What’s happening in MenloVille?

While only the bones of its beer garden followed by grocery store past remain, MenloVille remains an eye-catching establishment on Valparaiso Avenue in Menlo Park, with its storefront filled with vintage signs and artifacts amidst otherwise residential setting.

Current owner Lisa Lovazzano first opened Menloville in 1999 and re-opened in 2007, following a couple of shuttered years. During its first re-birth, partrons could still pick up basic groceries and beer much as they had since the mid-1930s.  From the 50s onward, it was a convenient location for West Menlo school kids to bike to buy penny candy.

Today the food focus is on lattes and fine wine and the merchandise ranges from antiques to barnwood furniture to customade jewlery. Lisa also offers interior and patioscape design services, personal shopping and gift baskets.

Photos by Chris Gulker