Toro Meat Market is preparing to open a new grocery store in downtown Columbus, Ohio, bringing its selection of fresh meats, Latin American groceries and prepared foods to the ground floor of the Continental Building at 150 E. Gay St.
Originally expected to open in fall 2025, the new location is now targeting a fall 2026 debut, with November reportedly being considered for the opening According to Columbus Underground, Toro Meat Market’s downtown location is awaiting final building and health inspections.
A November 2026 opening is currently planned, although an official opening date has not been confirmed.
The downtown location will mark another step in the growth of Toro Meat Market, a locally based grocery business founded by Fernando Alcauter in 2022. The company has expanded across Central Ohio with stores offering fresh meat, produce, pantry staples and specialty products serving Hispanic and Latin American communities.
Toro Meat Market is known for its full-service butcher counters, which feature cuts of beef, pork and poultry, along with specialty meats and house-made chorizo. Its grocery selection includes fresh produce, dairy, bakery goods, spices, tortillas, specialty cheeses, snacks and imported Mexican and Central American products. Some locations also offer hot prepared foods and ready-to-eat meals.
The new downtown store is planned as an expanded market experience rather than a traditional butcher shop alone. According to the original announcement, the location is expected to feature fresh produce, a full-service butcher counter, prepared foods, a bakery, household essentials, a coffee shop and a bar. The business has described the space as a neighborhood hub where residents and visitors can shop, eat and gather.
The store will occupy space on the ground floor of the Continental Building, which was converted from office space into residences. Its arrival is part of the Ground Floor Growth Initiative, a partnership involving Downtown Columbus Inc., the Columbus Empowerment Corporation and city leadership. The program supports small businesses opening brick-and-mortar locations downtown through rent assistance and technical support.
The initiative aims to bring more everyday services and shopping options into downtown Columbus as the area continues to develop as a residential neighborhood. Toro Meat Market’s new location is expected to give nearby residents another option for purchasing fresh groceries and specialty ingredients without traveling to other parts of the city.
While the store’s build-out has progressed, the final inspection process remains a key step before opening. Toro Meat Market has not announced a confirmed grand-opening date.
WhatNow will update this article as more information becomes available.
