Two chefs with tons of retail and catering experience behind them had a vision to open a new type of boutique food market in South Jersey.
When specialty grocer McFarlan’s Market closed after a short stint in Collingswood last summer, they felt it was the right space at the right time to realize their dream.
It’s a tricky business, though. But if Chefs Joe Muldoon and James Liuzza play their cards right, Haddon Culinary could be a hit. It’s going to depend on a lot of factors, but keeping prices reasonable and making customers happy is going to be key.
I was one of the first to get a look when they opened their doors on Saturday, December 28th. Early buzz brought a line of folks curious to see what the new market was all about.
The first customers certainly had a lot to take in. Many were slowly milling about to check out the various food stations and grocery items. It has everything needed to inspire cooking more at home or not cooking at all. Some of the highlights include:
An array of prepared foods and salads priced by the pound. You can also find pre-made dips, salsas, etc.
A few Roman-style pizzas and a small line-up of baked goods and pastries.
Many pre-made sandwiches for $7.99 and several deli meats all made in-house and priced per the pound.
Hefty seasoned rotisserie chickens priced at $8.99 and mashed potato of the day for a quick meal at home.
Small, but respectable seafood offerings. I was especially happy to see sushi-grade tuna loin.
A more-than-adequate meat department complete with butchery services. Need something cut to your liking or a unique burger blend? They have you covered. All sausages are made in-house.
There are many steak selections to chose from with a nice assortment of house-made marinades and compound butters. They’ll even cook a steak for you at no extra charge!
A decent amount of cheese and charcuterie items in the cheese case featuring many items from Di Bruno Bros.
Lots of pre-made items ready to grab & go for quick heating and eating at home.
A variety of produce items including boxed lettuces, carrots, asparagus, peppers, green beans, mushrooms, fruits, fresh herbs, and more.
A curated mix of grocery items such as pastas, rice, beans, lentils, tomato sauces, olive oils, vinegars, spices, seasonings, and flavorings, etc. They also carry bread and rolls by Sarcone’s and Philly Bread.
Daily soup specials will be featured at the soup station.
Chocolate bars by MADE Atlantic City are some of the locally and regionally made items available.
All of this is really the tip of the iceberg. I highly recommend that you check it out for yourself. It really is a culinarian’s dream; a foodie paradise. There’s much to love here. If you like to eat, it’s a must-visit.
Haddon Culinary is located at 741 Haddon Avenue.
I’d love to hear your thoughts when you go!
Marilyn is a freelance writer covering the food and drink scene of South Jersey. You can find more of her writing on Philly Grub and NewsBreak.