When the doors swung open in August on the newly remodeled Rice Epicurean Markets location, neighborhood shoppers were greeted by a unique and exciting new store designed specifically with the upscale, urban neighborhood it calls home in mind. Having served the Village area since 1937, the neighborhood's original grocery store (originally at the corner of Rice Blvd. and Kelvin) is delighting customers with a tantalizing assortment of new products, services and departments.

Upon entering the store, shoppers are greeted by a robust variety of fresh and delicious produce, along with a distinctive architectural design. "We want to awaken the senses from the moment you walk in to the store, and provide an enticing welcome that prepares you for a fabulous shopping experience," said Bruce Levy, one of the store's owners.

Also featured in the remodel, designed by Hermes Architects, is a fantastic array of boutique style permanent displays offering exciting products. New in the deli are The Carvery, offering delicious ready to eat meals and gourmet sandwiches, a $5 Buck Cluck Hot Rotisserie Chicken case providing delicious all-natural chickens in a variety of flavors, and a special Smoked Salmon program bringing NY deli style, fresh sliced salmon back to Houston.

In other areas of the store, the fresh floral department has been expanded, the See's Candy boutique offers counter service and a wide assortment of pre-packed goodies, and the all new Stonewall Kitchen boutique pulls together a huge line of delicious and award winning products that includes marinades, all-natural preserves, fabulous dips and more. The bakery department features fresh baked breads, delectable treats and the famous Killer Brownies in a variety of flavors. Additionally, the meat department has been expanded, and includes a full time staff of butchers at the ready.

At the same time that the store's interior was completely renovated, the exterior of the shopping center was also updated. U.S. Builders was the general contractor for the renovation.

"With this new store concept, we wanted to provide a dynamic shopping experience that works for both the residential customers from West U, Braes Heights, and other surrounding neighborhoods, while also providing relevant services for the people that work next door at Kelsey Seybold and in the near by Medical Center," said Gary Friedlander, President of Rice Epicurean Markets.

Founded in 1937, Rice Epicurean Markets is the oldest family-owned supermarket chain in Houston. Each of the five locations are merchandised to be in tune with its particular neighborhood and feature high quality gourmet products, personalized service and exclusive lines like Logan Farms Honey Glazed Ham, See's Candy and Killer Brownies.