Whole Foods Joins List of Great Grocers in JC
After many months of speculation, it’s confirmed - Whole Foods is coming to JC. The upscale, organic grocer will open a 47,000 – square foot retail location at Mack-Cali’s Harborside 4A building (Washington St. and Columbus Drive). Parking spots will be designated for shoppers in the building garage. Mack-Cali’s Harborside 3 (210 Hudson St) will become the new home of Whole Foods’ Northeast Regional headquarters, currently in Englewood Cliffs. Darden, who has been ardent about the need for strong retail to accompany commercial and residential development, is among the many Whole Foods fans excited by the news; “This is really great news for Jersey City. With the corporate headquarters coming, that means increased foot traffic that will bring so many benefits to small business owners in the area, and we’re hoping this brings new jobs to the area as well. For property owners, this is only good news for the market.”
We’re looking forward to shopping at the new Whole Foods. Granted, it has the nickname “whole paycheck” for a reason. That said, prices have dropped since Amazon took ownership in 2017. And it’s a much welcomed and, from our point of view, much needed addition to the grocery store options in JC, while not a one – stop shop for sure. We will still be faithful to our favorite specialty markets in JC:
Andrea’s Salumeria, 247 Central Ave. This family run business has been in operation since 1975 and is beloved for its Italian sandwiches, homemade sausage, fresh mozzarella, parmigiano reggiano, pecorino romano, marinated peppers, tomatoes and olives, and freshly stuffed cannolis. An old-school JC institution. http://andreasalumeria.com/about/
Pampita Meat Shop, 393 Central Ave. A-list meat shopping at this Argentine butchery – and they deliver! Superior quality grass-fed Argentine beef and American cuts, along with scrumptious homemade empanadas and other Argentine specialties. https://pampitameatshop.com
Jersey City Fish Stand, 508 Jersey Ave. Locals already know this is the ultimate go-to spot for wild caught or organically raised seafood from local, sustainable sources. National coverage in the New York Times, Good Housekeeping, and other press has brought other folks in droves for the daily fresh catch of the day, along with the prepared fish salads, dips, spreads, fish and crab cakes. https://www.thefishstand.com/
Elio’s Bakery & Deli, 442 West Side Avenue. Family owned and opened since 1980, Elio’s serves the most delicious stuffed breads, focaccias, pizza and Italian breads fresh each day, along with hot lunch items and Italian pastries.