Local Foods Market to unveil expanded concept in Rice Village

After taking over the former benjy’s space in Rice Village, Local Foods Market is set to open Feb. 16.

The new concept offers counter service and grab-and-go meals along with a boutique grocery marketplace that offers goods from local suppliers and a selection of organic, hard-to-find wines. The market builds on the market and grab-and-go concept that Local Foods began offering amid COVID-19 shutdowns last year.

“We are thrilled to continue the pop-up success with the conversion of benjy’s into a larger Local Foods Market. Our Chefs have created an amazing menu featuring upscale ingredients for diners to enjoy in a casual atmosphere,” Local Foods owner Benjy Levit said in a news release.

The newly redesigned 4,500-square-foot, two-story space includes an expanded covered patio for up to 50 guests, new built-in booths, 1940s-inspired light fixtures and heritage pieces from Levit’s grandfather’s grocery store in Florida.

The counter service menu, crafted by former benjy chefs Maria Gonzalez and Mike Potowski, features items such as cheese and charcuterie plates using local Houston Dairymaids cheese and Dozier’s meats; a Chicken Matzo Ramen soup; and a selection of salmon, beef and chicken dishes paired with sides.

The market also features a coffee bar and a selection of wines on tap.

The existing Local Foods restaurant space next door, meanwhile, will close to dine-in service for about a month starting Feb. 15 while it undergoes a refresh.