Vineyard residents flocked to Bella’s Market, a new and elegant centerpiece of Utah City.
Store director Justin McFadden said more than 5,000 people came on opening day in November — the largest grand opening in Associated Food Stores history.
"It was crazy. I got here at 6 a.m. and there was a line around the store and I was checking out back in the receiving area and the line went past the receiving area. So I was out there, you know, offering donuts or anything I could do to just kind of help people. Just kind of be comfortable," McFadden said.
The store is locally owned and operated and managed by Lee's Marketplace.
One of Bella’s Market's highest values is community, which McFadden said is evident in the friendliness of the staff.
Bella's head of marketing, Kelli Sullivan, said the products are also giving value to the community.
"We want people to come and just feel like they belong and they're part of a neighborhood and we want to offer value, and like not only the prices but the products that are here,” Sullivan said.
Some customer favorites are Bella’s from-scratch baked goods, fresh sushi, homemade tortillas, custom cut meat, locally grown produce, cheeses and bouquets from the flower bar.
McFadden said the store offers a little of everything, a blend of both unique and everyday products that other high-end markets don't usually have.
Another draw to Bella’s is its architectural design.
"This is just such a beautiful store and I’m super excited," McFadden said.
The ceilings are high, the windows long and the views stunning.
To its visitors, Bella's Market is more than just a grocery store.
"It's actually become this destination like daily people are posting, 'I got to visit Bella’s Market for the first time. It's so beautiful. I can't imagine I’m saying that about a grocery store,'” Sullivan said.
As the surrounding community continues to grow, Bella's Market is expected to follow suit.