WEGMANS' CAFE ADDS WINE, BEER TO MENU

ROSEANNE HARPER

ROCHESTER, N.Y. -- Wegmans Food Markets here has begun serving wine and beer by the glass at one of its in-store cafes.

The 47-unit chain was given state approval for a license to serve the liquor July 1, according to Jo Natale, coordinator, consumer services, for Wegmans.

The spirits were made available at the retailer's Market Cafe in a unit in Canandaigua, N.Y., a summer resort area, over the Fourth of July weekend.

The retailer had also applied last spring for a license to serve wine and beer at another unit, in Pennfield, N.Y., but withdrew the application because of zoning problems, a local observer said.

At the Market Cafe, chalkboards list five wines by the glass. Most are from New York state vineyards, and prices range from $2.75 to $3.50 a glass.

Four brands of domestic, bottled beer are offered at $2.25; an imported beer is $2.50. Draft beer also is available. A light beer is $2 for a 15-ounce mug; another brand is $2.25 a mug.

Food at Wegmans' Market Cafes, which have extensive seating, includes grilled seafood and steaks, fresh pizza and pasta with a variety of gourmet toppings, as well as fresh Chinese and Thai selections. All are Wegmans' programs, presided over by a chef.

A source at the Canandaigua store told SN that customer comments on the serving of wine and beer at the cafe have been mixed. Some customers said they feel it takes away from the family atmosphere. Others have commented that it's nice to have the choice to order wine or beer. Positive comments appear to be outweighing negative ones.