Sprouts Market Is Now Open

Sprouts Market Is Now Open

   The eagerly awaited Sprouts Farmers Market opened on Wednesday, September 19 to sell out crowds ready to enjoy this newest addition to Philly's organic market scene.  I had always been interested in the old train shed that sits upon the site and had hoped over the years that something interesting would be done with it.  Even in it's previous use as a warehouse one could see that there was a handsome old building  hiding under the grime .If   I am very happy to say that this new venture is the best of all possible uses, a much needed community resource and use that takes advantage of a unique space.

   Sprouts is based in Phoenix and this is the first store to open in Pennsylvania, one just opened in Baltimore several months ago, and management hopes to  open more in the Mid Atlantic region in the future.   If you are familiar with places like Whole Foods, Trader Joe's and Mom's Organic Market, you will feel quite at home here.  What is nice is that this is the only store of it's kind west of Broad Street, an area that is not known for decent places to get groceries.  East of Broad, one could shop at the Acme ( small but decent) and the Whole Foods market ( very popular!), both on South Street, and there is always the adventure of the Italian Market, but get there early for the best produce!  West of Broad the only choice you had for a large grocery store was the Fresh Grocer of Gray's Ferry Avenue, and that can be a bit of a hike.  

  When I went to Sprouts on opening day, my first concern was "is there parking?" and yes, there is a nice, new garage next to the market for you to use.  At the moment is free, but may eventually become free with store validation, but I have not found any sure information of this.  My first impressions are of a nice, bright space that is well laid out and even when crowded with shoppers is still pleasant.  The store really reminds me of the old Whole Foods in Fairmount, both in size, layout and ambience.  The old trainshed has been re-purposed as a bright and light filled space with it's great high ceiling above you.  The exterior portion has been beautifully restored with fresh paint on the old cast iron roof supports, newly cleaned brick and restored doors along the sides .  There is a cheerful and laid back vibe to the place and the staff is eager to answer any questions that you may have about the products.   

   If you are looking for big national brands here , you won't find them.  Instead the focus is on organic, sustainable and natural products and they have their own "House" branded products, much like you will find at Whole Foods or Trader Joe's.  There is a large and varied "Bulk Foods" section and you can pack your selection in plastic bags or in re-useable glass jars.  Carnivores need not to worry, the selection of meats and poultry is good sized, always fresh and never frozen.  Sausage selections are made in house and there are many to choose from.  There are also options if you are looking for a quick dinner with pre-made meals that you just need to put in the oven or heat on the stove.

  If you just want a place to hang out for a bit, you can do that also.  There is a coffee and juice bar and they even have Kombucha on tap, the first I have seen.  I got a chance to try some and it was pretty good!  You can also get pre-made sandwiches and wraps to enjoy at the seating area near the front.  Sprouts Farmers Market is looking forward to being a part of the community and has many things to offer, so check it out soon, I am sure you will return often  If you want to learn more about the stores products and mission, use this link http://sprouts.com 

Author: Steve Drabkowski
Phone: 215-760-5825
Dated: September 21st 2018
Views: 34
About Steve: Steve has been a long term resident of Philadelphia, coming here in 1983 and being stationed at the ...

Want to Advertise on this Site?