While residents of Italian Village have multiple grocery stores located just outside the neighborhood, what they don’t have is a neighborhood-centric corner store to call their own. That could potentially change this fall, as local entrepreneur Ali Alshahal has proposed to turn the former Saveway Mart into a new concept known simply as “The Market”.
“The Market is going to be a community market place based on European cafes and bistros,” explained Alshahal. “We will feature authentic Italian wood fired pizzas, a deli with artisanal meats and cheeses, hand selected bottles of wine and craft beer with Growlers available, as well as fresh local produce, grocery items, and a small cafe.”
Alshahal is also involved in the development of the 4th Street Bar & Grill, The Crest Gastropub and Midway on High. He says that he sees Italian Village as a growing neighborhood where The Market can become a building block for continued growth.
“We are taking what we have learned from our previous locations and developing the best parts,” he said. “It’s not really competitive; more like branching out into a new area of Columbus. We’re all about the local love.”
The proposed 3,500 square foot store is targeted for a Late Fall opening, and is planned to be open seven days a week with hours that stretch from early morning to late night. Currently, The Market is still going through the review process with the Italian Village Commission and obtaining other permits and approvals.
“Obviously, we want to take our time and get everything right, from the ground up,” said Alshahal. “Really, we’re just looking forward to moving into a new part of town. It really is a great experience being able to be a part of many different neighborhoods of Columbus — from Campus to Clintonville, and now Italian Village too.”
Renderings provided by Tim Lai Architect.
Photo by Anne Evans.