The 'Burg's New Foodtown Is No Whole Foods; A Café for Joe Fresh?

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WILLIAMSBURG—For years, northside Williamsburgers had to rely on musty, eccentric Tops for their supermarket needs. As of April 1st, though, there's a new grocery store in the neighborhood. Say hello to Foodtown, which offers fresh meat and produce, an olive bar, and prepared foods at Bedford Avenue and N.3rd Street. A local offers this assessment: "It's no different than your C-Town or Associated." Which means that while it has the advantage of convenience, it's still not going to be able to compete with Whole Foods, just an L-train ride away. [RackedWire]

BRYANT PARK—Tomorrow, preservationists and developers will meet to discuss changes to 510 Fifth Avenue, the historic building that will someday house Canadian chain Joe Fresh. Last month, the Landmarks Preservation Commission rejected a plan from Vornado, which owns the building. Vornado will present an alternative plan tomorrow, as will the group pushing to preserve the original space. At stake: Possible new entrances and a potential café/bar. Joe Fresh was originally sold at Canadian supermarkets, so it wouldn't be totally out if place for its New York location to serve snacks. [Curbed NY]