If you’ve driven down Route 70 in South Jersey lately, you’ve probably felt that familiar twinge of annoyance mixed with genuine anticipation. The H Mart Cherry Hill location has been a landmark for decades, but if we’re being honest, it was starting to feel a bit... tired. The narrow aisles, the slightly dim lighting, and that lived-in scent of fermented cabbage and fresh seafood—it was charming in a "hoarder’s basement" kind of way, as some locals joked, but it was definitely time for a change.
Well, the wait is almost over.
The massive renovation that kicked off in 2025 has been the talk of every South Jersey subreddit and neighborhood Facebook group. People aren't just looking for groceries; they're looking for an experience. We’re talking about a complete overhaul that transforms a 24-year-old supermarket into a modern food destination.
The Glow-Up: What’s Actually Changing at H Mart Cherry Hill
Forget everything you remember about the old layout. The most significant update is the addition of a second-floor food hall. For years, the Cherry Hill spot felt like the "quiet cousin" to the massive, bustling H Marts in Edison or Upper Darby. Not anymore.
The new floor plan includes an open-concept food court where you can finally grab a seat and dive into a bowl of jjamppong (spicy seafood noodles) without balancing a tray on your knees in the parking lot. One of the biggest wins for the community is the confirmed arrival of Paris Baguette. Having that signature bakery right inside the store means you can grab a milk bread loaf or a strawberry shortcake while you wait for your grocery cart to be rung up.
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Why the Renovation Took So Long
Renovations in Jersey are never fast. This project involved expanding the footprint of the original 1720 Marlton Pike E building, which meant dealing with the Township Planning Board and overhauling ancient plumbing and electrical systems.
It's been frustrating for regulars who had to trek across the bridge to Philly or up to Edison just to get their fix of Shin Ramyun Black or fresh sliced ribeye for bulgogi. But the "disrepair" that some shoppers complained about in 2024 is being scrubbed away. The goal is a clean, bright, and—most importantly—spacious shopping environment.
The Essentials: What to Buy When the Doors Open
Even with a fancy new second floor, the soul of H Mart Cherry Hill remains the grocery aisles. If you're new to the H Mart world, it can be overwhelming. Thousands of products, many with labels you might not recognize, can lead to some "analysis paralysis."
Basically, you’ve gotta have a game plan.
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- The Produce Section: This is usually the first thing you hit. Look for the massive Korean pears (the size of softballs) and the bags of peeled garlic. It’s a huge time-saver.
- The Meat Counter: Honestly, the quality of the thinly sliced meats here is unbeatable for the price. Whether you’re doing K-BBQ at home or just want some high-quality brisket for a stew, this is the spot.
- The Kimchi Wall: Don't just grab the first jar you see. There’s a hierarchy. There’s the "country-style" cubed radish (kkakduki), the young "bachelor" radish (chonggak), and the standard napa cabbage. If you can, buy the H Mart house-made brand. It’s usually fresher than the mass-produced jars.
- Snack Aisle: You can’t leave without Shrimp Crackers or Honey Twist snacks. And if you see the Melona bars in the freezer, just buy the box. You’ll regret only getting one.
Addressing the "Expired" Rumors and Real Talk
Look, no store is perfect. Before the renovation, some shoppers noted that certain items, especially in the drink or snack aisles, were nearing their "best by" dates. It’s a common issue in massive international supermarkets where turnover for specific niche items can be slower.
The "South Jersey" way is to be brutally honest: Always check your dates.
However, with the 2026 relaunch, the inventory is entirely fresh. The management has been vocal about improving quality control to match the "upscale" vibe of the new renovation. They know they have competition now, with places like Hung Vuong Food Market on Brace Road pulling in a lot of the local traffic during the H Mart closure.
The Food Court Strategy
When the food hall finally opens, it’s going to be packed. If you’re heading there on a Saturday afternoon, you’re basically entering a combat zone for parking and seating.
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The move is to go on a weekday if you can. The spicy tuna triangle kimbap from the Kim Ga Nae stall is a legendary quick lunch for under $7. It’s rice-to-filling perfection. On the flip side, some locals suggest skipping the basic bulgogi rice bowls if they look like they’ve been sitting under a heat lamp—go for the made-to-order soups or the Korean popcorn chicken instead.
Parking Tips (You’ll Need Them)
The parking lot at 1720 NJ-70 has always been a bit of a nightmare. It’s narrow, and people in Cherry Hill drive like they’re in a Fast & Furious sequel.
- Don’t fight for the front row. Just park toward the back near the exit. It’ll save you ten minutes of idling.
- Watch the carts. The lot isn't perfectly level, and stray carts love to find car doors.
- Use the side entrance. If the Route 70 entrance is backed up, try navigating through the side streets to enter from the back.
Is it worth the hype?
Honestly, yeah. H Mart Cherry Hill isn't just a grocery store; it's a cultural hub for South Jersey. It’s where you go when you want to feel a connection to something broader than a standard American supermarket. Whether you're a home cook looking for specific fermented soybean paste (doenjang) or just a college student looking for the best instant ramen selection in the tri-state area, this place delivers.
The renovation might have taken its sweet time, but the addition of the second-floor hall and the Paris Baguette makes it a legitimate destination again. It’s no longer just a place to run in and out of; it’s a place to hang out.
Actionable Next Steps for Your Visit:
- Download the H Mart Smart Card App: If you’re going to spend more than $50 (and you will), the points actually add up to real certificates.
- Check the Weekly Circular: They usually post their sales on the official H Mart website on Fridays. The seafood sales—specifically on live lobster or blue crab—can be insane.
- Plan for 90 Minutes: Between the new second floor and the expanded aisles, you’re going to want time to browse without feeling rushed by the Sunday crowd.
- Bring an Insulated Bag: If you’re buying frozen dumplings or sliced meats, the NJ heat (or the blast of your car's heater) will ruin them before you get home to Marlton or Voorhees.