Robinson’s Market has been standing for over 80 years in the middle of a neighborhood just north of East Main Street in Patchogue.
Now, the 3,000-square-foot establishment is going up for sale, according to the McGiveron Team at Douglas Elliman Real Estate. The asking price is $599,900.
The original owner, Phil Robinson, began building up the market at 60 Washington Avenue in 1935.
“Mr. Robinson took pride in serving good quality to the local community,” said the property’s listing agent, Tom McGiveron, who has researched the building’s history.
Robinson’s Market actually began as a dairy farm with cows and chickens, and sold mainly milk, butter, eggs, and other dairy products, said Steve Lucas of the Greater Patchogue Historical Society.
Robinson was so committed to his work that he even built his own home directly next door, at 58 Washington Avenue, McGiveron noted. After owning and operating Robinson’s Market for 50 years, Robinson decided to sell his business. But, it wasn’t without vetting.
“Mr. Robinson was only willing to sell if the new owners represented his values,” said McGiveron. “And that was to be good to the community, have cleanliness, and great customer service.”
In 1985, husband and wife Peter and Joan Valenti stepped up and spoke with Robinson about extending his tradition. And, it was a success.
“They run a tight ship and always greet you with a smile,” said McGiveron.
Peter Valenti, a former store manager at King Kullen, used his grocery experience to grow the market and continue its traditions. The Valentis were responsible for adding a deli to the market, which has since garnered some nice comments on Yelp.
“Robinson’s is not a deli trying to be a market nor a hip new franchise designed to be a market-market. It’s an honest to goodness market,” said Yelp commenter Jerry H.
Now, like their predecessor, the Valentis are looking to retire and sell their business — along with Robinson’s former home next door.
“Patchogue has been very good to us and I’m grateful,” said Peter Valenti.
The Valenti’s will spend their retirement years down in Florida.
Click here for the full listing.
Top photo: Outside of Robinson’s Market at 60 Washington Avenue.
