He also added, “If you change your mind and start it again please yell from the roof tops — I’d stand first in line but that might be too much competition.”

Quattrone and anyone who shared his sentiments will have their chance to stand in line, twice a week, moving forward. The Indian buffet at Cassadaga Shurfine has been brought back, set from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. each Wednesday and Saturday. The buffet celebrated its re-opening this past Saturday.

As stated on the Cassadaga Shurfine Facebook page, the business received “immense support” from the Cassadaga community to inspire the change of heart. Cassadaga Shurfine offered thanks for the “kindness and support” it received.

The business, located just outside of the village limits off Route 60, originally discontinued its buffet due to what it called “hurtful and racist remarks” from patrons who visited the store and disapproved of the buffet. In response, Sheriff Quattrone spoke out against the comments directed at members of the store.

Pictured are cards of support from community members who have visited Cassadaga Shurfine following its Indian cuisine buffet being discontinued.

Shortly afterward, Village of Cassadaga Trustees Cindy Flaherty and Cathy Cruver defended Cassadaga Shurfine against the negative comments.

“I just thought it was appalling,” Flaherty said. “I am hoping that it wasn’t a village resident that made those comments because we are better than that.”

Cruver added, “It would be my hope that the majority of the people who live in this village do not hold the same views of diversity.”

Following comments from the Village Board, a group of Chautauqua County residents came together to support the business by placing a special order for the buffet to be held for 50 guests. The group was organized by Sue Bigler and Joe Brzezowski.

Bigler stated there was an “overwhelming response in support of the owners and staff of Shurfine”, with 50 people visiting the local business on a Saturday afternoon to support the buffet, Shurfine employees and their manager, Tammy. The support was so strong that a limit had to be set at 50 guests because of capacity and seating concerns.

After the event, Bigler said, “We’re hoping that we have shown Tammy and her staff that there are many folks out there who support them and who enjoy more variety in their dining menus, including delicious Indian cuisine. We hope they will continue building up their business and resume their special Indian food offerings.”

An appreciation day was also held recently, where guests were encouraged to support the store through purchases and by signing a card. Dozens of cards were on display at the store following the event.

All of those recent events led to the decision to re-open the buffet twice a week, which Cassadaga Shurfine shared on its Facebook page. The announcement received nearly 400 reactions, more than 40 comments and more than 40 shares within the first week.

Cassadaga Shurfine stated on Facebook, “Thank you so much to the wonderful community of Cassadaga for coming in our support. We really appreciate you all. Your kindness means a lot.”