Something is stirring on Rough and Ready Highway. After sitting vacant for between 15 and 20 years, the old market at 14503 Rough and Ready Highway is being brought back to life as Rough and Ready Mercantile, a new grocery store, deli, and barbecue concept where locals can gather. The opening date has not yet been confirmed. They are still in the early stages of planning and marketing, but expect to open before the end of 2026, according to owner Chelsea Loesch.
“A little piece of history is being reopened and brought back to the locals,” Loesch told What Now Sacramento.
The history runs deep on this location. The address sits on the same ground where the Rough and Ready Hotel once stood, a landmark from the late 1800s and early 1900s that served the community during its Gold Rush heyday. When the hotel was torn down, a market was built in its place, changing hands a few times before eventually closing. Now, Loesch is stepping in to write the next chapter.
The return of a neighborhood market could fill an important gap for residents of Rough and Ready. Known for its Gold Rush history and rural character, the area has limited retail options compared with larger nearby communities. The owners say the goal is to create a community-driven destination that serves both practical needs and local connections. The deli and barbecue offerings are expected to complement the grocery operation, giving residents a place to shop, grab a meal and gather with neighbors.
