Stoke is a deli for the modern era. And as most folks in Pelham, Ont., likely know, it has also become one of Niagara’s most desirable pantry shops. Chef Jess Marshall and her wife Cait Bermuhler — who was born and raised in Pelham — first met while working in the U.K., then spent a decade travelling the world before moving to the Niagara region. They opened their first restaurant — a pop-up in St. Catharines in 2018 — followed by a very successful stint inside De La Terre Bakery in the same city. The couple, who make their own bread, pickles and condiments in-house and work with local farmers to source fresh seasonal ingredients, moved into the current brick-and-mortar location in Fonthill in late 2024. Stoke Deli Bar is now home to their delicious fare — including their line of hot sauces, pickles and pantry staples, called Stoke at Home — at the corner of Highway 20 and Pelham St. And expect more than just lunch; sandwiches such as the chicken shawarma — stacked with chili aioli, pickles, organic greens and pepperoncini — have turned this duo from global travellers into local culinary icons. –Sean Deasy