Our Story

Once upon a time in the adorable, charming town of Ocean Grove, 

New Jersey, a retired butcher meets a flight attendant.

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Otherwise known as "Mario The Butcher Montes".  Mario and his lovely wife Jeri previously lived in Pleasanton, California.  After spending time in Ocean Grove, they completely fell in love with all it had to offer.  A charming town near the beach with so many wonderful, kind, and caring people.  The decision was made to relocate permanetly to Ocean Grove.  Along the way, many friends were to be made.  One of them was his future businesss partner, Cathy Leone.  Mario and Jeri would make their occasional morning stop into the town bakery called "Ocean Grove Bake Shoppe" for a quick cup of coffee and favorite donut.  It was there that Cathy would randomly serve Mario his morning coffee and donut.  Cathy's family owns the bakery and whenever capable she would be there.  Cathy's primary occupation is a flight attendant.  Having the beauty of traveling overseas, Cathy would always share her delicious food experiences with her family and especially Mario.  Time after time they both agreed that the town was in need of some simple, delicious, fresh food that you can enjoy anywhere.  Especially at the beach.  Mario thought he hung up his knives forever.  It was apparent that this beautiful community was in need of exactly what he is capable of giving.  Cathy was interested for many years to someday create a deli in Ocean Grove.  The two both joined forces.  Mario and Cathy also have a deep spiritual connection. Both have agreed to dedicate the Deli to their loved ones who had passed away.  Mario's sister Missy and Cathy's brother-in-law John.  The tiny deli in the back alley was named, "John and Mario's Back Alley Deli".  Our sandwiches are named after all of our loved ones.  Our family.  One for Missy and John.  We know in our hearts they are both with us.   Forever and together they will walk down our back alley deli.