By Kaitlyn Schallhorn (Courtesy photo)

Alexandria got a little more organic last month as The Fresh Market opened up its 12th store in the commonwealth.

The market debuted with a “gourmet version of a ribbon-cutting ceremony” in the form of an early-morning breakfast. The 3680 King St. store is only part of the company’s plans for expansion across the United States.

With more than 400 items up for grabs in the small store, customers can shop in a tight-knit environment.

“With smaller, more intimate stores, classical music and soft lighting, and the aromas of freshly baked bread and coffee, our stores simply provide a unique shopping experience that customers can’t find elsewhere,” said Drewry Sackett, public and community relations manager for The Fresh Market.

Along with organic produce, The Fresh Market offers an array of perishables and local goods. The market also provides a full-service meat and seafood department with butchers on hand daily. And the European-style deli features more than 200 varieties of imported and domestic cheeses.

It was Alexandria’s high-class status that earned the city the 12th Fresh Market in Virginia.

“We are always on the lookout for markets where shoppers appreciate high-quality food and outstanding customer service, and Alexandria is just such a place,” Sackett said. “We look forward to serving this community and providing residents here with The Fresh Market’s unique shopping experience.”