Fresh Produce and a Latte to Go

In addition to fresh coffee, Burlingame residents will soon have a new early-morning destination for fresh produce.

Burlingame Produce, a new business venture by John Saba, will open this fall in a 2,700-square-foot space at 226 Lorton Av. Saba said he has "deep roots" in Burlingame.  He is a reserve Burlingame policeman and owns Boulevard Café in Daly City. The new store will sell both organic and non-organic produce, as well as fresh breads, cheeses, soy products and bulk teas.

Burlingame Produce plans on running an early morning daily delivery schedule to bring its customers the freshest produce possible.  Saba will also donate unsellable food to local charities and food banks.  He is partnering with Blue Bottle Coffee, which will run the store's coffee bar and offer outside seating with wireless internet.

Saba said he understands the value of a solid business plan.

"We are looking beyond the short-term, poor economic condition here to a recession-proof produce company," Saba said. "We are definitely selling to the Farmer's Market crowd, as our produce will mostly come fresh from local and regional farms."

In terms of customers, Burlingame Produce officials aim to provide something for everyone in Burlingame, whether residents are looking for daily produce or foods for a special occasion.

"We do not have a target customer;  we are a volume and price-driven market and welcome everyone," said Saba. "With Safeway under construction, our timing is awesome."

Saba plans to join the Chamber of Commerce and will open Burlingame Produce before Thanksgiving. Hours are 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. seven days a week.