Foxfield Plaza Back on the Market, Liquor License Approved for Antonia's Deli

On the heels of a failed development deal at Foxfield Plaza, the selectmen have chosen to suppose a local business that remains inside the plaza.

The selectmen voted 4-0 on Oct. 7 to allow for the transfer of a beer and wine package store license from the Reserve Bin to Antonia’s Deli.

Both businesses are operated by the same family with the Reserve Bin expected to close by the end of the year. Like Antonia’s Deli, the Reserve Bin is located at Foxfield Plaza.

During the hearing, the selectmen praised the quality of the food and the business which is managed by Giacomo (Jack) Torsiello.

According to attorney Frank Spillane, who was present at the hearing with Torsiello, there will be a limited amount of beer and wine for sale that will not be the same inventory as the Reserve Bin. Spillane added that they hope to add more options if they get more foot space in redevelopment.

The wine will be on display for customers to view and the craft beer will be available from behind the counter.

Selectman Jim DeVellis said he was initially hesitant about the transfer on the heels of nine liquor license violations during a compliance check but appreciated the fact that there would be no “grandiose” display of alcohol.

Selectman John Gray showed support for what he called the marriage of the food and wine.

“You’re making a complete meal by placing the wine with food and I think your main focus is food. It should make for a good business and bring in some traffic,” Gray said.

The license allows Antonia’s Deli to set up retail for beer and wine. Consumption of alcohol at the store is not allowed by the license.

The license transfer is part of an effort to bring in more traffic and enlarge the restaurant’s footprint in anticipation of redevelopment. According to Spillane, a new developer is likely to triple their rent.

The latest attempt to redevelop Foxfield Plaza would have turned the shopping center into the Shoppes at Robison Brooke. The developers were hoping to break ground on the two-phase, 11-acre project in the late fall or early winter.

Spillane told the Foxboro Reporter on Wednesday that there is no longer a deal between Harvey Smith, the owner of Foxfield Plaza and the Carpionato Group of Johnston, RI.