Something about this tells me it's somewhere between Whole Foods and Central Market as far as "you want this amount of money for THIS?" goes

1: True, but they're also called "convenience store prices," and having Central Market variety even at gas-station prices will be glorious (for those who can afford the convenience).

Its 4 blocks away from the M Street Grocery that closed last year. So its not so much as getting a new grocery store, but getting one back. Given that it appears to be on the retail floor of a hospital, the prices will probably be as expensive as the old M Street Grocery. As you know, most residents on First Hill dont care how expensive the food is as they're already paying 1,500 minimum for a 1 bedroom apt.

M Street didn't fail, they got kicked out...and the space sits empty still. What a waste. Those of us who lived nearby really miss it.

M Street did not succeed for two reasons. The lease holder didn't really want to work with M Street and M Street didn't want to negotiate. How else can you explain a store just giving up one day and moving everything out the next. The space that M Street vacated is still empty and has been for many months. I don't know how a landlord can afford to do business with a huge vacant property for months, but evidently the owners of that property doesn't care or mayby just doesn't give a shit.

So where did M Street move to? If they didnt want to pay rent there, surely they found a cheaper place to operate, right?

This should be awesome. I shouldn't have to walk to Hau Hau if I want groceries.

Ok, had a visit. Some items were expensive, as expected, but friendly staff, good selection of fresh and canned options, and happy to not require the rotten-produce bodegas in the area if I need anything. It won't supplant TJs for everything, but for a lot of last-minute meals, I think it'll do fine.