Inspired by the nostalgic longings of childhood, Zayante Creek Market and Deli has been Jamie Forrest’s passion project since she took it over three years ago. A chef for more than 30 years, her resume includes time in four different Michelin-star restaurants as well as partnering in opening several places across the country. Eventually wanting something all her own, when she and her husband moved here, she came across the location and fell in love with its historical provenance (formerly the Zayante post office/train post) and proximity to where she lived, allowing her the privilege and honor to support her own community.
Forrest says her spot has old town country store vibes with vintage eclectic Americana décor—“a little bit of everything and a lot of nothing.” Homemade daily specials complement classic deli offerings like a “French dip on crack” Italian roast beef sandwich and other between-bread bests include a pulled pork sandwich with dad’s homemade barbecue sauce, pickled red onion and dill pickles, and the grilled Zesty Zayante with spicy mayo, salami, pepper jack cheese, pepperoncini and jalapeño. Rotating meaty spaghettis are another popular offering along with classic sides like mac-n-cheese, pasta salads and deviled eggs.
Tell me your business origin story.
JAMIE FORREST: It goes back to being a kid in rural Georgia. We didn’t have much money so we would take Sunday drives in the country and find these little knick-knack stores and delis. What I’m trying to do here is emulate those special childhood memories and revive that feeling of being welcomed and acknowledged. As an adult moving into big cities, I lost that feeling. And now living here in the country again, it feels like I’m back where I am supposed to be, returning to where my heart is and my roots are. Sitting on our store’s porch and looking out over the mountains is the most at peace I’ve ever been.
Where did you get your passion for food?
As a foster kid growing up and being hungry. I grew up around a lot of processed low-end food, and I wanted to know what good food was, so I started working in restaurants in high school and became a chef through the school of hard knocks. Now here I am, providing really good food that’s affordable for my community.
9210 E. Zayante Rd, Felton, 831-335-2542
