Chef's Opens To Rave Reviews

Chef's opened this morning to rave reviews from town officials, customers and neighbors to the controversial property at 717 Berlin Turnpike.

Owner of the site, Dominic DeMartino first proposed a Very Intimate Pleasures (VIP) for the spot but the town fought the business and has won every legal challenge thus far.

Neighbor Laura Michaud, whose property abuts the business and helped form "No VIP" said her dealings with DeMartino have been very cordial.

"They even invited to the ribbon cutting on Wednesday," Michaud said. "We have had fairly regular contact with Dom DeMartino for about a year, regarding re-planting trees on the border (his 1st attempt died.) He also came over and brought us on a tour inside in July

So DeMartino, who was vilified for wanting to put in the VIP, has made amends in Michaud's eyes.

"Yes, we are really happy that things have turned out this way," Michaud said. "Years ago, I (along with Hellyn Riggins, and probably others) suggested that he put a Chef's there. I really think it was (his attorney Dan) Silver who didn't want to give up the fight. This is a really nice addition to town, and much more welcome addition to the neighborhood. He has invested a lot in this to really try to make a go of it. I have to say that all of my personal dealings with DeMartino have been neighborly and friendly."

Business was brisk all day according to a manager at the store. The parking lot was full at 5 p.m. and customers browsed through the immense amount of culinary utensils and machines available at the store.