If you dare question Main Line residents’ loyalties towards local businesses, then you haven’t heard the story of Yang’s Market, a recently closed produce market in Berwyn; and Fresh Ideas, a boutique farmer’s market slated to open in its place this Friday, June 8.
Yong Yang –Mr. Yang, as everyone affectionately refers to him – ran a small market for decades in the community, offering reasonably priced fruits, vegetables, fresh herbs, sundry Asian ingredients and prepared foods. Beautiful produce, a convenient location and a calm shopping environment – beckoned customers. Mr. Yang ran his business with dedication and integrity.
So it was a terrible crime when two teenagers attacked Mr. Yang earlier this year, badly damaging his vision in one eye. While the local community came out in droves to support 74-year-old Mr. Yang, managing the numerous day-to-day duties of the store was ultimately too much.
Enter the vision of local restaurateur Meridith Coyle, owner of Aneu Bistro & Wine Bar, a neighboring restaurant. Having owned and operated stands at local farmers markets for two decades, Coyle made the decision to purchase Yang’s Market and transform the store into Fresh Ideas. She’s preserving aspects of the beloved former produce market. Mr. Yang will work onsite, mentoring Coyle in the ‘art of conventional produce.’ She’ll also be bringing together a variety of local experts and their specialty products – artisanal breads, cheeses, meats, prepared foods, flowers, baked goods and more.
Coyle, who has been busy meeting with local farmers and learning their craft, will focus on the prepared foods. “I’ll be using the market’s organic produce, meats, cheese and breads to craft what we sell. We’ll offer a variety of soups, sandwiches, seasonal dishes, and many vegan and gluten-free options,” she said.
Final renovations are in progress and Fresh Ideas is slated to open this Friday. The store, located at 573 Lancaster Avenue, will be open seven days a week. For more information, please visit www.shopfreshideas.com.
Food photograph courtesy of Fresh Ideas.
