By Eric Ranks on August 29, 2025
Meet Andrea Pantel of The Vegan Pantry: A Fresh Take on Plant-Based Living in Kenmore, NY
Walking into The Vegan Pantry in Kenmore, NY feels like walking into a community haven crafted with care. Owner Andrea Pantel opened the doors this year on April 5th, building the kind of space she had always imagined: a one-stop vegan grocery store that welcomes everyone, from seasoned vegans to curious newcomers. With her roots in the local area and a background shaped by over a decade at Trader Joe’s, Andrea turned her passion into purpose.
Andrea didn’t just want to create another grocery store; she wanted to provide something Kenmore truly needed. While many stores dabble in plant-based products, The Vegan Pantry is dedicated exclusively to vegan goods. It offers a robust selection: from fresh bread and pastries to pantry staples and even baby food. Recently, the shop has added vegan ice cream to the mix, making it a standout destination for families looking to indulge in treats that align with their values.
“We’re a true one-stop shop,” Andrea explains. “Most places don’t carry the range we do, and we’re always happy to bring in new items if our customers ask.”
The Vegan Pantry isn’t just about products, it’s about people. With a kid-friendly environment, including a play area and changing table, Andrea has intentionally made the store welcoming for young families. Her ideal customer? Anyone in their 20s or 30s, whether they live in an apartment or own a home, who values convenience, community, and compassionate living.
Andrea spent 12 years working at Trader Joe’s, gaining firsthand experience in what makes a store thrive. As her kids began college, she took business classes of her own and explored various paths before realizing her true calling. Having been vegetarian most of her life and turning vegan more recently, she combined her values and retail expertise to bring The Vegan Pantry to life.
“Kenmore has always been close to home,” she shares. “I live just a few miles down the road and I love the people here. It’s a community that supports each other.”
The store supports several initiatives, including Asha Farm Sanctuary and Lakewood Kitten Rescue. Andrea also recently partnered with Too Good To Go, a platform that helps reduce food waste by offering surprise bags at up to 70% off. To further reduce waste, The Vegan Pantry also donates to a local food pantry. Shoppers can benefit from a loyalty punch card program that rewards regular visits.
Social media, signage, and visual branding are handled by Sage, who also works part-time in the store. From hand-drawn displays to digital posts, Sage adds an artistic flair that enhances the store’s approachable vibe.
Since opening, The Vegan Pantry has seen steady growth, with both new and returning customers walking through its doors every day. Visibility is growing, and word of mouth is making an impact, even though the store is tucked around a corner.
“People are finding us,” Andrea smiles. “And when they do, they come back. That’s the best part.”
Her commitment to customer happiness shows. Andrea takes time to get to know the people who shop at her store, creating relationships that extend beyond transactions.
Beyond retail, Andrea brings her personality to the store. She’s an animal lover, a music enthusiast (punk rock especially), and a hockey fan who enjoys camping when she gets the chance. These passions inform the spirit of The Vegan Pantry – welcoming, fun, and full of heart.
To locals in Kenmore and those passing through, The Vegan Pantry is more than a store. It’s a vibrant reminder that plant-based living can be accessible, joyful, and deeply rooted in community.
Learn more and plan your visit:
The Vegan Pantry
3147 Delaware Ave., Kenmore, NY 14217
Website: www.theveganpantry.net
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