A snip of extra-large golden scissors slicing through a bright red ribbon ushered in the ceremonial opening of Sakura Market, a new Japanese grocery store and food market in downtown San Jose on Friday morning.
Against a backdrop of enormous pink flower arrangements on easels and pink-and-white balloon pillars, business and city officials gave speeches to celebrate the new addition to downtown, while a line of people wrapped around the corner and down the street from Sakura Market, eager to collect on promised free giveaways.
The market combines aspects of the Japanese “kombini” — a convenience store offering efficient access to fresh food and snacks alongside household staples — with a cafe and dining options…