BY JESSICA SMITH
Staff Writer

PHOTOSBY SCOTT PILLING staff Bob Petote, who recently opened Bob's Mill Pond Deli in Milltown after many years working in various local restaurants, prepares a sub for a customer. Bob and Beryl Petote came back to Milltown after 20 years, and it is like they never left.

The husband and wife team opened Bob's Mill Pond Deli last month, and it has already become a thriving, community mecca.

"We're doing great," Beryl said. "We did well from day one, and I think a lot of it is because my husband has a tremendous following."

Bob has been cooking in various food establishments for 35 years, with stints in Monroe, Spotswood and East Brunswick, among other locales. The couple has owned delis in both East Brunswick and Carteret. His career began back in junior high school.

"My father used to have me working in his place every day after school, and I've been doing it since," Bob said.

Most recently, Bob spent eight years working in the deli at Pierre's in South Brunswick. After buying a home in Milltown last year with their daughter, Erica, 20, and cat in tow, the Petotes decided to set up shop in the town they know and love.

Beryl Petote serves a customer. "The first chance we got to buy a house, I said, 'Let's go back to Milltown,'" Beryl said. "I'm from New York originally, so a town like Milltown is absolutely great. It's wonderful here."

Bob agreed, saying the community-oriented nature of the town is what he likes best. Due to the small-town feel, Bob said, he has quickly made friends, and is often visited by those he has known for years.

Part of what makes the deli special to Milltowners is what Bob refers to as the "Milltown Sports Hall of Fame." When he took the place over, there were old photographs on the wall of people who grew up in Milltown, and their various sports achievements. Bob said it adds to the cozy, small-town atmosphere.

Many from local businesses take advantage of the local delivery service offered to save precious minutes during lunch hour. Early birds flock there for breakfast, whether taking it to go, or grabbing one of the tables at the deli to relax and chat with friends.

Customers can choose from an array of hot and cold specialties including selections from the "chicken coop," which is a variety of grilled chicken breast sandwiches. Choices include garlic, lemon pepper, and Cajun, to name a few.

Tuesdays are busy for Bob and his staff.

"We've been trying to keep a Milltown tradition alive," Bob said.

Years ago, a luncheonette called Corazzo's used to have weekly chili dog days. Bob has brought the specialty back, selling about 100 chili dogs every Tuesday.

Perhaps sparking a new tradition are "Fresh Fish Fridays," which the Petotes said are already a hit. Among the choices each week are fresh flounder sandwiches hand-breaded by Bob himself, along with other seafood delicacies including both New England and Manhattan clam chowder.

Bob said his customers know and appreciate the difference between frozen fish and what he serves, which is always fresh from the water. Apparently, his patrons also appreciate the fact that everything served at the Mill Pond Deli is homemade by Bob.

According to Beryl, customers often marvel over the cleanliness of the place. She said Bob has always been a stickler for hygiene, and their business sparkles as a result.

For those who might otherwise shy away from delis because of dietary concerns, Bob's offers salads and other choices for health- and waistline-conscious customers.

"We try to do some healthier things aside from the old cheese steaks and burgers," Bob said.

Though Bob does all the cooking, Beryl plays a part in the success of the business, too.

During off-times from her clerical work, Beryl takes care of advertising as well as producing fliers of specials and menus.

"We sort of complement each other," Beryl said. "He's the talent. Without him, there wouldn't be a place like this."

Working collaboratively has worked well for Bob and Beryl, who celebrated their 22nd wedding anniversary Friday.

Beryl also credited the deli's success to their five staff members, whom she lavished with praise.

"Without them, we couldn't do it on a daily basis," Beryl said.

Bob's Mill Pond Deli is located at 28 South Main St. Hours of operation are 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, and 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday. The deli is closed on Sundays.