On Feb. 27, Briar Bay Shopping Center in Miami opened a two-story Publix. 

The 50-year-old strip mall originally held different shops and businesses, but most of them either shut down or relocated to fit the massive addition of Publix. Outback Steakhouse and Takee Outee are the only businesses that still remain; they are located on the right side of the mall and have been up and running despite the constant construction around them. With such curiosity, locals rushed to the store to be there for the 7 a.m. opening and formed a line outside. 

“I fully expected to be one of the first ones there, but when I saw that line, I guess I wasn’t the only one,” Miami Palmetto Senior High sophomore student Emma Parra said.

In 2022, the demolition of the mall sparked much curiosity, as the outdated Publix was said to have plans to match the modern day. For the past few years, the construction crew has worked hard to redesign the original structure, and make what it is now called a “Super Publix,” which has drawn in locals tremendously. 

“It’s so much bigger than it was before, and it’s not like your average supermarket,” Parra said. 

Features of the new Publix include an underground parking garage, as well as a second-floor dining area. The same Publix amenities are also included, such as a fully stocked bakery, deli and a full-service seafood department.