A new grocery store opened Thursday in North Minneapolis, filling a void left when the area lost its previous grocery store in 2023.

Colonial Market, owned by Daniel Hernandez, held its grand opening celebration with Mayor Jacob Frey, Council Member Latricia Vita and other community leaders in attendance. The store features a butcher, deli, bakery and taqueria, according to officials at the event.

"Your access to fresh fruit and vegetables to wholesome foods should not be dependent on the zip code in which you live," Frey said during the ceremony. The mayor noted that 50,000 residents live on the north side and emphasized the importance of having local access to groceries.

Hernandez, who described himself as an Afro Latino immigrant who came to the country at age 16, said the store represents opportunity, resilience and unity for the community. The business has hired approximately 20 staff members, many from the local neighborhood, according to Hernandez.

The opening resulted from a partnership between Hernandez and property owner David Wellington, facilitated by the mayor's office in 2023. Council Member Vita praised the store as representing the cultural corridor of the area and making everyone feel welcome in the community.