Erik’s DeliCafé Celebrates 50 Years Surprise Award Presented at Chamber Gala

At last month’s Community Awards Gala, the Scotts Valley Chamber surprised Erik Johnson with a special award, honoring him and Erik’s DeliCafé for their 50 years of serving Scotts Valley.

In September 1973, Erik Johnson started his first Erik’s DeliCafé in Scotts Valley. Prior to this, Johnson ventured into real estate after having worked as a security officer, an accountant, a cook, and food server. As it became clear that he was not suited to be a realtor, Johnson began to have ambitions of opening his own business.

After making unsuccessful bids on a health food store, ice cream shop and doughnut shop, Johnson purchased a 600 square foot location in Scotts Valley for $429. Borrowing the amount from his father, Johnson signed a note to cover equipment costs and took over the lease of the former Tartan Bakery. In the following year the neighboring TV store closed, and Johnson was able to expand Erik’s DeliCafé to 1800 square feet.

With the success of the first Erik’s in Scotts Valley, Johnson was then ready to take the next step in expanding Erik’s first in Santa Cruz County, then continuing outside the County. Erik’s DeliCafé now has locations throughout the Bay Area as well as locations in Roseville and a newly opened location in Folsom.

Although there have been some changes since Erik’s first opened in Scott’s Valley in 1973, what hasn’t changed and never will is their commitment to their customers. The pledge of a warm and inviting atmosphere, quality food served fast with friendly service is practiced in the stores every day.

Sandwiches are made with highquality meats, savory cheeses, and fresh produce. Slow-simmered and handcrafted soups, made to order fresh salads, and wonderful bakery goods are made from scratch with Johnson’s family’s recipes.

They invite you to bring friends and family to share in the hospitality and goodness of Erik’s DeliCafé.