Finally, We Can Talk About It: Mariano's Fresh Market Coming to Elmhurst's North Side

Elmhurst shoppers who have had their fingers crossed in hopes of a new, large grocery store in the city will soon have their wishes granted. Mayor Pete DiCianni announced Monday night that Mariano's Fresh Market is planning to open a new store on the site of the shuttered dealership.

While the formal announcement will come on Friday, DiCianni revealed the news a few days early at the City Council meeting. He also hinted at the news at his in January.

“They are a catch,” he said Monday.

DiCianni said the “partnership” between the city and Mariano's is expected to bring about 450 jobs to the area. After the meeting, DiCianni further clarified that the partnership will likely involve some kind of financial incentives from the city.

Acknowledging that residents have been eagerly awaiting the arrival of a new grocery store, DiCianni predicted that Mariano's would be a draw.

“People will be driving to Elmhurst to shop there,” he said.

The chain currently has five stores in the Chicago area, with the newest in . A store in Vernon Hills opened in 2011 after the village pledged about $1.5 million in sales tax rebates over 15 years to developer Bradford Real Estate.

According to the website, the first Mariano’s Fresh Market opened in Arlington Heights in 2010.

“Named for the Chief Executive Officer, Robert Mariano, the store was designed and built to deliver the highest quality products from around the world and those produced locally to shoppers with unequaled service and hospitality,” the website says.

Elmhurst Patch first and has been getting inquiries about it ever since. But the owners quickly clammed up while the details were being worked out with the city. Owned by Roundy's, the market will feature fresh produce, meats, bakery goods and more in a neighborhood shopping environment.

Stay tuned to Elmhurst Patch for more information on Mariano's.