Local discount food retailer Hopey and Co. reopened its location on South French Broad Avenue today after completing part of a major expansion that has been underway for the past year.
Owner Danette Hopey was on-hand early for the Tuesday, Dec. 29, launch along with family members and staff stocking shelves, welcoming customers and loading a display they refer to as “The Truck” — an original 1950s-era Asheville tow truck that has been converted into a produce stand and centerpiece for the 40,000-square-foot space.
Hopey and Co.’s downtown location began as a small booth in the back corner of the Downtown Market artists market which occupies the same building. The new expanded space houses a butcher shop and extensive beer and wine area, as well as a deli and café with hot and cold sandwiches, salads and fresh ice cream made in-house from Mills River Creamery milk products.
A full restaurant and demonstration kitchen for cooking classes are planned for the spring. Hopey and Co. also operates two other grocery stores in the area — one on Sweeten Creek Road and one in Black Mountain.
The downtown Hopey and Co. is at 45 S. French Broad Ave. Hours are 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Saturday and 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday.
