New Publix gourmet cuisine out of this World

Publix is further exploring the gourmet side of deli. In a store opened on April 12 in Lakeland, Fla., the supermarket operator debuted the World Culinary Cuisine prepared foods program that includes Asian and Mediterranean food presentations as well as soup and sandwich stations.

The program includes nine different elements, and it will be evaluated by component and in its entirety for potential rollout in other Publix supermarkets.

“This is something brand new for us in Publix,” said spokeswoman Maria Brous. “We’ll gain valuable knowledge about what works well. As we open additional locations and remodels, we’ll see what might do well in different stores.”

The new gourmet offerings are in addition to the traditional, already upscale assortment consumers find in Publix’ deli operation.

According to Publix, the new 51,000-square-foot Lakeland store devotes 4,500 square feet to the World Culinary Cuisine prepared foods “experience,” which will include more than 80 entrees to satisfy a range of tastes and occasions. Everything is distinctly organized. The Pacific Wok selection of Asian specialties includes Kung Pao scallops and Mongolian beef while the Mediterranean Oven features old-world-style pizza and roasted entrees, with the entire offering inspired by the cuisines of Italy, Greece and Spain. Handcrafted sandwiches feature Artisan breads stacked with slow cooked deli meats and gourmet cheeses and the Soup Station provides six freshly prepared, chef-inspired soup creations.

Among the other prepared food trends is The Grill, offering cooked-to-order favorites from curiyaki salmon to churrasco steaks. The Carvery includes hickory-and molasses-crusted tenderloin of beef and other meat and seafood selections. Chef’s Selections showcases chef-prepared specialties while custom salads provides healthy greens made to order. And a Coffee Bar tempts with Van Houtte coffees, hot chocolate and frozen fruit drinks.

Brous said Publix customers have grown to rely on the supermarket operator’s deli to deliver high quality, wholesome foods conveniently.

With the World Culinary Cuisine line, Publix was ready to push the envelope a bit, but with the goal of enhancing family life.

“The line is much more experimental,” Brous said. “We looked at popular cuisines and what we know about the customer base to determine direction.… It competes with casual restaurants but enhances the convenience so consumers will be able to take their food home without waiting and eat around the dinner table.”

Price points for World Culinary Cuisine meals range between $7.99 and $11.