Rick comes from a long line of food entrepreneurs. His maternal great-grandfather immigrated from Naples, Italy, in 1922 and opened an Italian Bakery in Jersey City, New Jersey. Over the years, family offerings included butcher shops, bakeries, seafood markets, and delis through New Jersey and New York State. Rick started cooking when he was 8 years old, but chose a different path as an adult, although he always found himself during his spare time helping out in the family businesses. Rick worked for many years as VP of facilities for a large university. During COVID, he left that career and decided to go back to his roots, first opening a small café, then adding a pizzeria, and then finally opening an Italian Deli and Specialty shop. Later, Phyllis joined Rick in running their three businesses. Phyllis had worked as a medical assistant for 30 years, but the sound of running her own small business and serving great food to wonderful customers hit home for her, and she was happy to be a part of it. Through the years, many of Phyllis and Rick’s children have worked in the family business during their breaks from college. Their businesses are truly family operated. Nonna, AKA Angela, even comes into the deli three times a week to make her famous hand-rolled meatballs. Produce is locally sourced and delivered twice a week to Nonna’s. Some bread and specialty items are brought in from long-time cherished New York friends and family who own bakeries: this is traditional New York stuff. Phyllis bakes pies and pastries in-house, as well. Phyllis also takes advanced orders for homemade pierogi, taking her back to her Polish heritage. Phyllis’ family owned and operated a Polish catering business in Massachusetts. The deli also offers catering services with everything you could imagine for a big party or event.
Welcome to Summerville, Nonna’s Olde World Italian Deli
Member Submission • July 15, 2025
You’ll find a variety of cold and hot sandwiches, salads, burgers, and delicious entrees and desserts.
If you are heading into downtown Summerville anytime soon, make sure you show up hungry. Then make a stop into Nonna’s Olde World Italian Deli at 129 South Main Street, right in the heart of town, for some great Italian eats with a New York flair. At Nonna’s you’ll find Thumann’s deli meats that are sliced to order, they make their own mozzarella every morning, you’ll find cold and hot sandwiches, salads, and burgers. Their famous shaved ribeye cheesesteak sandwiches with Cooper white American cheese are served on Amoroso bread products, direct from Philly, reminiscent of Jersey
Shore boardwalk and South Philly sandwiches. You’ll also find delicious entrees and desserts. Nonna’s serves Arancini (rice balls), imported olives and Italian meats, Manhattan Special soda, other Italian imported beverages, freshly made Focaccia along with breads and rolls and all kinds of scrumptious desserts. If you are missing the taste and atmosphere of an olde world NY/NJ deli, Nonna’s is the place to be. All orders are made fresh with love, so it might take a few extra minutes, but it’s well worth the wait.
Like so many others, Rick and Phyllis Riccio made plans to move to Summerville to retire, loving the weather, friendly vibe and history. They had spent their lives in New York and New Jersey, with a long family history in the restaurant industry. Summerville was supposed to be their retirement, or so they thought. As they waited for their new home to be built, Rick and Phyllis started pondering opening a smaller version of their business up North, a high-quality, authentic NY/NJ deli and specialty shop, which Rick really thought was missing from the amazing food scene in Summerville. With that, Nonna’s was born. Nonna’s Olde World Italian Deli was named in honor of Rick’s mother, Angela, who just turned 83 and moved to Summerville with them. The deli opened in April and is open from 10 AM – 6 PM, Monday through Saturday. They intentionally close at 6 to encourage residents to frequent the sit-down restaurants for dinner in town. They save Sundays for God and family and give their employees the opportunity to do the same.
While Phyllis runs the front of the house operations, along with their staff, and helps with some of the administrative duties, Rick can be found mostly in the back of the house, running the kitchen, working with the kitchen staff and sharing in the administrative day to day of running a business.
Rick and Phyllis are excited to be contributing to the food vibe in Summerville and are grateful for all their customers, both new and the regulars. Stop in and say hello, grab some food and experience Nonna’s for yourself. You will be glad you did.
As Phase 1 nears completion, the $47 million development brings thoughtful infill development, entrepreneurial opportunities, and a walkable experience to the heart of Summerville.
