After more than a decade of vacancy, the long-abandoned Dairy Queen at 6 Chestnut Street in Ashland has found new life as a vibrant Brazilian meat market and grocery store. The completely transformed property officially opened its doors in late April.

Texas Market brings a fresh, modern aesthetic to the once-forgotten lot. Gone is the run down facade of the old ice cream shop; in its place stands a sleek, welcoming storefront and contemporary signage.

Inside, the store offers a wide variety of traditional Brazilian groceries. But the star attraction is the full-service butcher counter, where customers can purchase freshly cut meats popular in Brazilian cuisine.

The renovation was extensive. The entire building was gutted and rebuilt from the ground up, with omodern fixtures and improved parking access. Community members have expressed excitement not just for the new shopping option, but for the revitalization of a prominent property that had become an eyesore.

Texas Meat Market is now open seven days a week 8am-9pm, 6 Chestnut Street, Ashland. 508-333-9530.