There have recently been two articles in the Des Moines Register about specialty markets opening in the Metro Area. These markets are normally only seen in Cities with large populations (like Chicago, or New York) that can support such a specialty store.
Downtown Des Moines is the beneficiary of 2 such markets.
The first is the East Village market owned by the same guy that owns Basil Prosperi's Lucca in the East Village. It will be similar to the neighborhood bodegas seen in cities such as Chicago and New York. It will offer grocery staples such as milk, bread, local produce and toiletries, plus gourmet wines, cheeses and deli meats.
The other is by Full Court Press, which has developed downtown bars like the High Life Lounge, and plans a gourmet market at 208 Court Ave.
Downtown Des Moines has needed a grocery store for years. There are tons of residential developments in the area (many upscale) and the people living here need a place where they can get the quick essentials. Both of these markets should do well as they market to the exact demographic that surrounds them. Read the article from the Register here: www.desmoinesregister.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2007703200369
Lastly, The Market at Jordan Creek is the combination of a gourmet and specialty food store, restaurant, deli, bakery and an upscale coffee shop - known as the Espresso Café. It is a much larger store and it's staff features a number of culinary professionals and it's products and services include gourmet, organic, and fresh pre-prepared foods, unique gift items and professional catering. See the Register's recent article here:
www.desmoinesregister.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2007703210343
The Market at Jordan Creek is a "fun" place to visit, but being that everything in it is so expensive, I'm not sure it will last. I hope it does, because I love to see these types of things succeed in our great city!