Now Accepting Applications & Nominations for 2026 Chamber Awards
Woman-owned business selected from more than 12,000 applicants nationwide for its resilience, innovation and commitment to workforce development SUMMERVILLE, S.C. — A Summerville small business is earning national recognition for its resilience, innovation and commitment to developing the next generation of skilled workers. Sew Fabulous LLC, a woman-owned alterations, bridal and embroidery business, has been named one of America's Top 100 Small Businesses through the U.S. Chamber of Commerce's prestigious 2026 CO—100 program. Selected from more than 12,000 applicants nationwide, Sew Fabulous is being recognized as a 2026 Champions of Adaptability honoree , a distinction celebrating businesses that have demonstrated exceptional resilience, determination and innovative problem-solving in overcoming challenges. Founded in 2015 by British-born entrepreneur and military veteran Angela Humphries, Sew Fabulous has grown from a small alterations operation in her home into a thriving business offering everyday tailoring, bridal and formalwear alterations, corporate embroidery, uniform services and custom branding solutions. A defining part of Sew Fabulous's success has been its investment in workforce development and preserving the skilled trade of sewing. Recognizing a growing shortage of experienced sewing professionals, Humphries developed the curricula for two U.S. Department of Labor Registered Apprenticeship programs, creating structured career pathways for individuals interested in professional sewing and alterations. To date, the company has supported 11 apprentices through its training initiatives, including five who successfully graduated in 2026. The company also established Sew Fabulous Academy, an initiative designed to expand access to sewing education, strengthen technical skills and introduce new generations to career opportunities in the industry. Rather than relying solely on an increasingly limited pool of experienced workers, Humphries has made workforce development a central component of the company's long-term growth strategy. Humphries will travel to Washington, D.C., in October to participate in the U.S. Chamber of Commerce's CO—100 celebrations alongside fellow entrepreneurs and business leaders from across the country. About Sew Fabulous LLC Founded in 2015, Sew Fabulous LLC is an award-winning, woman-owned business headquartered in Summerville, South Carolina. The company specializes in everyday alterations, bridal and formalwear alterations, corporate embroidery, uniforms and branded apparel. Through its two U.S. Department of Labor Registered Apprenticeship programs and Sew Fabulous Academy, Sew Fabulous is committed to preserving skilled trades, developing talented professionals and creating meaningful career opportunities. The company has earned more than 1,300 five-star Google reviews and numerous business recognitions. About Angela Humphries Beyond her business accomplishments, Humphries has demonstrated an enduring commitment to serving her community. Humphries was also honored with the Community Service Award by Summerville Chief of Police Doug Wright. She was one of the first two civilians to receive the award, recognizing her dedication to serving and strengthening the local community. Her community involvement includes supporting individuals experiencing hardship, contributing to charitable initiatives, and working alongside organizations dedicated to strengthening the local community. For Humphries, business success is measured not only through growth and profitability but also through the opportunities created for others and the positive impact a company can have on its community.
Summerville S.C.- Dorchester Habitat for Humanity is grateful to St. Paul’s Anglican Church for their generous $1,000 donation in support of the organization’s Building the American Dream initiative. This contribution will help Dorchester Habitat continue its mission of building safe, affordable homes for families in Dorchester County. Through the Building the American Dream initiative, the organization is expanding homeownership opportunities and helping local families create a stronger foundation for their futures. “We are incredibly grateful to St. Paul’s for its generosity and commitment to our community,” said Erin Roach, Director of Development and Marketing. “Support from local churches and community partners move our mission forward and bring us one step closer to a future where more families have a safe, affordable place to call home.” Dorchester Habitat partners with qualifying families to achieve homeownership through home construction, financial education, and a 30-year, zero-interest mortgage. Homebuyers also contribute at least 425 hours of sweat-equity, working alongside volunteers and staff to help build homes. The organization’s Building the American Dream initiative reflects its continued commitment to transforming Dorchester County one home at a time. Through the generosity of churches, businesses, individuals, and volunteers, Dorchester Habitat is creating lasting opportunities for families to establish stability, build equity, and pursue brighter futures. Learn more about Dorchester Habitat at www.dorchesterhabitat.org
