As a rule of thumb, liquor stores are not always the most inviting environments.
But The Fresh Market in Ponte Vedra Beach is set to turn that convention on its head with a unique new 8,029 sq. ft. project that will blend shopping with sipping.
The supermarket has been approved to build out a new liquor store and attached seating area in an adjacent commercial space.
Renderings of the project show AI-generated patrons inside a handsomely appointed bar area that will offer seven seats.
The 450 sq. ft. lounge will allow “guests to sample, as well as purchase, experience and enjoy several varieties of wine, beer and mixed-drinks on site,’ the application states.
In addition to alcoholic fare, the the space will offer coffee drinks along with snacks, cheeses, and charcuterie.
The space will feature two banquettes for customers to belly up for a beverage.
There will be no late night carousing, however. As part of the approval process, the space will have to maintain the same hours as the supermarket from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.
The Fresh Market venture will be located at 840 AIAN, Suite 210.
The upscale grocer has more than 150 stores in 22 states, including three locations in Jacksonville.
