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Downtown deli sees boost in sales
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Since taking over Plain Nuts Catering last October, owner Jim Williamson has expanded the business's offerings, opening a lunch deli and serving more corporate clients. As a result, business is booming.

"I put my twist on everything when I got here," said Williamson of the six-year-old business, which he took over from Christina Benton.

In May alone, the full-service catering firm located just off Covington's historic square fed more than 5,000 people, Williamson said.

Plain Nuts specializes in weddings, corporate events and special-occasion planning. According to Williamson, one of the business' most popular offerings is its Silver Basket Display Lunch. Priced at $9.75 each, the lunch includes a choice of deli sandwich or wrap, two sides, fruit, dessert and drinks and includes plates and utensils.

"Whatever menu item you're looking for, we can do it," Williamson said.

Plain Nuts also offers a variety of catering lunch specials, including a Mexican Fiesta, a Philly Station, a Salad Spread, a Southern Affair and a Soup Special, among others.

"We have a really good staff of cooks," Williamson said. "They (the clients) don't have to do anything but show up."

For a full list of Plain Nuts menu offerings - including wedding, cocktail buffet and elegant dinner options - visit www.plainnutscatering.com. Plain Nuts asks for at least 24 hours notice and a 10-person minimum for an order.

The Plain Nuts Deli, open during lunch hours only, offers daily specials and a seasonal soup of the day. A popular lunch special is the deli's box lunch, which comes with a deli sandwich, two sides and a drink for only $7. Hot melt, deli wrap and gourmet salad lunches are also available for the same price.

Sides include couscous, Greek pasta, creamy chicken pasta, plain garden salad, seasonal fresh fruit and chocolate iced brownies.

Even with the addition of the lunch deli to the business, Williamson and his staff of 12 have been able to maintain the business's food service inspection score of 100, which Williamson said the business has had for the last six years. Though business has been booming, Williamson said he doesn't want to move to a larger building.

"We have long outgrown this building, but I don't want to move," Williamson said. "I don't want to lose my spot on the Square."