Atlasta Deli is consolidating with Kodiak Kafe in a move to centralize catering and to create another business, according to Robin Alessi, owner.

"This is a natural evolution of my two businesses," said Alessi.

Atlasta Deli, at 36th and Arctic, is now closed.

With the combined businesses, Alessi will offer a unique service.

"We will be offering a program for frequent courier customers that will allow them the opportunity to enjoy free or discounted meals from the Kodiak Kafe," said Alessi.

Long-term plans include a future expansion at her downtown location, at 225 E. Fifth Avenue at Cordova.

"I own the building here on Fifth Avenue as opposed to the leased space at the Midtown location of the deli," said Alessi. "It makes sense to build on my property both an expanded kitchen and additional seating for the restaurant. I am also considering a second floor that would include apartments."

The growth of downtown also is part of her decision for the consolidation and expansion.

"We see great things at this end of downtown," Alessi said.

"Certainly the renovation of the McKay building complex would be an improvement, but we have also welcomed the new fire department building, FBI, Office Depot and the museum expansion. Downtown is rebuilding and moving this direction very swiftly."

Atlasta Deli began in 1989 as a joint venture between Alessi and her brother, Clay Donohoe, whom she later bought out in 1997.

That same year, Alessi acquired the building for the Kodiak Kafe downtown and has been busy renovating it.

The 3,650 square-foot Kodiak Kafe seats 80 and also has a summer courtyard that seats another 80. It has an Alaska-Western motif. Alessi has five employees.

"Business is good," Alessi said. "We get a lot of tourists, especially in the summer, from the Sheraton and Day's Inn, who recommend us. And we get a lot of state and federal people. We also do a lot of deliveries all over town, and a lot of catering, too."

Some of her catering clients include corporate aviation, weddings and business functions.

Alessi was awarded the Heart of the City award for her renovations of the Kodiak Kafe. She was also a YWCA Women of Achievement award winner.

She came to Alaska in 1988 from Virginia, where she worked as a manager for Marriott Corporation for eight years.

When not working she enjoys time with her horses.

"I love it up here," Alessi said. "No fences!"