The Pinecone Pantry Opening Soon in Grayson’s Railyard
Guests can expect sandwiches made with Boar’s Head meats, local bread, and a curated retail section of candles, books, and gifts.
GRAYSON, GA — The Pinecone Pantry, owned by John and Colleen D’Esposito, is expected to open in The Railyard at 412 Grayson Pkwy, Grayson, GA 30017. John D’Esposito told Business Debut the team is planning a soft opening in early November, followed by a grand opening toward the end of the month.
What to Expect
The Pinecone Pantry will combine a café-style sandwich shop with a retail boutique. The menu will feature classic sandwiches including roast beef, turkey, and chicken salad, as well as paninis made with Boar’s Head meats and fresh bread from a local Georgia bakery. Guests can also enjoy boba tea alongside their meals.
Inside, customers will find a small selection of tables, with additional outdoor seating on a covered canopy equipped with ceiling fans and heaters. The space will also include a retail section offering home décor, candles, books, and gifts.
Menu and Vision
“We wanted to open something that the area was missing, a place for fresh, made-to-order sandwiches and a warm atmosphere,” D’Esposito told Business Debut. “While you wait for your food, you can browse the shop for unique home items and gifts.”
The owners describe The Pinecone Pantry as fast casual, with orders placed at the counter and staff available to assist guests. D’Esposito said the space’s historic charm, with exposed brick and rafter ceilings, inspired them to create a concept that reflects Grayson’s Americana roots.
Location and Setting
The Pinecone Pantry is located in The Railyard, a mixed-use development in the heart of Grayson that features restaurants, retail, and gathering spaces. The Railyard was designed as a community hub with both new construction and renovated historic buildings. The Pinecone Pantry occupies one of the property’s oldest structures, which D’Esposito said “has as much character as the town itself.”
The couple has embraced that heritage, incorporating design elements that highlight the building’s exposed brick and original framework to create a cozy setting that ties the past to the present.
Ownership and Background
John and Colleen D’Esposito bring a mix of retail, business, and creative experience to The Pinecone Pantry. The couple, who met while working in New York’s retail industry, previously operated a café in downtown Atlanta before deciding to expand into a larger community-focused concept.
Colleen’s background includes management roles with major retailers such as Bloomingdale’s and Lord & Taylor, as well as an artistic eye for design and merchandising. John, who describes himself as more hands-on and analytical, oversees operations and logistics. Together, they have built the concept to reflect both of their strengths, pairing quality food with a thoughtfully designed retail experience.
The D’Espositos, who have lived in the Atlanta area for nearly a decade, said they were drawn to Gwinnett County for its diversity and community spirit. “We have been met with nothing but love here,” John told Business Debut. “This is home now, and we want to build something that brings people together.”
Opening Timeline
A soft opening is planned for the first or second week of November, with a grand opening by late November ahead of the holiday season.
Hours
Open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. Closed Sundays.
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