In 1997, Maggie started a small organic produce business on less than an acre of space near Greensburg, PA.  By focusing on the most exotic and heirloom varieties of produce, she quickly found interest from many city based four star chefs.  With the addition of a large greenhouse, this little business grew exponentially over the next few years.  Now, Maggie’s grows exclusively for Paragon-Monteverde Foods, sells seasonal produce in our own farm store and harvests enough to sustain our kitchen during the growing season.

It was inevitable that Maggie would create a restaurant of her own that would support her philosophy of a meat and dairy-free lifestyle.

In 2001, Maggie’s Mercantile in Stahlstown, PA. opened to a curious audience. In the heart of “meat and potatoes country”, it was sure to be a challenge.  Oddly enough, the Stahlstown venture did very well. People were willing to drive from the city and jump off the turnpike to sample  the alternatives  our kitchen had to offer.  Clearly the market existed for these foods and it wasn’t long before our packaged meals  could be found in the deli cases of other establishments.

When a small space became available on Atwood Street in Oakland, Maggie decided to test the waters of expanding the business to the city. It was apparent that this style of restaurant would thrive in a larger demographic.  When the lease at Atwood Street ended, Maggie decided to find a larger more accessible location.  After a long search and long renovations, we are proud to open our new location at 300 South Craig Street in Oakland February 2008.