"Cruson" was basically the name of on the banner above the premises when the current owners took it over, about 40 years ago, and they decided to leave it be. This is very much in keeping with the general time-stood-still vibe of this Cypriot-run greengrocer's.
Being objective, I'd probably have to admit that their prices and produce aren't necessarily better than you'd find in the local supermarket, but really, it's just MUCH more enjoyable to shop in your neighbourhood store. And I have nothing but admiration for the proprietor, who's clearly about 80 and yet still has the energy to man the shop, his hands gloved in the freezing winter months, for all sorts of hours. He's open till 9pm, even on Sundays! I don't know how he does it, it exhausts me just thinking about the sheer HOURS the old fella must have put in over the decades.
He's still on top of things, too - he'll know, unlike his less savvy minions, that they do in fact have fresh oregano in the back, it just hasn't been unpacked yet. (The fact that he always addresses me as "young man" doesn't hurt either). Cruson stock the famous sachets of "Cock soup" people find so entertaining, as well as sundry Mediterranean and Caribbean essentials. If this isn't enough to persuade you, at least go to check out the prehistoric till, which brings to mind that "Open All Hours" one that kept whacking Ronnie Barker in the gut. Love it. read more