Detroit Eastern Market

Melo Farms

Lynn and Melody Nye
Melo Farms
Yale, MI
www.melofarms.com

Shed 3-East Wing

A small husband and wife farm in Yale, Michigan committed to natural farming practices - including rotational grazing, grass-based animal husbandry and humane handling - and growing the absolute best-tasting premium pork.

We all have the opportunity to make a difference. Our dream was born when we decided to find an alternative to supporting an industry that uses terms like ‘unit' to describe a living sentient being. We chose pure breed Berkshire pigs to be a positive force in re-establishing this heritage breed.

Our mothers, probably like yours, told us not to play with our food when we were young. Now we lead a life where we play, pet, groom, tickle and laugh with our ‘food' every day. We have a passion for pork. It started at our own table and we'd like to share it with yours.

Find them in east wing of Shed 3....every Saturday!!!

www.melofarms.com

Customer Profile

Denise Wright


Denise Wright can't just pick one things she loves about Eastern Market, but exclaims she loves "everything!" She specifically notes the best parts of the Market are the atmosphere, unique farmers, camaraderie, and the opportunity to make new acquaintances.


Denise and her husband come to the Market at least two times a month, and love to visit Esther for her corn and Byron for his citrus. Additional stops include R. Hirt, Eastern Market Seafood, Cost Plus Wine, and Gratiot Central Market. She says they really miss Rafal Spice Company, and that sometimes they used to make a special trip to the Market just for the spices sold there.


"Eastern Market is phenomenal," says Denise when asked why she prefers to shop there. She also enjoys the environment at Eastern Market much better than a traditional grocery store, and "you get better deals."

Business Profile

Roma Cafe
3401 Via Roma (Riopelle)
Detroit, MI 48207
Corner of Erskine and Riopelle
313.831.5940
www.romacafe.com

The Marazza family opened their doors to Eastern Market farmers in February of 1890. It began as a boarding house, with each guest's stay including a warm meal. Mrs. Marazza's reputation as a fine cook spread quickly throughout the Eastern Market area. At the urging of her fans, she expanded service and opened her restaurant, the Roma Cafe.

In 1918, the business was sold to Mr. John Battaglia and Mr. Morris Sossi. As they began their partnership an addition was put on the building, which still exists in its original condition to this day. Within one year John Battaglia died and Morris Sossi bought out his widow and became the sole owner of the Roma Cafe.

Morris Sossi's nephew, Hector Sossi, began working as a busboy for his uncle in 1940. In the early 1950's Morris returned to his native Italy and left the management to his Hector. Hector Sossi carried on the family tradition and bought out Morris in 1965 to become the fourth owner of the Roma Cafe.

Mr. Sossi remains at the helm at Roma's as a third generation family member owner. His daughter, Janet Sossi Belcoure, currently handles the management of this historic Italian eatery.

Roma Cafe and its history still reside at their original 1888 location, serving up Italian favorites to a whole new generation of Detroiters. The menu includes classic dishes including gnocchi, homemade ravioli Genovese, polenta, veal Parmigiana, baked cannelloni, and many more. They are open Monday- Friday from 11 am - 10 pm, Saturdays from 11 am - 11 pm, and are closed on Sundays.