Downtown Statesboro is welcoming a new restaurant as Wise Guys Deli & Bodega prepares to open its doors at 41 East Main St. The business will combine a made-in-house deli with the convenience of a neighborhood bodega, giving customers a new place to grab a fresh meal, pick up a quick snack or find everyday essentials.
Wise Guys Deli and Bodega was created by longtime friends AJ Jetwani, Garrett Riggleman and Rachael Garrard, with Garrard serving as the majority owner. While all three played an important role in bringing the business to life, Wise Guys is especially meaningful to Garrard as a passion project she has wanted to pursue for years. The three had each discussed the idea of opening a deli before eventually coming together and deciding to turn their shared idea into a business.
For Garrard, the idea of owning a deli goes back to her first job at a small deli. That experience stayed with her and helped shape the vision for Wise Guys. Now, she is bringing that vision to life in Downtown Statesboro while working alongside Jetwani and Riggleman to create a place where people can enjoy good food and spend time with friends.
The menu will feature sandwiches including the Reuben, turkey pastrami and chicken parmesan, along with pastries and desserts. Much of the food will be made in-house, with the owners placing a strong focus on freshness and quality. Wise Guys will also work with local bakeries and other businesses to offer additional products. Catering will also be offered and customers will be able to make requests on their website.
The bodega will add another layer of convenience to the business, offering grab-and-go items, toiletries and other everyday necessities. Its downtown location will make it an easy stop for residents, workers and visitors looking for a quick meal or something they need.
Wise Guys will also offer a variety of branded merchandise for customers to take home. The current lineup includes two T-shirt styles, hats, mugs, koozies and stickers. As the business grows, the owners plan to expand their merchandise selection with items such as blankets and bags.
The business also carries a connection to Downtown Statesboro’s past. The location previously housed Craig’s Deli, giving Wise Guys a nostalgic connection to a space many longtime residents may remember.
Although none of the owners are originally from Statesboro, they have each called the community home for around 10 years. Now, they hope Wise Guys Deli and Bodega can become another place where people come together, enjoy good food and support local businesses.
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Main Street Statesboro and the Downtown Statesboro Development Authority are committed to the economic development, historic preservation and beautification of Statesboro’s downtown area. Our purpose is to revitalize downtown economically and socially within the context of historic preservation by increasing financial viability and ensuring the success of businesses.
