Carmen always has a smile on her face and her services include color, haircuts, and make-up (by appointment). She takes walk-ins and appointments and has provided extra outdoor seating for anyone waiting in safety. She and her daughter are welcoming and talented and have cultivated quite the following. She has a car for children to sit in while getting their $12 haircuts. She also offers discounted dry haircuts to seniors on Wednesdays for $12.
Located across from the new Baked by Susan location. Julio is a talented, full-service auto mechanic, who also offers oil changes and is reasonably priced. He had worked for years at Hudson View Auto, decided to branch out on his own. In just the short time he has been open he is already known for doing those extras that keep people coming back. I spoke to a very pleased senior citizen customer, who mentioned he cleaned the leaves out of her windshield and wiped the car down inside before she got in (and she was just there to have her engine light checked!) “It’s the little things that make the difference,” she said.
Always cheerful Irma opens her the cute space in the upper village at 7:30am for the convenience of her clients. She offers $12 haircuts to seniors on Wednesdays, and $12 haircuts to children as well. She cuts both men, women, and children’s hair and welcomes the new business!
This brand-new deli is located next to the laundromat on Grand St. near the Grandstand. It is a bodega-style deli selling milk, eggs, cleaning products, and condiments including dry food. The idea for people to stop in and grab something without having to stop at the big stores. Rodolfo said they are still waiting on approval so they can open their deli counter. Let’s all help them grow!
When you walk into this charming little shop you will realize it is not just about beautiful flower arrangements. It is a gift store filled with thoughtful unique items from hostess gifts to holiday gifts or a place where you can find a little something for yourself. Catherine and Janelle are incredibly talented and offer creative suggestions for any of your needs.
Franki’s has become a big favorite with the local kids. Whether it is his close proximity to the schools or a menu that appeals to all ages, he stays very busy. If you order one of his hot sandwiches, chicken fingers or burgers, and fries, he does not disappoint. Franki’s offers mainly takeaway service. Limited indoor and outdoor seating is available.
Maracas offers $5 drink and food specials for their Happy Hour which includes margaritas and sangrias Mon-Fri 4pm-7pm. There is both indoor and outdoor seating available including booths which are a customer favorite when seated inside. They offer a wide variety of Mexican food which includes a children’s menu. Take-out and delivery are available.
Mayra is always coming up with delicious seasonal items to keep her take-out menu fresh. Whether you are in the mood for tortilla soup, rotisserie chicken dinner, or a burrito, this is a great little Mexican take-out place. There is a picnic table out front for those who want to eat there. She has developed quite a local following.
Whether you are in the mood for chicken bacon ranch pizza or a chicken marsala dinner, Pronto is more than just a pizza place. The restaurant is available for seating along with outdoor space as well. Note: Monday and Tuesday they offer $10 pizza deals for pick up only. Curbside pickup and delivery are available.
When you come into this deli you will most likely come across Matilda and Rosa. This mother and daughter team create a daily, behind the counter buffet of Latin food. If you like shellfish, they often serve up some delicious combinations. If you feel a cold coming on you must try the best chicken soup around. I must warn you though, unlike American traditional chicken noodle soup with shredded pieces of chicken, this authentic soup has parts. Do not let that scare you away! Ask for the broth or pull out the wing or leg and cut it up and throw it back in because the broth is as delicious as it is medicinal! My kids asked for seconds!!
Yuka’s has become quite popular with its Latin-infused menu. From Sangria Sunday, Taco Tuesdays, Mojito Wednesday to Ladies Thursday there is always a fun special to be had! There is even something for the kids too! Sunday Kids eat Free (kids’ menu only-with adult meal $15). Indoor and outside seating is available including extra seating out front. Available for take-out. Claudia prides her self on her consistency when it comes to her food. Bravo Claudia!
Researching this article and writing this piece has reminded me how much I miss my late father. He like many of these business owners had overcome so much to achieve success. I am reminded of the stories of my father and his family in their Havana home where he had servants and drivers and was surrounded by so much opportunity. Only to watch everything he knew get taken. He was talented and smart and received both an engineering and football scholarship to Purdue, even after he skipped his senior year of high school. Only to leave at the age of 16 to take care of his sister and mother because his father was never going to be able to come back to America. Nobody on my grandfather’s side would be back. He heard of schoolboy friends who went to jail for just using their voices. My son is 16 and I can’t imagine him ever having to go through anything like that. Today I not only honor my heritage but I honor my dad. I honor the grandfather I never met and the home I will never see and the family I will never introduce to mine. My father loved raising us in Croton because it was a safe place where everyone looks out for one another. My parents lived in our house for thirty-one years. His biggest joy was offering security and creating a home his kids would want to come back to. He never wanted us to know the pain he carried and I suspect that is why he never spoke of it. I often wondered why my siblings and I came back to this area to raise our kids after so many years away. I think today I found my answer.