Saline Market's Bashi Brothers Big On Customer Service

is a store that combines a sophisticated array of products from all over the world with the kind of customer service you expect from your favorite neighborhood market.

Owners Sal and Zee Bashi are brothers, and have been in business together, “Since forever,” they laughed. 

They opened their store in Saline because of all the area has to offer. 

“It’s a nice area,” Sal Bashi said. “It’s clean, organized, safe and modern.”  

His brother Zee chimed in.

“It’s just good people,” he said. 

Sal agreed, “that’s exactly what it is.”

With many loyal customers, people in Saline seem to feel likewise. The Bashis have regular customers who come back time and time again, whether it is for the extensive variety of fine wines, microbrew, domestic or imported beer, German potato salad from Metzgers, fresh pizza or even the propane. 

“Propane is selling better than expected,” Sal said, “I was surprised.  I had to go from a cage of 24 (tanks) to one of 36.”  

The two men pride themselves on serving their customers. They supply what is needed for everyday stops, like for milk and essential groceries or lottery tickets, but also for larger occasions. 

“People can stop in for free estimates on larger parties or special orders,” Sal said. The market keeps prices competitive and does not charge extra for special orders. For example, if a keg of imported beer isn’t standard inventory, they will order what is requested without a service fee.

“We can get just about any brand a customer wants,” Bashi said.

Over the past three years, the store has been completely remodeled. It offers more natural light thanks to the addition of huge, storefront windows. It is clean and modern, with new floors, counters, shelving and new, efficient coolers. The wine selection is extensive, and is beautifully displayed,  draped in a grape leaf canopy. For customers new to wine, Sal Bashi is extremely knowledgeable and more than willing to make suggestions depending on a person’s tastes. The market also offers wine specials by the half case or case. Business has been steadily improving, despite the economy.

The Bashis work well together, keeping a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

“He’s my best friend,” Sal said of Zee. “It’s easy. No set work hours. We just go with what flows.” 

One of the Bashi brothers is always at the market. Currently, their hours are from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m., Monday-Thursday,  9 a.m. to midnight, Friday and Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., Sunday. Their extended summer hours begin in April, when store stays open until 11 p.m., Monday-Thursday.