Craig and Fredda Pohl have traded impressive careers in the culinary field at sophisticated, top notch country clubs, for ownership of a Sarasota neighborhood deli and market, Nellie's Deli Market and Catering.

Though they are retaining the downhome, friendly, atmosphere and family fare, the catering division offers "Simple or Elegant" cuisine specializing in Cocktail Parties, Dinners, Weddings and Receptions.

Craig, who has directed food preparation for such celebrities as Pavarotti, Van Cliburn, Perry Como, Danny Thomas and Leontine Price, is thoroughly enjoying running Nellie's. "I'm really enjoying the business, and love all the friendly people we meet on a daily basis," he said.

Backgrounds
Craig's impressive background in the culinary field includes 13 years with Club Corporation of America, Dallas, Texas, as corporate executive chef, overseeing the food operation of 50 clubs throughout the United States. He spent three years at Ballenisles Country Club of J.D.M., Palm Beach Gardens, as operational food and beverage director of Palm Aire development, including the world-renowned Palm Aire Spa. He owned the Double Barrel Restaurant near Dallas, TX for five years and has directed prestigious La Chaine des Rotisseurs and Tastevin formal dinners.

Craig, who grew up in a family restaurant hotel business (Midwood Hotel in Locksheldrake, NY), officially began his career at the five-star Tuscany Hotel in New York City as a working chef. He earned two degrees at City University, NY in hotel/restaurant management and the culinary field.

Craig and Fredda Pohl

Fredda's equally notable experience includes 8 1/2 years with the Club Corp. of America at Inverrary Country Club as director of sales for catering and special events, Lauderhill, FL and University Club of Caddo Parish in Shreveport, LA as director of catering. She was clubhouse manager of The Oaks Country Club of Palm Aire, F.P.A. Corp. in Pompano Beach, FL.

As a catering specialist, Fredda has received such prestigious awards as Club Corporation of America's President's Strawberry Pin—1987, Club Corporation of America Southeast Region's "Social Secretary of the Year—1988," the National Kidney Foundation's Galleria Chocolate Fantasy "Most Sinful Desert Award—1988" and the Lauderhill EXPO—1988 Award. A graduate of Northeast Louisiana University with a B.S. degree in Institutional Management, she was also selected by C.C.A. on a nation-wide basis to assist in corporate development of Catering Sales Training Guidelines.

The Pohls plan to continue the tradition of Nellie's Deli, offering the best from their kitchen and to continue their great success.