In Edmonton’s Strathearn neighbourhood for 35 years, Ralph’s Handi Mart has served as more than just a well-liked corner business.
It’s a fantastic place to visit and eat. Many people were aware of it, and the chicken was consistently excellent, according to regular patron Martin Rowe, who stopped by to present his kid to his favourite fried chicken.
Since years, customers have come for the fried chicken and stayed because of the friendly environment.
The cherished convenience store will have to permanently close, according to the owners, due to a new LRT line.
On Saturday, dozens of neighbours showed over to say farewell, exchange stories with the proprietors, and enjoy a final bite of their favourite chicken.
“We used to come here for lunch quite often, so just really good chicken, really friendly people that own the store,” longtime customer Krissy Shulte said who came stopped by for some fried chicken.
It was a significant part of my childhood and brought back many happy memories, therefore I find it sorry to see it disappear.
Customer Kevin Bell continued, “It’s a loss of a meeting place, it’s a loss of an aspect of community.”
In order to support his family, Hussein Saleh, commonly known as “Ralph,” purchased the store more than 30 years ago.
His passion to support the community and serve his famous chicken has made this closure difficult for him and many people who often stopped by to eat.
Ralph’s daughter Fatima Saleh remarked, “We’ve got our own specific combination of spices; nobody can make this special blend or obtain this blend other than dad, and so I think people really like it. It’s obvious that people enjoy it.
While Ralph will miss serving his renowned concoction of herbs and spices, the relationships and connections he’s established over the years are what really matter.
“We are like friends, they are like family to us,” Ralph said.
The family said it is now looking for a new location for their store, and they’re hoping to find a spot in the same community they’ve grown to love.
It’s a standard in this community, according to Shulte.
Edmonton residents attend the final serving of a popular convenience store’s fried chicken before it closes.
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