By Gerald V. Paul
Nicey’s Food Mart at 50 Morecambe Gate in Scarborough has closed after three decades, leaving only its take-out service to “bring the taste of the Caribbean right to your table.”
Nicey’s only remaining food mart is in Brampton where owner Alton Lodenquai said “We would like to thank all of Nicey’s beloved supporters in Scarborough. Enjoy the take-out service while we in Brampton have no plans to close.”
Duane Lai posted on the Nicey’s Take-Out website “Attention all Nicey’s patrons: Unfortunately Nicey’s Food Mart Scarborough has been closed for the foreseeable future. We would like to thank you all for your loyalty and dedication to our supermarket over the years. We look forward to continued service through our take-out restaurant, Scarborough, and Brampton location.”
Lai added, “Nicey’s Take-Out is still going strong and there is no plan on going anywhere.”
Nicey’s Food Mart, originally an 8,000 sq. ft. food and variety mart, was a refuge for immigrants who wanted a taste from home, be it the yellow yam, ackee or ginger, complimented by service with a smile and Jamaican cadence.
Eventually, a 15,000 sq. ft. plaza served as the anchor store.
Nicey’s was founded by Vincent (now deceased) and his wife Lorain Lai. Vincent once said, “We are determined to give our customers exceptional service. We have the annual customer appreciation day to show our customers that we do not take them for granted and that we appreciate the fact that they shop and support Nicey’s Food Mart and take-out.”
The Lais were proud to say “Anything you can get in Jamaica to buy, you can get here.”