Chapin Welcomes New Sandwich and Sweet Shop: A Family’s Dream in the Making

Chapin Welcomes New Sandwich and Sweet Shop: A Family’s Dream in the Making

In the charming town of Chapin, there’s a buzz in the air as local folks eagerly anticipate the re-launch of the town’s beloved sandwich and sweet shop, S&S Destination. The father-daughter duo, Peter Kalogeropoulos and his daughter Alexis, are putting their all into creating a local hotspot that promises more than just delicious food. Just hours before we stopped by for a chat, Peter had a bit of a mishap—he took a tumble while fixing up the shop, bumping his back on the counter where he plans to serve coffee and ice cream soon.

Aiming for September 6 Opening

They’re working hard to have the shop ready for its grand opening on September 6, with hopes of celebrating Labor Day with the community. This enthusiasm echoes their family’s journey, leaving bustling Long Island, New York, in search of a slower pace and new opportunities in Chapin. Sure, the challenge is real as they take on a space that was closed for business since the initial COVID shutdowns, but neither Peter nor Alexis seem deterred.

Peter mentioned, “I’m not worried about our business model at all.” They plan to offer quick, savory snacks and sweet treats that are perfect for a quick bite. Positioned right in the heart of downtown, the location at 1200 Chapin Rd. is ideal for capturing foot traffic from pedestrians enjoying the historical charm of Chapin.

Tapping into Local Traffic

With a slim parking situation, walk-up traffic will be crucial. Alexis highlighted the stunning mural on the side of their building that’s part of the Chapin Art Trail, which they believe will attract even more visitors. The space they’re renovating carries a rich history, dating back to 1948, and was once home to various businesses including a filling station and a hot dog joint beloved by local students.

The history doesn’t stop there—before the current building, there were several structures serving the community for over a century. Peter grinned as he pointed out the informational plaque near the front door narrating the building’s story, saying, “It adds character, and people love that.” And while breathing new life into this historic spot has been a challenge—with corroded pipes and roof leaks—it’s a labor of love for the pair.

Bringing New Flavors with a Touch of Tradition

Bringing in her past experience, Alexis plans to shake up their menu by introducing a variety of smoothies and protein shakes to cater to the sporty crowd, especially the local Chapin High School football team where Peter’s son plays. On the sweet side, the promise of 20 flavors of ice cream (up from just six) aims to cool people down from the famous South Carolina heat, while old-school candies will still grace the shelves.

They’ll also keep their coffee selection robust, ensuring there’s something for everyone. “Hot dogs will definitely be on the menu,” Peter emphasized with a smile. And in a quest for the ultimate New York bagels, he’s on the hunt for a vendor that understands the importance of the right water—and who knew water could be such a hot topic?

A Southern Spice with a New York Twist

While some locals have mixed feelings about newcomers to Chapin, Peter and Alexis are aiming to blend the best of both worlds—Southern hospitality with a New York flair. “We’re not bringing that cut-throat New York vibe here, we want to create a welcoming spot,” Alexis assured, and with that kind of attitude, it’s hard not to root for them.

With preparations in full swing, one thing is clear: S&S Destination is set to become more than just a sandwich shop. It’s about community, family, and sharing joy through tasty food. So, mark your calendars and get ready to stop by for a tasty treat as Chapin gears up to welcome its newest eatery!