5 Jaw-Dropping Facts About Dorothy Lane Market Mason: The Massive New Cincinnati Store

The highly anticipated Dorothy Lane Market (DLM) in Mason, Ohio, is officially open, marking a significant milestone for the beloved gourmet grocer. This new location, which celebrated its grand opening on Wednesday, August 20, is not just another grocery store; it is the largest DLM to date and the company’s first venture into the competitive Cincinnati area market. The store is a testament to the Mayne family's decades-long commitment to quality food and an exceptional shopping experience. The opening, which occurred well before the current date of December 17, 2025, has reshaped the retail landscape at the corner of Mason Montgomery Road and the newly constructed Veterans Parkway. Shoppers are now flocking to experience the store’s impressive size and unique features, solidifying DLM’s reputation as a destination for food lovers.

The Mayne Family Legacy: A Biography of Dorothy Lane Market’s Founders

Dorothy Lane Market is a rare success story in the modern retail world, remaining a family-owned independent grocer for over 75 years. The company's deep-rooted history and commitment to quality are central to its identity.

• Founders: The story began in 1948 when Calvin D. Mayne and Frank Y. Sakada opened a humble fruit stand in Dayton, Ohio.
• The Matriarch: For most of the company's history, the majority owner was Calvin's wife and Norman's mother, Vera Jane Mayne. She was instrumental in strengthening the company's core values of quality, service, and community.
• Second Generation: Calvin and Vera Mayne’s son, Norman Mayne, was born in 1947 and later grew up to lead the company.
• Current Ownership: DLM is currently owned and operated by the Mayne family, now in its fourth generation of leadership.
• Growth: The Mason store is the fourth location, following the original fruit stand and subsequent stores in Oakwood, Washington Square, and Springboro, cementing its status as a premier gourmet grocery chain.

This multi-generational dedication ensures that the new Mason location adheres to the high standards of food quality and customer service that DLM is famous for.

The Grand Opening: Date, Location, and Significance

The Dorothy Lane Market Mason opening was one of the most highly anticipated retail events in the Greater Cincinnati area. It marked a new chapter for the Dayton-based company. The grand opening took place on Wednesday, August 20, at 10 a.m., drawing large crowds eager to explore the expansive new store.

Location in a Thriving Mixed-Use Community

The store is strategically located at 7200 Mason Montgomery Road, situated at the intersection with Veterans Parkway. This location is significant because the new DLM is a key anchor in a massive $150 million mixed-use planned community in Mason. This development is designed to feature a blend of retail, residential, and commercial spaces, making DLM a central hub for the entire area.

The First Cincinnati Footprint

For decades, DLM was primarily a Dayton-area institution. The Mason store represents the company’s first official footprint in the Cincinnati metro area. This expansion has been met with excitement from Cincinnati food enthusiasts who previously had to travel north to experience the DLM difference. The store aims to bring its signature "incredible food" to a new audience.

DLM Mason Store Features: What Makes It the Largest and Most Unique

The Mason location is not just bigger; it was designed to be the ultimate expression of the Dorothy Lane Market experience, incorporating the best of their existing stores and adding new, exciting elements.

1. Record-Breaking Size and Scale

At 59,000 total square feet, the Mason store is officially the largest in the Dorothy Lane Market family. The design includes a massive 50,000-square-foot main level dedicated to the grocery shopping experience. Above this, a sprawling 9,000-square-foot mezzanine offers additional space for dining, seating, and special events. This large scale allows for an expanded selection of products and a more comfortable, upscale shopping environment.

2. The Gourmet Food Destination

DLM is renowned for its focus on specialty and gourmet items, and the Mason store elevates this tradition. Shoppers can expect to find an incredible array of high-quality, prepared foods, making it a destination for both quick meals and elaborate entertaining. Key features include:

• The DLM Bakehouse: A dedicated section for the market's famous, freshly made baked goods, including the dough for their in-store pizzas.
• In-Store Pizza: Customers can order pizzas made with great care and skill, featuring fresh toppings and DLM Bakehouse crust.
• Specialty Meats: The meat department is a highlight, featuring premium selections like DLM American Wagyu Beef.
• Prepared Meals: The store welcomes guests to sit down, unwind, and enjoy an array of prepared dishes, catering to the busy lifestyles of the Mason community.

3. Upscale and Inviting Design

The design of the Mason store was meticulously planned to be both upscale and inviting. The architecture and interior layout encourage a leisurely, enjoyable shopping trip rather than a rushed chore. It aims to enhance the local retail landscape by providing a unique shopping experience that is a step above traditional supermarkets.

4. A Hub for the Local Community

As a locally owned and operated business, DLM’s entry into Mason has been seen as an incredible asset to the community. The store’s presence is expected to enhance the local economy and provide a new center for food and social interaction within the mixed-use development.

5. Worth the Price Tag

While some shoppers note that Dorothy Lane Market is generally considered an expensive option for everyday groceries, the consensus is that the quality and unique offerings justify the cost. DLM is viewed as a place to shop for "new and exciting things" and specialty items, rather than a store for bulk, everyday purchases. The Mason store continues this tradition, offering an elevated experience for those with a passion for fine food. The successful opening of the Dorothy Lane Market Mason location solidifies its position as a major player in the Ohio gourmet grocery scene. It is a must-visit destination for anyone in the Cincinnati area looking for the finest ingredients, exceptional prepared foods, and a truly unique retail experience.