Vegan Deli Takes Over Defunct Butcher Shop in Cincinnati

This weekend, vegan deli Harmony Plant Fare opened inside of Cincinnati, OH’s historic Findlay Market, an indoor and outdoor public market that has been in operation since 1852. The new deli took over the space left vacant by 45-year-old butcher shop Bender Meats. Harmony initially operated as a pop-up in the region before owners Bridget Gunsiorowski and Alex Nager moved into the brick-and-mortar space inside the market. Inspired by Gunsiorowski’s childhood memories in New York City, Harmony sells housemade vegan meats and cheeses by the pound, knishes, and a selection of hot and cold sandwiches such as the Italian (stuffed with pepperoni, ham, and provolone cheese); Chickpea Tu-No (made on local 16 Bricks Sourdough bread); and Buffalo Chicken Ranch (made with soy curls). The shop offers party platters, charcuterie boards, and Thanksgiving Holiday meals (which are now available for pre-order). The deli also offers vegan products made by other businesses, including vegan sweets from Chubby Bunny Bakery, along with plant-based staples such as non-dairy milk, soy curls, bouillon cubes, soups, and candy bars. Harmony is currently in a soft-opening stage and the owners expect to become a fully operational, NYC-inspired deli in 2020.