Mt. Lebanon's walkable business district has gained its first healthy, convenient grocery option with Eden's Market, which opened at the end of June and will host a grand opening in September.
Located at 99 Alfred St., in the former space of Art Store Gallery near Clearview Common, the market is accessible to nearby residents who don't feel like driving to Giant Eagle or Kuhn's.
Eden's Market is no run-of-the-mill convenience store, though. Owner Jeff Weiner sees Eden's Market more as an alternative to Whole Foods than 7-Eleven. The market specializes in allergy-friendly, gluten-free, organic and local products. About two-thirds of the 1,800 square-foot, ground-level shop is dedicated to specialty items, while the other one-third offers traditional convenience goods. Standout products include a hard-to-find gluten-free challah bread for Jewish customers, and handmade Italian entrees from Mariani's Pleasure Bar in Bloomfield.
"One of the biggest holes in the community was the fact that there was no place to go for healthy groceries without getting in a car," says Eric Milliron, Jr., with the Municipality of Mt. Lebanon. "Eden’s Market is like manna from heaven for the neighbors."
Weiner, who has more than 20 years experience in the grocery business, was inspired by his family to establish Eden's Market. Weiner himself adheres to a gluten-free diet to treat celiac disease, and two of his four children follow strict, supplement-rich diets to manage autism.
After moving to Sedona, Ariz. after Hurricane Ivan-related flooding damaged his McDonald, Pa. supermarket five years ago, Weiner is happy to be back in the region, which he says offers not only a stronger economy but also superior access to special needs services.
To receive Pop City free every week, click here.Writer:
Caralyn GreenSources: Jeff Weiner, owner, Eden's Market; Eric Milliron, Jr., manager of commercial districts, Municipality of Mt. Lebanon
Photograph copyright Tracy Certo