Downtown Market: A Culinary Haven Centered Around Community, Health and Flavor
Prepare to enjoy another sparkling addition to the Downtown business-scape, as Downtown Market, a new space for quick bites and hearty provisions, is coming to downtown Columbus. The brainchild of the dedicated and community-minded owners behind Bodega 1205 and The Conquistador in Auburn, this highly-anticipated market, set to launch in September, promises to not only tantalize the taste buds, but also nurture and uplift the community through a fusion of flavors and a heartfelt commitment to its residents.
Bodega 1205, owner and entrepreneur Cesar Bautista’s flagship venture, is centered around the core values of family, culture, and community. It serves as a hub where guests from all walks of life can come together and enjoy a rich tapestry of Latin American flavors. From their renowned fresh coffee selection, to the signature Healthy Fit meals to go, to their carefully-crafted entrees, Bodega 1205 invites patrons to experience a taste of paradise.
It is abundantly clear that Cesar is driven by a deep passion for serving and bolstering the local community. This commitment shines through as he shares, “We don’t do it to compete with anyone, we don’t do it for the prices. We do it because we want to stay here. Because we call this place home.” For him and his team, the market is not just a business venture; it is a labor of love, and a means to create a sense of belonging and togetherness in the heart of Columbus.
Reflecting on the unique spirit of the city, he expresses, “I feel at home in Columbus. There’s everything here – it’s so inclusive, it’s crazy. It’s so comfortable. The businesses here help lift each other up.” This sense of unity and support among local businesses is a testament to the vibrant and inclusive community that Columbus fosters. The owner speaks highly of the mentorship, advice, and support he has received from fellow business owners, emphasizing that he has never been disrespected by another entrepreneur in the city. In fact, the collaborative nature of the community extends beyond mere business transactions, with restaurant owners even celebrating birthdays at Bodega 1205. Such camaraderie underscores the true essence of Columbus and lays the foundation for the success of Downtown Market.
The creation of Downtown Market has been a long-held dream, with its origins tracing back four years, when the owners initially envisioned Bodega 1205 itself being a real downtown market for picking up daily foodstuffs – fitting, as “bodega” means store or market in Spanish. Though Bodega 1205 has blossomed into a bustling brunch location, it is Cesar and his wife Jossy’s dream to still see their market become a reality.
Nestled within the Empire Building, a cherished landmark dating back to 1896, Downtown Market will breathe new life into a space that has witnessed the transformation of various establishments over the years, from a bank to a Subway and even a strip club called The Pillow Talk Lounge. Cesar’s initial interest in the historic building actually stemmed from this tiny corner store, where he could see his dreams coming to life. This cherished location, brimming with charm and character, provides the perfect backdrop for the owners’ vision of a vibrant culinary hub in the heart of downtown Columbus.
Downtown Market’s commitment to the community is exemplified through its carefully curated offerings. In addition to an array of Grab & Go healthy options, the same offered at Bodega, the market will boast a bountiful salad bar, a tantalizing selection of cold and hot sandwiches, and a thoughtfully curated collection of beer and wine. The owners also recognize the convenience of providing essential groceries to the local community, ensuring that household staples such as eggs, olive oil, hot sauce, and rice are readily available, albeit in smaller packaging to cater to the needs of small families and local residents. Their dedication to fairness and affordability ensures that Downtown Market is accessible to all.
What sets Downtown Market apart is its ultimate purpose – to nurture the community it serves. Cesar emphasizes that the market is not only a place to shop and dine but also a space where individuals can connect and thrive together. The market is designed to be a conduit for feedback, ideas, and collaboration with the community. In fact, the owner actively seeks input from customers, inviting them to shape the market according to their desires and needs. By placing the community at the forefront, Downtown Market aims to become a true reflection of the aspirations and flavors that make Columbus special.
By sourcing fresh ingredients from local farmers’ markets, the restaurant ensures an uncompromising commitment to quality that enhances each dish. The owners express their gratitude for the opportunity to not only serve the community but also to share their vibrant culture with the city. Their motto, “Cuando estás aquí, eres familia” (When you’re here, you’re family), epitomizes the warm and inclusive atmosphere they strive to create.
This vibrant culinary haven, born out of passion and dedication, is poised to become a community-centric destination where the spirit of Columbus flourishes. It is a testament to the unwavering commitment of its owners, who view the market not merely as a business venture, but as a means to build connections, celebrate diversity, and create a culinary legacy that resonates with the heart and soul of the city they call home.
By Sarah Algoe