Mrs. Green, Meet the Fresh New Mrs. Green's in Wilton

Mrs. Green's has been around for 23 years, and many of us in the Wilton and Norwalk area are familiar with the 950 High Ridge Rd. location just down the Merritt in Stamford.

The spanking new Mrs. Green's in Wilton also boasts a unique selection of healthy food, a dine-in area and prepared food options. But that's where comparison stops.

Stamford customers won't recognize Mrs. Green's when they step inside the new Wilton store in Gateway Center. Not only is the store vast, with its multi-story ceilings and wide aisles, but its chalk-and-slate theme promises local, in-season selections that change daily.

Mrs. Green's digital media manager, Jack Reeves described the Wilton location as "our template, our refreshed model store." 

Its sheer size accommodates a tremendous array of choices ranging from organic pet food to gluten-free pancake mix.

According to Reeves a customer can just ask any associate if they'd like to try a product. "Last week we had a lot of customers asking to try the Delicious Monster, or deliciosa monstera, which is a fruit native to Mexico and Central America."    

"The produce is all organic," said Reeves. "There is no need to double-check or ask." Reeves explained that customers accustomed to multiple trips to specialty stores for organic, gluten-free or kosher items, it's possible to accomplish multiple errands in one visit to Mrs. Green's.

There is even an aisle with options for dry and canned organic pet food, as well as three "Natural Living" aisles with a curated selection of items ranging from supplements  from supplements to beauty products.   

The store's dine-in area, which features free Wi-Fi, will also serve as a multi-purpose space where, for example, the store's nutritionist will host lunch-and-learn sessions. According to Reeves, the abundant tables have begun to attract office workers at lunchtime.   

"We are a welcoming, neighborly place where moms can come with their kids or relax after dropping them at school. People can stay as long as they like," said Reeves.

There is even a Kids Corner where, for a quarter in the piggy bank, your wee one can help herself to a dixie cup of baby carrots or apple slices. This Tuesday, a quarter bought a juicy plum. And, just for the asking, every kid receives a free, warm cookie during their visit.

Just inside the main entrance is the coffee bar, plus organic fruit and vegetable juice and smoothies counter. Just beyond the beverages is the bakery, where, according to baker Mary Maher, staff are constantly sampling goodies for customers.

Press further and customers may be overwhelmed by the array of hot prepared dishes, flanked by a row of chilled to-go meals and sandwiches. 

All the carts have a purpose-built cup holder, which is handy if the first stop results in a coffee, juice or smoothie. Fast forward to the checkout area where a computer kiosk invites customer feedback and a $50.00 purchase results in a free recyclable bag. The last decision is whether to have your receipt emailed to you or printed on paper. 

At least for the first visit, a new customer might want to budget some extra time just to absorb the concept, ask questions, and try some samples. 

Mrs. Green's Natural Market is located at 14 Danbury Rd. in Gateway Center in Wilton. Open Monday through Sunday, from 6:00am - 10:00pm. Tel. 203-423-2233.  Find Mrs. Green's on Facebook.