Where Sustainability Meets the City: MOM’s Opens New Store in D.C.

MOM’s Organic Market has debuted its newest store at 4250 Connecticut Avenue NW in Washington, D.C.’s Van Ness neighborhood, ushering in a fresh era of organic shopping for students, families, and eco-conscious residents alike. The 17,000-square-foot space, larger than the chain’s typical locations, opened its doors on April 4^th, 2025, following much anticipation and delays, and picked up momentum with festive opening-day celebrations full of free croissants and community buzz.

Inside, customers find wide, 10-foot aisles winding through produce displays, bulk bins and health-and-wellness offerings under mellow music – a layout designed to feel like a neighborhood market rather than a cramped city store. MOM’s commitment to sustainability stands out: it’s the only U.S. grocery chain offering 100% sustainably sourced seafood, including canned tuna, and it accepts recyclables and compost like cell phones, eyeglasses, corks and even holiday lights. Produce takes center stage with a focus on quality and local sourcing, such as regional Amish family farms and Summer Wind Farms. Bulk sections allow patrons to refill containers with spices, nuts, pasta and more, reinforcing the chain’s zero-waste ethos. Its wellness department fills shelves with organic vitamins, supplements and clean-beauty products, and staff are well-versed to help guide curious customers.

Co-developed with the University of the District of Columbia, the store anchors a new retail hub on campus that includes dedicated parking and is envisioned as a community catalyst, offering students more dynamic food options and helping energize the Connecticut Avenue corridor. University leaders have highlighted MOM’s arrival as a key element in economic development and community engagement efforts.

Founded in 1987 in Beltsville, Maryland, MOM’s Organic Market has steadily grown into the mid-Atlantic’s leading independent organic grocer. The chain champions environmental stewardship, banning plastic bottled water and disposable bags early on, powering stores with renewable energy, and backing eco-charities with grand-opening donations and recycling initiatives (wtop.com). With this Van Ness location, MOM’s continues its mission of offering healthy, sustainable food choices right where communities live, work and gather.