Fayetteville’s first Whole Foods opens next week with a “bread-breaking” on March 2. As a blogger, I took advantage of the invitation to peek inside the new store. And as someone who moved from East Dallas where we had a Whole Foods and a Trader Joe’s within a few blocks of our house, I’m excited. I believe there’s plenty of room for both Whole Foods and Ozark Natural Foods (as well as IGA and Harps, etc.). Separate niches, different benefits. Having choices is a good thing.
FYI: I was not compensated for this post, but I did receive a big bag of swag as part of the tour. Opinions are my own.
My first impression:
With 16 beers on tap and many local varieties, I predict the beer / coffee bar will be a popular hangout. The space is roomy with a cool vibe. Books fill the wall and are bolted to the ceiling. (While I prefer my books for reading, they make for interesting decoration.) There are tons of board games that can really be taken off the shelves and played. The store is planning a weekly trivia night.
There’s a beautiful wood-fired pizza oven offering the convenience of a made-to-order pie or a couple of to-go slices while shopping.
Although the olive bar wasn’t stocked yet, it will be typical Whole Foods extensive.
There’s a nice wine selection. #myhusbandsfavoriteplace
Cards, fresh flowers, gifts, candles, beauty products galore provide one stop shopping.
The store has a fishmonger. I like to say that word, but seriously, I predict the seafood selection will be the best in town.
And the cheese! Yes.
The GREAT: Produce & prepared foods, finish out, service, little touches = A++
The NOT SO GREAT: Traffic at that intersection is already tough. It will only get worse when the store opens.
The REALITY: No doubt, your food budget will be on the upswing.
Grace Grits and Gardening
Farm. Food. Garden. Life.
So tell me, are you excited about Whole Foods Fayetteville?
[tweetthis]A peek inside: @WholeFoodsFay #ad #FayFresh [/tweetthis]
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