he first generation of Michael’s Eighth Avenue began in the 1950s with Harry and May Wagner. They operated a poultry and egg business, delivering their goods house-to-house throughout Baltimore City and Anne Arundel County. The 1960s brought a new generation of Wagners as well as the company’s recognition that there was a rising need to supply area restaurants with more products than were available at that time. From this modest beginning, HandM Wagner and Sons, Inc. were able to continue growing not only their business but their also their product line—which today includes over 9,000 items.
Slowly the company began to grow from one that hosted only a few affairs to one that would soon require a larger facility. Mike purchased Kohn and Kelly Deli on Crain Highway, and began operating the deli while also handling catering affairs from that same location. Before long, the Wagners would need an even larger facility. First Mike moved to Roesler Road off of Ritchie Highway and then in 1982 to Penrod Court, merely three blocks from where Michael’s Eighth Avenue is located today. Two moves later, in January 1990, construction began on what is now the lovely home of Michael’s Eighth Avenue catering services. The design, décor, and operation of the building were personally laid out by Mike, his wife Carol, and their son Scott. From the staircases to the mirrors, the colors to the furniture, this business has always been driven by the Wagner’s close-knit family.
Michael’s Eighth Avenue has recently expanded their food management division to include additional businesses such as Mikie’s Restaurant, The Woodlands and Diamond Ridge Golf Courses in Baltimore County, and three Anne Arundel County baseball facilities. Michael’s also promotes Ballroom Boxing, a professional boxing series hosted by Mike’s son, Scott Wagner.
Everyone at Michael’s Eighth Avenue firmly believes that the strength of our business originates with the fine people that make it run on a daily basis. Our staff, comprised of over 100 foodservice professionals, is dedicated to going the extra mile to satisfy our customers’ needs. As our management team evolves from generation to generation, our tradition of excellence is bound to continue and grow stronger. Michael’s Eighth Avenue envisions a strong future built on the belief that business goes where it’s invited and stays where it’s appreciated. We hope to stick around for many years to come.