Originating
as an ice cream and candy shop on South Main Street, The Alcove
grew from a modest beginning as "Candyland."
Founders Fred Surlas and Peter J. Francis came to Mount Vernon
in 1911 from Youngstown, Ohio.
Sandwiches were added to the "Candyland" fountain menu in the
1920s. As the demand for quality food eventually outweighed the
demand for candy and ice cream, the "Alcove Room" was added.
Expansion again took place in 1937 when the present building was
constructed on the site of the original "Candyland." Because of
the growing fame of the "Alcove Room," the newly planned restaurant
adopted the name. |