Sunday, December 30, 2012

Sloopin Top Ten of 2012: #1 - Mariano's Begins Construction

2012 is almost over and with that we fired up our google analytics account to see which stories had the most views during the year.  With that said, look for posts daily counting down our top ten stories of 2012.

#1:  Mariano's Construction Commences
Our number one story of the year based on traffic to Sloopin was about Mariano's, the highly popular grocery chain that is coming to the empty lot on Clark between 16th and 17th.

News of this development began back in September of 2011 in an article by the Chicago Journal.  We then got an anonymous tipster who sent us various renderings of the new building.

Roundy's, the parent company of Mariano's, had a community meeting in March where they confirmed some of the information we received as well as provided some additional info.  They also let us know that construction was going to begin in late Summer.

Sure enough, in late September construction began.  While we haven't heard an official opening date, rumors have the store opening in 2014.  We will see and keep you posted as we hear more.

Interestingly, the recently opened West Loop Mariano's seems to be going well.  YoChicago had a recent post where the wondered if Mariano's was going to positively impact real estate prices in the area.  It's speculative, but we're curious to see if our Mariano's helps the prices in the surrounding area.

We've still never been to a Mariano's, but everyone who we talk continues to gush about the stores.  They say it's Whole Foods quality at a way cheaper price.  Sounds intriguing to us!

6 comments:

Anonymous said...

This is GREAT news! This is a wonderful store and will eliminate my needing to go into ever Jewel again!

Anonymous said...

The West Loop store is very nice. They are going to kick the crap out of Whole Foods with their lower prices

Anonymous said...

Like Wegmans?

Anonymous said...

Similar to wegmans. Mariano's doesn't have as many organic items as wegmans but it sure is better than Jewel or Dominick's and is much cheaper than WF. Their hot food section is very near what Wegmans has though and the produce is top notch in terms of quality and variety.

Anonymous said...

I hope it has subs like wegmans

Anonymous said...

LOVE the East Randolph store in East Lakeview. Not just the prices but the store layout, the cleanliness and the staff is friendly, helpful and seem happy! Open early, including on Sunday mornings. Great bakery, flowers.. I really hope it opens before the projected 2014 date. It's true, the other chain supermarkets will not stand a chance.