Whoever said “the bigger, the better” had the new location of Whole Foods in mind. Situated on Hydraulic Road and boasting an additional 15,000 square feet, the new Whole Foods is an impressive fixture. During a special tour before the official June 7 opening, we got a little taste of what’s, er, in store.
Each main section of WF has swollen in size, and contains new features like pre-packaged cuts of fish, a pasta station and a tasting bar. With the new store also comes a brand-new Cooking Charlottesville section to continue the company’s emphasis on healthy eating. The section features a full-time cooking coach on-hand to help shoppers plan and prepare meals.
You’ll notice a few shout-outs to local establishments, too. Chiles Peach Orchard, Shenandoah Joe and Linden Vineyards are just a few names we heard mentioned during the tour. And that local appreciation extends past the shopping cart. You’ll notice some familiar flooring in the snack aisle, where the builders inlaid a portion of University Hall’s hardwoods into the floor.