Packing a picnic basket or stocking up for a barbecue shouldn’t be a hassle. But modern mega-marts can be crowded, understaffed and filled with unappealing, mass-produced provisions.

Stress-free summer celebrations begin with a trip to Sirna’s Market & Deli, the local hot spot for cookouts and classic cars.

“We get produce, meat and deli deliveries daily,” says Bryan Bennington, general manager of Sirna’s, a family-owned business founded in 1945 in Cleveland that moved to Aurora in 1978. “Produce is our big thing, with our mother company being the largest produce supplier in five states. We cut meat and chicken fresh daily and have a full-service deli with a focus on Boar’s Head products. We have direct buying power for meat, which leads to in-store sales. Most of our USDA choice beef is boneless. High turnover means you’re always getting fresh meat.”

Whether summer soirees call for sausage, burgers, ribs, macaroni salad, corn-onthe- cob or Ohio-grown tomatoes, Sirna’s
is certain to have it. They even make their macaroni salad, potato salad, cole slaw and other sides in-house.

“And if you want something we don’t normally stock, we can get it for you,” Bryan promises. “That includes specialty groceries, like olive oils or grains, or items from the wine and beer department. Call your lunchmeat order ahead and we’ll have it cut for you in 15 minutes. We also cater. Customers can pick up trays or prearrange local deliveries.”

Dedicated to showcasing locally grown produce, Sirna’s hosts a farmer’s market every Saturday from mid-June through September.

Close-in parking, neat aisles and friendly workers differentiate Sirna’s from other grocers. After three remodels, the market stands at approximately 5,500 square feet, the perfect size for getting in and out quickly.

The Sirna’s experience is about more than filling your fridge. New this year is “Car Cruisin’ Days,” held Wednesdays from 5:00 to 8:30 p.m. in the parking lot. (The store remains open.) Car enthusiasts park their collector autos and mingle while enjoying freshly grilled goodies (the menu rotates but often includes burgers, hot dogs, bratwursts or ribs) and a deejay playing classic tunes. A 50/50 raffle and other prizes round out the festivities.

Sirna’s is offering everyone—whether or not they attend Car Cruisin’ Days—the opportunity to win a soon-to be-released Dodge Dart.

“These cars aren’t in production and won’t be released until the end of July,” Bryan points out. “The Dart is a throwback to the muscle cars of the 1960s.”

Priced at $25 a ticket, or five for $100, proceeds will benefit the All-American Soap Box Derby. Only 3,000 tickets will be sold.
The winner will be drawn on September 5.

“Car Cruisin’ Days is a new tradition that’s getting rave reviews,” Bryan concludes. “People love the cars as much as they love our food, location and staff.”

Sirna’s Market & Deli is at 7303 Aurora Road, in Aurora. Hours are Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday, 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Wednesday, 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.; and Sunday, 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Call 330-562-5221 or visit the website at www.sirnasmarket.com.