Fresh Market Opens Wednesday In Congressional Plaza

Whole Foods Market in Congressional Plaza last spring when it vacated its former Rockville location for a

In its wake, though, The Fresh Market has stepped in, catering to a similar clientele. A company press release describes this specialty grocery store, which celebrates its grand opening on Wednesday, as "reminiscent of old-world European markets."

Drewry Sackett, a corporate spokeswoman for the supermarket chain, said the stores offer an "intimate" shopping experience, noting the open layout, the Italian tile floors and the classical music featured on the sound system.

The store features a produce department—about 40 percent of which is organic, a bakery, a full-time florist, a deli, a sushi station and several other departments.

Grand opening festivities will be held all day Wednesday. Customers can sample baby back ribs and other food items from chef demonstrations. The first 3,000 shoppers will also receive free, reuseable grocery bags. The store opens for business at 9 a.m.

Chris Weilminster, the senior vice president of leasing for Federal Realty Investment Trust, which owns Congressional Plaza, said the new store is a great fit for the space.

"We wanted to offer a unique experience (and) an alternative choice to Whole Foods and other traditional grocery stores along Rockville Pike," Weilminster said. "We're excited about them opening."

The Fresh Market currently operates 111 stores in 21 states with plans to add new stores soon. The Rockville store is located at 1649 Rockville Pike.