The Washington, D.C.-based sandwich chain Capo Deli had hoped to have its new Annapolis store open by the end of last year, but a lack of permits has prevented that from happening.
A “stop work” order issued by the City of Annapolis in early October is to blame, which cites modifications being made inside the building without the proper permits.
Owner Brian Vasile took responsibility for the oversight, saying the business is in the process of getting the permits it needs.
“There’s a whole bunch of items that need to be taken care of,” Vasile said. “Obviously, the holidays slow things down. You need architectural drawings, that takes time. So, it normally takes four to six weeks for [to get Planning and Zoning department] comments back, and then you kind of go back and forth with making corrections, and resubmitting, and things like that. So, you know, everyone’s doing the best that they can.”
The location, 139 Main St., used to be home to Jimmy John’s, another deli chain. Vasile said the changes they plan to make to the interior are cosmetic and involve a change of branding.
Given the delays, Vasile said he can’t commit to a new opening date quite yet. He’s hoping to complete the permitting process by Valentine’s Day and potentially open by St. Patrick’s Day. His goal is to be up and running by the end of the General Assembly session to take advantage of the catering opportunities that time of year brings.
Despite the hiccups, Vasile is still looking forward to opening in Annapolis.
“You know, after living [and] working in the D.C. area for so long, and then to finally get an opportunity to live out in Anne Arundel County, and specifically Annapolis … I just love it there,” said Vasile, who relocated to Anne Arundel County in 2019. “Kind of reminds me [of] home. I’m from upstate New York, and [Annapolis has] that homey-hometown feeling, so I’m super excited to work there.”
According to City of Annapolis records, a re-inspection of the property is set to take place Jan. 31.
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