‘Acton proper’ unfairly gets short shrift in West Acton commercial comparison
It’s the practical, hardworking (and diverse) small business owners and staff who preserve our town’s livability.
I love West Acton too, especially Walden Italian Kitchen and Twin Seafood, but the October 9 letter, “HDC values architecture above human stories” mischaracterizes Acton proper. Many businesses cater to everyday needs and do it well.
For my schedule, it’s Helen’s for Saturday breakfast and Sally Ann’s for midweek pastries (out of this world; get there early and they are still warm). Main Streets Market & Cafe, Caffè Nero, Haute Coffee, The Cheese Shop, Comella’s, and Acton Market should not be overlooked for an excellent variety of coffees, treats, and lunches. Vanderhoof Hardware has remarkable inventory for such a small space, and there is no home fix-it problem they can’t solve. Acton Bookshop curates an excellent selection of books. Priscilla Candy Shop will satisfy your sweet tooth.
On Thoreau Street, my coffee and lunch favorites are Dunkin’, New London Style Pizza, Acton Provisions, and Bedford Farms for ice cream (also out of this world). Across the tracks is Crosby’s Marketplace, if you’ll be eating in this week. Check out the excellent soup table, and the deli and meat counter for friendly service and a great selection. Pick up an Open Table bag to contribute at checkout.
Historically (and even today), Acton is known for its amusing utopians, but it’s the practical, hardworking (and diverse) small business owners and staff, together with police, fire, and public works, who preserve our town’s livability.
Mark Dobbins
Elsinore Street
