The tides have been turning on New York City's grocery store ecosystem for some time. 

We used to have a good variety of giant markets dating back to an age long before big box super stores. Slowly, though, the face of NYC groceries has changed from small, ethnic markets and huge operations towards the cramped, organic food store model.

With the introduction of three Whole Foods locations within NYC, things have now changed even more. Your local high quality food store is feeling the squeeze, as is the bodega.

There have been around 75 bodegas to close this year alone. 

Furthermore, groceries like Gristedes' profits are so thin that they're laying off produce workers, apparently because of the loss of income due to street side fruit retailers popping up in front of their doors. 

Now, the trend even hit a NYC's most stunning market: Bridgemarket's Food Emporium. What makes this place so special? Mainly, the building in which the market has thrived since 1999.

Businesses come and go every day, especially in the dog-eat-dog climate of NYC. Unfortunately, New Yorkers now have one less gorgeous venue in which to shop, for the time being at least. 

Nestled underneath the Queensborough Bridge, the century-old vaulted ceiling, designed by Raphael Gustavino, Food Emporium, closed its doors on Saturday at 5 p.m.

If the design looks familiar, you may recognize Gustavino's style from NYC's most beautiful subway station, underneath City Hall. It's complete with skylights and vaulted ceilings. 

If you missed out on its closing, don't fret. There's probably a fruit cart set up somewhere nearby... cheers! 

Check out 12 Kitchen Hacks for Your NYC Apartment. 

[via Bloomberg News]