Fresh Market Fever

On the corner of St. Charles and Louisiana Avenues sits a newly opened Fresh Market grocery. It's a cross between a Whole Foods Market and the Rouses on Baronne in the Central Business District. The parking is extremely limited and we opted to park across Louisiana due to the heavily trafficked intersection and the wicked U-turn to avoid an accident. (There was evidence in the street that an accident involving a Honda had recently occurred.)

In most recent memory, the new Fresh Market location was a Borders book store. While the bookstore was rather short lived, the location was home to the Bultman Funeral Home for 83 years which closed permanently following Hurricane Katrina. 

The first area upon entering is the floral area, where lilies, irises, callas, hydrangeas, roses and spring bouquets offer visitors a well-rounded selection. In addition, candles, orchids and small gift items make Fresh Market a nice stop before a dinner, birthday or housewarming party. 

The produce section was as colorful as you'd expect but quarters were super tight as real estate is extremely limited throughout. I was thrilled to find the teeny grapes or bunchkins that I love and at $2.50, they were added to our small cart. 

Fresh Market brand
Meyer Lemon Soda.

We hopped the elevator to the second floor where the liquor department is located. In a pinch, it will do, but if you are looking for a wide variety or inspiration for a cocktail, this is not the place. With this limited selection, it's hard to justify spending several dollars more for wine, beer and spirits that any other area grocery store has and that after hitting the Fresh Market you'll probably have to visit to fill out your shopping list.

We were pleased to see that they had the full line of New Orleans Ice Cream Co. and even a few pints left of the Hubig's Apple Pie flavor. Yes, we added that to the cart as well as four bottles of Meyer Lemon Soda we'll use as mixers. 

Bulk candies galore, candy bars,
a tree of gourmet lollipops. 

The candy section is extensive and frankly rocks. The bakery is full of sweet and artisan breaded, over sized cupcakes and cakes, and the prepared food section is one that might offer a home cooked meal for us in a time crunch. 

Employing 90 and bringing an empty landmark back into commerce, the Fresh Market is definitely a welcomed addition to the neighborhood. It will also be a great place to hit before a Mardi Gras parade.