You might not be able to step inside The Federal Store these days, but that isn't affecting business.
The popular Mount Pleasant destination, located at Quebec Street and 10th Avenue, has found several ways to adapt during the pandemic.
The historic building has served the neighbourhood for decades, beginning as a bakery in the early 1920s.
Over the years it has transformed to suit the changing times, evolving from a simple convenience store in the 1960s into a local grocer, bakery, and café.
Today The Federal Store provides locally sourced food products, an assortment of baked goods and sandwiches (made in-house), and, of course, lots of coffee.
Although the inside of the store is still temporarily closed to shoppers, due to COVID-19 health protocols, walk-up door service is available for pick-up. Groceries can also be ordered online for pick-up or delivery.
A newly-constructed outdoor patio even provides a spot for people to sit and enjoy a cup of joe or slice of cake.
Co-owner Christopher Allen looks forward to eventually welcoming customers back inside.
"Really looking forward to having people back in the store. It might be a slightly different format than it was before, of course. We're gonna figure something out."
Allen also appreciates the community support during the past year.
"We wouldn't have the door open right now if the neighbourhood hadn't been behind us in the way that they have; it's really meant a lot."
