Best grocery store? This NC-based chain ranks No. 1 in nation across three categories

A North Carolina-based grocery chain is making its mark on shoppers — in more ways than one.

The Fresh Market ranks No. 1 in the nation across three supermarket categories:

• Best grocery store bakery
• Best grocery store deli
• Best grocery store prepared food

The rankings come from USA Today’s 10Best, which compiles best-of lists. To determine the most-loved supermarkets , 10Best said it asked editors and food experts to choose top-notch stores across the country.

“They selected nominees — across each of six categories — that are worthy of recognition for their diverse selections of goods, friendly customer service, and quality items,” 10Best wrote in its Sept. 12 report. “Then, our readers voted for their favorites to determine the winners.”

What makes The Fresh Market special?

On the resulting lists of readers’ choice award winners, The Fresh Market was the only grocer to top three categories. First, the Greensboro-based chain was recognized for having a bakery that offers a “variety of quality options that suit different tastes and dietary needs.”

“At The Fresh Market, the hand-rolled cake rolls are a must, with flavors like chocolate, pumpkin, and red velvet with cream cheese filling,” 10Best wrote. “You can also find fruit tarts, freshly baked croissants, handcrafted fudge, and plenty of other delectable dessert options.”

The Fresh Market also topped the list of fan-favorite delis . The department got a nod for reflecting the store’s focus on natural and organic ingredients.

“Shoppers can order deli meats, see natural chickens roasting, peruse specialty cheeses, grab some ready-made sides, and order party platters with sandwiches, wraps, and meats and cheeses,” 10Best wrote.

Rounding out the accolades for The Fresh Market was its top spot in the prepared food category. 10Best said the chain “excels” in offering ready-to-go selections, including Bistro meals served with an entree and sides.

“Comfort Bowls soothe souls with hearty foods, while pre-made, all-natural quiche works for brunch,” 10Best wrote. “Ready-to-bake meat or vegetable lasagnas, flatbread pizzas, or a chicken pot pie for four covers your dinner dilemma.”

The Fresh Market has more than 150 stores across 22 states, according to its website.

Though the chain reigned supreme in half of the 10Best categories, it missed the mark for the nation’s best overall grocery store, produce market and butcher shop. Several chains with a North Carolina presence — including Aldi, Publix, Trader Joe’s, Wegmans and Whole Foods — earned recognition across the categories.

In the past, 10Best has told McClatchy News it doesn’t reveal the number of people who vote in its contests.

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