SUMMERVILLE, S.C. — 10/13/2026 — As it enters the final year of its current three-year strategic plan, the Greater Summerville/Dorchester Chamber of Commerce is already looking ahead. Chamber leadership, board members, staff, and stakeholders recently convened for a comprehensive planning session to map out the organization's vision and priorities for the next three years. Facilitated by Claire Louder of Louder Nonprofit Strategies, the session was designed to align the Chamber’s future trajectory with the region's explosive growth and evolving community needs. To ensure alignment with the region, the day kicked off with vital insights. Attendees heard directly from representatives of the Town of Summerville, Dorchester County, and Berkeley County regarding their current municipal and county-wide plans, ensuring the Chamber’s roadmap complements ongoing local government initiatives. Discussions were also guided by the goals of Envision 2047, keeping key components at the forefront. The planning conversation heavily emphasized: Thoughtful planning and smart growth Housing accessibility and variety Vibrant gateways and distinctive places Quality economic growth Fostering a robust entrepreneurial culture Top-tier education “We were very intentional about incorporating ENVISION 2047 as a guiding tool for our planning as it strategically parallels with what the business community and our members value and feel is important to achieve long-term success," said Rita Berry, President and CEO of the Greater Summerville/Dorchester Chamber of Commerce. In addition to regional collaboration and big-picture visioning, the session focused inward on member value. Leadership closely analyzed feedback and data from the Chamber’s most recent membership survey, brainstorming innovative ideas and actionable plans to enhance membership benefits and elevate programs for local businesses. More details regarding the official launch and specific pillars of the Summerville Chamber’s next strategic plan will be announced in the coming months. About the Greater Summerville Dorchester County Chamber of Commerce The Greater Summerville/Dorchester County Chamber of Commerce is a five-star accredited chamber dedicated to advancing economic prosperity through business advocacy, leadership development, workforce initiatives, and meaningful member engagement. Serving businesses of every size and industry, the Chamber works to create a stronger community throughout Summerville and Dorchester County. About Envision 2047 ENVISION 2047 is a long-term community vision and strategic action plan developed to guide the future of Summerville and Dorchester County over the next 20 years and beyond. Led by the Greater Summerville/Dorchester County Chamber Foundation, in partnership with Dorchester County and the Town of Summerville, along with a steering committee of business and community leaders, the initiative reflects a unified commitment to thoughtful, sustainable growth.
RIDGEVILLE, S.C. - Knight’s Companies is pleased to announce the rebranding and name change of Murray Mines to Knight’s Materials, effective immediately. The name change reflects the company’s continued growth in the construction materials industry and brings the operation under the Knight’s Companies brand. Knight’s Materials will continue to provide quality sand and other construction material products to customers throughout the region, with the same commitment to service, quality, and reliability that customers have come to expect. “We’re excited to officially bring Knight’s Materials into the Knight’s Companies family,” said Pete Knight, President and CEO of Knight’s Companies. “This is a natural next step as we continue to grow our materials business and expand the products and services we can provide to our customers and partners.” Customers can expect a seamless transition, with existing operations, relationships, and service continuing under the new Knight’s Materials name. Knight’s Materials is part of Knight’s Companies, a South Carolina-based construction materials and services company serving customers throughout the Southeast. Visit knightscompanies.com for more info on other products and services.
Investment in cardiothoracic and vascular surgery strengthens comprehensive cardiovascular care and expands access for Lowcountry patients
SUMMERVILLE, S.C. - Local custom residential builder Ragland Homes has been named a recipient of the 2026 "Builder of Integrity" Award by Quality Builders Warranty (QBW). This marks the second time the Summerville-based home builder has earned the prestigious national honor, reinforcing its reputation for technical excellence, financial stability, and steadfast commitment to client trust across the Lowcountry. The Builder of Integrity Award is an exclusive recognition presented to a selective group of residential builders nationwide. Award recipients undergo a rigorous screening and ongoing performance review process evaluating technical skill, ethical business practice, craftsmanship, and customer service. "Building a custom home is one of the most significant investments a family will make and earning the trust of our clients is at the center of everything we do," said Bryan Ragland. "Receiving the Builder of Integrity Award for a second time validates our team's daily commitment to transparent communication, superior craftsmanship, and doing things right". This national recognition follows a period of strong local support for Ragland Homes, which was also voted Best Home Builder by readers of the Summerville Journal Scene for three years in a row. To learn more about Ragland Homes visit Raglandhomes.com or contact the team at (843) 284.3133. For details regarding the Quality Builders Warranty Builder of Integrity program, visit www.qbwc.com/BOI About Ragland Homes Founded in 2018, Ragland Homes is a premier custom home builder, led by Certified Master Builder Bryan Ragland based in Summerville, South Carolina. Serving clients throughout the Lowcountry, Ragland Homes specializes in custom home construction, build-on-your-lot projects, and personalized design solutions built on a foundation of integrity, quality, and transparency. About Quality Builders Warranty Corporation Quality Builders Warranty Corporation (QBW) is the nation’s premier 10-year new home warranty program. Operating since 1985, QBW screens builders nationwide to ensure members demonstrate superior craftsmanship, technical excellence, and financial integrity, providing structural warranties backed by Liberty Mutual.
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