We have just one opening for you in this edition, but this store has already become one of the most popular businesses on Fulton Street. Any neighborhood with a growing population of residents, not to mention workers and visitors, needs a well-stocked grocery store that caters to a variety of needs. Key Food’s huge new 55 Fulton Market is a neighborhood amenity on a street whose residents are more than ready to welcome it.

55 Fulton Market, 55 Fulton Street, (646) 581-9260

A formerly vacant storefront is now one of the busiest stretches of sidewalk on Lower Manhattan’s east side. Key Food’s 55 Fulton Market threw wide its doors to a lot of eager shoppers and celebrated its grand opening with specials and free treats.

The 24-hour market—located in the Southbridge Towers and replacing the old Key Food a block away—is more of a gourmet food shop with restaurant touches and outdoor seating that also carries your basic super market staples. I stopped by on a “pre-grand opening” day this week and perused the aisles with a horde of other shoppers. I was surprised by how many people came out, considering that this is a grocery store and no one is giving away free iPads, but I’ve learned to never underestimate the power of something large, new, and well-stocked with food and free samples.

Local workers will find the hot bar, salad bar, and grab-and-go-options great for fast lunches. Several sushi chefs were working behind the counter restocking a supply of rolls that looked to be fresh and more affordable than I’ve seen in other quarters. Also available are ready-made sandwiches, soups, and desserts. In other parts of the market, shoppers can find meat and cheese counters, bakery items, and the usual dry goods and supplies.

Closings:

Urban Lobster Shack, 15 Stone Street

Wendy’s, 117 Beekman Street