NOW

Originally an Italian grocer, Butterfield became family-owned when Theodore “Teddy” Appelbaum started working as a manager in the 50s and purchased it with his son-in-law, Alan Obsatz, in 1974.

Joelle, Alan’s daughter, has fond memories of growing up at the market. She is, in her words, “proud of being involved in the community.” Part of the joy of being a longstanding staple within the neighborhood is seeing multiple generations passing through their doors. Alan, in particular, has loved engaging in conversations with customers over the years, and watching the little ones grow up and have their own families.

Though steeped in history, Butterfield is constantly evolving and improving with new ideas. In 2006, the family introduced prepared food, and would go on to open a commercial kitchen two years later. During Covid, Butterfield added another location on Madison Avenue, and a to-go sushi shop nearby.

THEN

This 6-story brick building was built in 1929 and designed by architects Gronenberg & Leuchtag, replacing two brownstones facing East 78th Street. This corner has long been a location for grocery shopping. The tall stoops of the long-gone rowhouses and the slight slant of Lexington Avenue allowed for a full-height basement, where Market Vonndome was located. When the new tenement was constructed, Gristede Brothers grocers occupied the first floor. Butterfield has been here since the 1970s, and the building retains much of its original appearance. Missing are lovely multi-pane casement windows on the top floor.