H Mart in Cherry Hill advances with remodeling and expansion of its food court.

H Mart, a well-established Korean grocery chain located in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, is set to undergo significant renovations over the coming months. The Cherry Hill Township Planning Board has granted approval for the planned expansion and enhancement of the store, marking a pivotal moment for the establishment that has been serving the South Jersey community since its opening in 2001.

The upcoming remodeling initiative aims to upgrade the store’s first floor to improve the overall shopping experience for customers. Among the key features of the renovation is the introduction of an open-concept food court, in addition to a bakery and mercantile space on the second floor. This transformation is designed to establish H Mart as a vibrant destination within the local community, a vision articulated in the application submitted to the township. Construction on the interior improvements has already commenced.

For many patrons, H Mart represents more than just a grocery store; it has become a cultural hub that reflects the growing diversity of the area. The grocery chain’s wide aisles and bustling food court creative a unique shopping environment that has garnered a loyal following among customers. H Mart’s appeal extends to its diverse selection of snacks and traditional foods, which have even found their way into popular culture, evidenced by the best-selling memoir “Crying in H Mart” by Michelle Zauner, the lead singer of the band Japanese Breakfast.

On any given day, customers can experience the flavors of Asia with offerings that range from fresh kimbap to steaming bowls of noodles and an array of Asian-inspired baked goods at the food court. These features have substantially contributed to H Mart’s prominent status in the grocery market.

Founded in 1982 in New York City by Korean immigrant Il Yeon Kwon, H Mart has significantly expanded since its inception. The chain now boasts nearly 100 locations across the United States, with four stores situated in the Philadelphia area, including the prominent Cherry Hill location. The Cherry Hill H Mart was originally the company’s 10th store and its fourth in New Jersey, offering a diverse range of groceries that cater to both Asian and American tastes, particularly emphasizing Korean products.

The store not only serves a crucial role in providing grocery options for the local Asian community but also contributes to broader culinary diversity within the area. According to U.S. Census data, Cherry Hill’s Asian population has seen a notable increase, rising from approximately 8,300 residents in 2010 to about 10,700 by 2020, underscoring the importance of such establishments in meeting the needs of a diverse demographic.

The enhancements to H Mart in Cherry Hill are poised to further solidify its significance as a cornerstone of the community’s food culture, offering residents both familiar and novel culinary experiences. As renovations progress, the store looks to not only retain its loyal customer base but also attract new visitors eager to explore its enhanced offerings.