Photos: Kendall Mega Publix is Now Open. Would You Like a Tour?

After two whole years of construction, curious Kendall and Pinecrest residents who have driven by the Briar Bay Shopping Center construction site across from the Falls will finally get to experience a new mega Publix. On Thursday, February 27, New Times was one of the very first customers at the brand new Publix Super Market at Briar Bay Shopping Center, located at 13005 SW 89th Pl., which held its grand opening at 7 a.m.

The two-story Publix is truly a sight to behold for Publix regulars, with its modern design, fresh font, sleek gray aisles and stations, and mountains of produce. However, after taking in the giant new store, we couldn't help but feel a bit disappointed. From unexpected luxury touches to a few head-scratching omissions, this isn’t just any grocery store. Here are the six best things we spotted at the brand new mega Publix Super Market at Briar Bay Shopping Center.

Six Best (and Missing) Things We Saw at the New Briar Bay Publix in Kendall

1. The Fancy Dining Room… Overlooking the Parking Lot

Ever wanted to sip a soda while gazing out at a sea of parked cars? Well, you're in luck! The new Publix boasts a sleek dining area with floor-to-ceiling windows and massive communal tables, perfect for working, eating, or staring dramatically into the distance. Bonus: fresh flowers are on every table because nothing says "romance" like a chicken tender Pub Sub with a floral centerpiece.

2. The Popcorn Station (Yes, Really)

Right next to the iconic Pub Subs, you'll find a buttered movie-theater-style popcorn station — because grocery shopping is clearly a cinematic experience. We have so many questions: Does Publix expect us to snack while we shop? Are we supposed to pair it with sushi? Either way, we're here for it.

3. The Produce Department is Absolutely Stacked

Fresh fruits, crisp veggies, and mountains of pre-cut fruit — this Publix is serving produce like never before. The watermelon and pineapple chunks are iconic as always, but now there's more of everything. It's like walking into a tropical Ultra Music Festival Z — minus the "tiki tiki" music. (IYKYK).

4. A Carb Lover's Paradise: The Bakery is Next-Level

Loaves on loaves on loaves. The bakery section is stacked with fresh bread, including brioche, challah, sourdough, and more. And don't even get us started on the new dessert items — giant cinnamon buns, maple-glazed cinnamon buns, and a mountain of tiny cannolis. It's basically heaven (if heaven smelled like fresh bread and classic Publix cake. IYKYK).

5. Publix Liquors: Small but Mighty

Nestled on the first floor, the Publix Liquors is sleek, well-stocked, and conveniently located for all your "I just survived grocery shopping" beverage needs. It's small, but hey — sometimes the best things come in tiny, well-organized packages (like those adorable mini champagne bottles).

6. Missing in Action: Publix Pours, Acai Bowls, Smoothies… and the Infamous Burrito Bar

Someone call Miami-Dade Police ASAP because we were promised a burrito station. We were teased with beer and wine on tap. We were led to believe there would be an açaí bowl and smoothie station. And yet… nothing. We are left standing, plastic Publix bag in hand, wondering where it all went wrong. At least the sushi station survived the cut.

All in all, this Publix is a wild ride, full of surprises (and missing burritos). But hey, they gave us a popcorn station, so we'll call it even... for now.

Publix Super Market at Briar Bay Shopping Center. 13005 SW 89th Pl., Miami; 305-964-4921; publix.com.