New Owners and a New Beginning for The Pantry

By Joseph Montebello

A big smile, cozy atmosphere, good food, unique merchandise. These are a few of the things one can always rely on at The Pantry in Washington Depot. Michael Ackerman, who supplied those big smiles, has been the face of The Pantry since he and his wife Nancy purchased it in 1986.

“It was founded by Audrey and Jim Patterson in 1977,” explains Ackerman. “They had developed the concept. It was what people knew, and except for expanding the catering and adding new resources to the retail shop, we have kept it intact. The selections we offered grew as the food business evolved. In the ‘80s you could go to a specialty store like ours for many things you can now find in an upscale grocery store. As the food world evolved we needed something special. I have fantastic memories of traveling to the West Coast and to Europe finding things we could offer in the shop.”

During COVID The Pantry has been doing curbside service and takeout.

“Our servers are not back yet,” says Ackerman, “but one can also place an order, including a glass of wine, sit down at one of the indoor tables, and be comfortable. The store is also open for shopping,”

Ackerman, who resides in Litchfield, grew up in Milton where his grandfather had a little store at the turn of the century. “My father followed the retail tradition, so I guess it’s part of my genealogy. After college I moved back home and began working at The Pantry.”

For Ackerman it has been a labor of love and over the years customers have become friends. Employees whose first job was working there have gone on to start their own businesses. And in fact, he is delighted that the business will remain within The Pantry family.

“We’ve had a succession plan in place for some time,” says Ackerman. “I am so pleased that our manager Zoë Velush Rogers and chef Keith Bisciotti, who have been by our side for over a decade, will take up The Pantry mantle.”

What will Ackerman miss the most?

“The people. It’s always been about the wonderful people I’ve gotten to know. When Nancy was hostess on Saturdays it was like a great party.”

And what would he like to be remembered for?

“Kindness,” he replies. “It’s what I’ve always aspired to. Nancy and I both have welcomed this amazing opportunity to practice kindness and enjoy the opportunities we’ve had.”

Rogers and Bisciotti have taken over the reigns and couldn’t be happier.

“We are so grateful for what Nancy and Michael have given us. They make The Pantry feel like home to the staff and the customers. We will carry on that tradition in their honor and welcome old and new friends to what they have created for us.”

The Pantry
5 Titus Rd
860-868-0258