Henry Street Deli, a cornerstone of Burlington, Vermont’s Old North End known for its inviting atmosphere and delicious sandwiches, has officially transitioned to new ownership. As of last month, the neighborhood grocery and deli located at 11 Henry Street is now helmed by partners Mojo Hancy-Davis and Jordan Lewis. This change marks a new chapter for the popular spot, as Peter and Sawyer Sansom, the previous owners, have passed the torch after 13 successful years.
For Mojo Hancy-Davis, this venture is a natural progression in his established Burlington culinary career. He is also known for co-opening May Day in the spring of 2022, another Old North End favorite focused on seasonal cuisine. Hancy-Davis’s culinary talent has been recognized with a James Beard Award nomination for Best Chef: Northeast in 2022 for his work at May Day, adding to his experience at well-regarded establishments like August First and Misery Loves Co.
Jordan Lewis, the other half of the ownership duo, brings her extensive experience in Burlington’s hospitality scene to Henry Street Deli. While taking on this new role, she will continue her position as a bartender at Zero Gravity Craft Brewery, a popular local brewery.
Mojo Hancy-Davis and Jordan Lewis, the new owners of Henry Street Deli in Burlington, Vermont
The opportunity to purchase Henry Street Deli arose unexpectedly, according to Hancy-Davis. Lewis explained that their motivation was rooted in a desire to preserve a local gem. As longtime Burlington residents and devoted patrons of Henry Street Deli, they couldn’t bear the thought of it closing. For Lewis, the deli ownership also presented a welcome shift from her bartending career, offering new challenges and opportunities.
Hancy-Davis emphasized the untapped potential he sees in Henry Street Deli. While acknowledging his fondness for May Day, he felt that taking over the deli aligned better with his long-term aspirations.
Since taking over, the new owners have already begun to make their mark. They’ve invested in new equipment, including an oven and a flat-top grill, to expand the deli’s capabilities. Menu enhancements include exciting new sandwich options like a pork belly bánh mì, and they’ve also introduced tofu as a protein substitute to cater to diverse dietary preferences. Looking ahead, Hancy-Davis and Lewis are eager to elevate the deli further by introducing house-baked goods and broadening the selection of market items available to customers.
Despite these changes, Hancy-Davis assures that they are committed to maintaining the core essence of Henry Street Deli. Their vision is not to drastically alter the deli’s familiar charm, but rather to enhance and reinforce what makes it a beloved neighborhood institution. “We are not trying to chef it up,” Hancy-Davis stated, “We’re just going to double down,” signaling their dedication to amplifying the qualities that Henry Street Deli’s loyal customers have come to appreciate.
