By Sadef Ali Kully
Green Apple Supermarket in downtown Jamaica, which had its grand opening in late August, will unveil its food court and party room this weekend.
The 28,000-square-foot supermarket, located at 92-25 Guy Brewer Blvd., between Jamaica and Archer avenues, sells thousands of products and is the fourth in the chain to open but the first one to have the food court and party room concept.
The food court will feature 10 stations to serve American, West Indian, Latin and Asian cuisines, including Halal food options for Muslims, from all corners of the world.
The 2,000-square-foot party room is located beneath the food court and can cater up to 120 guests for a buffet-style event.
“We are looking to attract office parties, orientations, children’s party,” Ricky Chung, general manager of Green Apple Supermarket, said. “I want to focus on keeping it a family-oriented place.”
Chung said the party room space does not have plans for getting a liquor license. It will double as additional seating for the food court unless someone has reserved it for a party.
“Our breakfast station will open around 6 a.m. and then the rest of the food court will be open at 10:30 a.m. until closing time,” Chung said. “People can reserve for a party during that time.”
The food court opens at 10:30 a.m. and closes at 9 p.m., while the supermarket is open Monday through Saturday from 7 a.m. – 10 p.m., and on Sundays from 8 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Chung said the supermarket has hired 150 employees from the area and is looking to hire more once the food court opens.
For Chung, who has been in the food business for 20 years, the most important part of the new venture is the food.
“I am constantly trying out all the food. If they make it and it is no good, then they don’t work for me,” Chung said about the kitchen staff. “Our prices are affordable and the menu is not complicated. A meal in the food court can go up to $7, drinks included. We try our best to serve the customers.”
Chung said that he is willing to listen to customer suggestions for new menu items but said those dishes would only be served if cooked well.
“It has to taste good,” he said.
Chung also pointed out that the opening of the food court and party room were delayed due to new gas lines being installed. He said the food court needed high pressure ones and National Grid worked with him to open the lines within a month’s time.
“The National Grid engineers were quick and efficient,” he said, “or else this could have taken months to install.”
The Green Apple Supermarket is the latest development venture in downtown Jamaica by the Flushing-based company, Century Development Group, which has been involved in the development of residential, commercial, mixed-use and hospitality projects primarily across the borough.
Reach Reporter Sadef Ali Kully by e-mail at skull
