling to the ovens. “We’ll deck it all out,” he says. Deluxe will continue to serve its usual fare, plus add breakfast sandwiches and some new items to the mix.
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Restaurants seek Select Board approvals
The Wellesley Select Board this Tuesday is a holding public hearing about a Common Victualler and All Alcohol License request from Charm Ramen and Rice at 555 Washington St. As we recently posted, Charm will slide into the space long occupied by Lemon Thai Cuisine.
Separately, the Board will hold a Public Hearing and Vote on a Wine and Malt Beverages License and Entertainment License for Captain Marden’s Seafood at 279 Linden St. As we wrote in December, the restaurant has closed temporarily while rebranding the table and takeaway side of the business to freshen things up and provide diners with a whole new experience.
Where to Eat in Wellesley
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