Plan C for a Cookman Avenue storefront
"The Speakeatery" gourmet market to open next month
A new gourmet market will open next month at the now-closed location of Plan B restaurant on Cookman Avenue.
Andrew Vermilyea, 29, in partnership with his father Greg Vermilyea, says he plans to open The Speakeatery no later than the end of June.
“It will be a gourmet market, with prepared foods and a deli,” said Andrew, who will oversee the day-to-day operations of the business. “I’m doing something that’s geared more toward the people living in Asbury Park, as well as the workers and those coming to visit also.”
The Speakeatery is the third business in this building since it was rehabilitated and reopened several years ago. Jake and Lucy’s cafe and Plan B restaurant preceded it.
The building is located between the Ocean Park Gallery and the new home of the ShowRoom independent movie theater, which is currently under construction.
Vermilyea says there will be some inside seating. He says he’ll also carry produce and “higher end goods.” Future plans include grocery delivery. The Monmouth County native says he has been working in the food service industry since he was 13, including stints as a chef.
The Speakeatery will be the second Vermilyea family business on Cookman Avenue. Andrew’s sister Erica operates the Foolish Ginger clothing store on Cookman.
“I’m interested in Asbury Park,” said Vermilyea. “My grandparents and my mom grew up in Asbury. I spent a lot of time in Asbury when I was growing up. Seeing it come back to life is great.”
The Speakeatery hours tentatively will be from 11 am to either 8 pm or 9 pm, seven days a week, he said. One day a week Vermilyea says the store may close earlier.
