The Borough Business Spotlight is on Merchantville's Antiques and Salvage this month, owned by Michael and Jaclyn Ricci. He, a mechanic by trade and antiques lover, she, a promoter of downtown businesses and the the Green Team. Michael's family has deep roots in Merchantville - over 100 years. He carries vintage electronics, salvaged pieces, furniture, kitchen housewares, vintage and antique lamps, replacement pieces, chandeliers, desk, floor, pendant, and ceiling lighting. And, as a bonus, he can repair any broken lighting. Often a destination shop for day trippers from as far away as Massachusetts the store also has a loyal base of residents and neighbors. Stop in for a visit: Tuesday and Thursday from 10:00 a.m.- 6:00 p.m.; Wednesday 1:00-7:00 p.m.; Friday 10:00 a.m.- 4:00 p.m. and, Saturday 9:00 a.m.- 1:00 p.m.

Merchantville welcomed the opening of two new restaurants this week. Robertito’s Cuisine, offering a Puerto Rican and Creole fusion menu, opened its doors in the restaurant space at 177 South Center Street on the circle in Merchantville. This quaint "cocina criolla" eatery is open Tuesdays - Saturday from 12:00 - 7:00 p.m. and is another wonderful addition to the diverse medley of cafe's and restaurants in our little borough. And, if you're longing for a taste of Mesoamerican fare check out Avocado Fiesta Mexican Grill & Bakery where three business associates, Rosa Mora, Alfredo Ramírez, and Delia Leana, make familiar specialties, with vegetarian options, and yummy pastries. So, if a delicious quesadilla topped with salsa and queso fresco is in your dreams you can realize it at 134 East Park Avenue, right across from Bryson's. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner they are open 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday and7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Friday through Sunday.

Aunt Charlotte's Candies is ready and Valentines Day will be here before you know it. Merchantville's historic candy and gift shop, located at 5 West Maple Avenue, promises a "Delight In Every Bite!" For over 100 years the Oakford family has created unique chocolates and many other delicious treats for our sweethearts and their sales girls will take great care of you. Shopping hours are Monday through Thursday from 9:30 to 5:30, Friday from 9:30 to 6:00 and Saturday from 9:30 to 5:30. Aunt Charlotte's offers curbside pick up or can ship a Valentine treat to anyone you wish! Come early and miss the crowds!

We are happy to announce that Movement 4 Wellness Physical Therapy is now open to the Merchantville community and surrounding towns. They are located at 10 E Chestnut Avenue in Unit #2 - behind the Station Coffee. Founder, Dr. Ernesto Mendez, is a licensed Physical Therapist and Orthopedic Specialist with a focus on pain science, pain management, injury recovery, surgical rehab, corrective exercise, athletic, military and occupational performance. He provides fully personalized treatment plans and 1:1 care during each one of your in-person or virtual sessions. His goal is to help you move better, get stronger, and enjoy life pain-free. At this time, Movement 4 Wellness Physical Therapy is a cash-based practice which allows them to serve all patients, including patients without current health insurance. If you do have health insurance, your expenses might be reimbursable through your out-of-network benefits. Questions? Call us at(856)-434-7755 or email us: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

Imagine your neighborhood or city without any of its small, local businesses. Coffee shops, hair and nail salons, corner stores, boutique clothing stores, consignment shops, restaurants, bars, craft shops, markets, antique and repair shops, laundromats, liquor shops, gift shops, pet stores, and more – all gone. The pandemic is devastating small business and this could mean closing the businesses they’ve sacrificed so much to build. But, you can help. When we lift up a small business, we lift up a community. Studies show that 48% of small business purchases are recirculated locally, compared to only 14% by chain stores. Every dollar you spend could help save a small business. Please shop from Merchantville's small businesses. Small businesses off better customer service and give back to our community. Many offer online and in-store options, take-out and gift cards, and most ship nationally. There’s something for everyone!