Lisa G.
Yelp
A beautiful grocery store ... like beautiful? Yes, that is Fresh Market. I always feel like I'm shopping in an Epcot pavilion (maybe of mix of France/Germany/Norway) when I'm here. Its just so darn pretty and I feel good just being in the store. I feel rich ... and I'm so not ... but I feel it when I'm here. Great design! So, its a shopping "experience" and not just a task.
Apart from the elevating mood aesthetics, this store has a lot to offer as well. Many compare it to Whole Foods, which is true in some regards with a good selection of organics, vegan and unique items you won't find at Publix ... but, its the choice of these unique items that makes them different. For a "simple" example (because I am simple!), I love coffee. I love trying all kinds of coffee. At Fresh Market, they have a wonderful aisle of flavored/non-flavored coffee beans to buy per pound. For me, I love this because I have try a little of what flavors interest me and come back to get a larger portion of what I liked. The flavors will change as well. At Whole Foods, you can buy per pound but they have the same selection all the time.
You will find little differences like this with spices, oils, soups, etc. Same-Same-but Different.
The bakery is amazing, the cheese section is incredible and I love the nuts and dried fruit area as its so organized and easy to utilize. Of course, the meat counter is terrific as well. They always have an excellent selection and the staff is so helpful. I will say that they don't have as much of a selection as Whole Foods, especially when it comes to humanely raised/organic choices. However, its comparable with other stores that sell a higher quality product. What do they have that Whole Foods doesn't? I ticket-number system. I LOVE this because I'm always being cut in front of at Whole Foods at the meat counters. So, thank you FM! The short lady no one pays attention to is very appreciative of a "system" for service.
As with pricing, of course you will find some things are more expensive than other stores. However, you can also find things cheaper as well if you look for sales. They have deals like every other place. Yaaasss! People are always shocked when I tell them I can shop for less at Fresh Market or Whole Foods compared to Publix (especially when it comes to organic produce and good quality meats.) This is specifically related to food, not household items, etc. You just have to shop around and not rely on one store to fit your needs ... and Fresh Market is totally worth the "shop around."