A Giant Food Stores in Springettsbury Township began serving beer Friday, just in time for Memorial Day.

The grocery chain's new Marketplace Café - originally expected to open in early June - opened this week at the 2415 E. Market St. location, according to a company spokesman.

Café hours are 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday.

Giant officials said the 32-seat café and lounge recently received final approval from the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board and can begin selling national and imported beers, along with hot and cold subs and paninis, baked goods, coffee and more. The grocery chain's liquor license permits customers to purchase two six-packs of beer at a time for carryout.

Additionally, a remodeled deli, sushi, Chinese food and carryout areas opened three weeks ago, and a revamped bakery department is also open.

In mid-June, healthy, natural and organic aisles will be completed, while finishing touches are made on the molding and décor, according to Chris Brand, the chain's manager of community and public relations.He did not disclose the cost of the project, which began in early February.

Extensive work during the four-month renovation has included an expansion of frozen food, gluten-free and organic food sections; an updated interior; new, energy-saving light fixtures; and a kiosk where customers can scan their bonus cards to find out their point balances and print coupons and recipes.

The store received an exterior facelift several years ago, but this is the first major interior overhaul since the location was built in 1994.

- Reach Candy Woodall at 505-5437 or cwoodall@yorkdispatch.com.