Whether you live here or are just a visitor, the Los Olivos Grocery is something of a landmark. You probably don't do your weekly shopping there, but you've been by...for lunch, for something from the deli, for a few extra items you needed. Visitors from all over stop there to grab a bite or put together a great picnic lunch between wine tastings around the valley.
Proprietors Rich and Lauren Cundiff have recently sold the LOG. Although a thriving business, the grocery had been for sale for quite a while, and it was supposed to change hands at the end of June, but there's been a slight delay. Word is that the new owners also own some convenience stores in the SYV. It's unclear how the market may change, but I have heard that some of the employees will be leaving.
The Grocery dates back to the 1930s when the Santa Ynez Valley was mostly big ranches and Highway 154 followed the old stagecoach route across the mountains. Then it was the Santa Ynez Valley Market and was the primary market for the Valley.
I wonder what will happen at the Grocery under its new ownership. Let me know if you hear anything.
