Gold Medal Market

Perched at the intersection of Main Street and Shore Road, Ayhan's Mediterranean Marketplace is a cornerstone of the Lower Main Street historic district. The distinctive white stucco and glass building, with its cobalt blue patio umbrellas and plantation shutters, conjures up a stateside slice of the Greek islands. The market anchors a triumvirate of Ayhan restaurants and acts as a gateway to Port Washington's Lower Main Street harbor area. It's a fitting locale for owner Ayhan Hassan, a native of Cyprus, the Mediterranean island at the crossroads of three continents.

"We are the most visible corner in town," Hassan observed . "Lower Main Street is rejuvenating. We are becoming a Mecca for weekenders." 

Hassan's postcard-worthy views and carefully groomed exterior plantings have garnered the Mediterranean Marketplace the August Golden Storefront Award, presented monthly by community groups Residents for a More Beautiful Washington (RFMBPW) and the Greater Port Washington Business Improvement District (BID).

"Port Washington has many gems along our mile long Main Street and Ayhan's Marketplace is one of them," said Mindy Germain, executive director, Residents for a More Beautiful Port Washington. "The Marketplace and its sister restaurants are helping anchor our efforts to make Main Street a destination for Port Washingtonians and visitors from across Long Island and Queens."

Hassan shares Germain's vision for the area saying, "Lower Main Street has a lot of potential."

The Golden Storefront Award recognizes businesses for maintaining a debris-free storefront and sidewalk area, weeding and watering sidewalk tree beds, regularly sweeping sidewalks, adhering to trash collection schedules and maintaining clear sightlines into store windows.

The Mediterranean Marketplace bills itself as a gourmet deli but in truth it's more of a mini-fine foods emporium serving everything from homemade baklava to brined olives and heaping barrels of nuts and dried fruits.  Sure you can get a wrap or a pizza, but do yourself a favor and get a side of tzatziki. The Mediterranean offerings are what sets this store apart.

The Marketplace is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner and has indoor and outdoor seating. It also offers catering services. 

The "Golden Storefront" is awarded monthly. Last month's winner was S.F. Falconer. Votes for merchants can be cast at Residents' web site.