It’s what the people wanted, and they’ve helped it become a success. The Chicago Bay Marketplace in Hovland opened its doors two years ago this May, and things are going well, said owner Lisa Mesenbring.

Before starting the small deli and grocery store, Mesenbring sent a mailing to area households and property owners to see if people were interested in that sort of addition the community. Over 50 percent of the people responded, she said, and 98 percent of the responses were positive.

“They were so enthusiastic and with my background in marketing I knew it was a good response,” Mesenbring said. “We already had the building—this wasn’t what we were planning to do, but with such an overwhelming response it was clear that this is what people wanted.”

So what makes this tiny spot so special? It’s the only thing like it in the 36 miles from Grand Marais to Grand Portage. Chicago Bay Marketplace has become a hangout for locals, who enjoy Mesenbring’s homemade pizzas, sandwiches, and cinnamon rolls, but it’s also a great place to stop on a trip up the shore. There’s indoor seating for 34 people and space for another 16 on the patio.

“Our business is mainly locals and vacation owners, but we get a small portion of Canadians and some people just stop in,” Mesenbring said. “It’s been fun to get to know some of the people that I didn’t know already—it kind of brings the community together.”

Beyond the deli food, the store also has a selection of traditional groceries, as well as organic and natural ones—anything a person might need in a quick trip to the grocery store. Mesenbring also offers up her homemade bread, pies, brownies and hand-dipped ice cream. She previously worked in restaurants, and has been baking all her life, so this type of work comes naturally to her. For herself and the five employees, Mesenbring said the place definitely has a future.

“I guess in some ways opening the store was like a gift to the community,” Mesenbring said. “We didn’t know if it was a place that would be able to sustain itself, but we’ve been pleased with the success.”

Chicago Bay Marketplace is located in the town of Hovland, 18 miles east of Grand Marais and 18 miles west of Grand Portage. It’s open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. year round Monday through Saturday. Call (218) 475-2253 for more information.