The Fresh Market in Bradenton: Our new favorite food spot

Sure, the drive to University Parkway isn't bad.

But we wanted to frequent the new store in our neighborhood.

So for months we glanced over at the construction at the Northwest Promenade in the 6700 block of Manatee Avenue West.

And counted down the days.

On Wednesday morning, it finally happened.

We joined thousands of other foodies for the grand opening of The Fresh Market.

"It's like Christmas," my fiancee whispered to me moments after we entered.

And like wide-eyed children surveying a living room full of presents, we walked the aisles of the gourmet grocery store.

Read more of my Sunday column.

—Photo of the bakery a The Fresh Market, 6701 Manatee Ave. W, Bradenton, by Wade Tatangelo.