Former Rio Grande DMV building now home to surprising new business

How many times have you driven past a business plaza or shopping mall and recall all the places that used to be there, and then you look closer to see what actually is there now?

For me, one of those locations in South Jersey is the ShopRite Rio Grande Shopping Plaza, on Route 47, just a tenth of a mile from Garden State Parkway Exit 4. The oldest ShopRite in Cape May County has been operating for over three decades, just a few minutes west of the world-famous Wildwood Boardwalk.

But while the ShopRite supermarket has been a staple of Rio Grande, most of the other stores in the shopping plaza have changed. There used to be a Peebles Department Store, a Hallmark storefront, a Radio Shack, a Sears Hardware Store, a Jamesway Department Store, and if you are old enough, the New Jersey Division of Motor Vehicles had a location here!

New Business Has Opened In The Rio Grande Shopping Plaza

Speaking of where the old NJ DMV was 16 years ago, Unit C5 has new tenants who opened a new storefront just a few weeks ago.

Bliss Bowls & Smoothies makes healthy fruit-based bowls and smoothie drinks made-to-order on-site. They also serve Detox Shots, and chocolate protein bowls. According to their website:

"Our business was born from a passion for wellness and a love for clean, vibrant flavors. With a background in healthcare and a health-conscious lifestyle, we were inspired to create something our community could truly benefit from. We specialize in smoothie bowls, fresh juices, fruit-based desserts, and detox shots—all made with homemade, mostly organic ingredients. Everything is vegetarian-friendly and free from artificial preservatives, with a strong focus on real food that fuels both the body and mind. Each item is crafted with care, offering a perfect balance of taste and nutrition. Whether you are looking for a post-workout bowl, a quick breakfast, or a healthy treat, we have something just for you."

While I am excited to see more healthy, real food options being offered by this new business, it will take some getting used to seeing Bliss Bowls & Smoothies where the Motor Vehicle Services Agency used to operate in the space where I took my driver's test decades ago.

In case you were wondering, the Xfinity Store in Rio Grande is in the space where the Peebles Department Store used to be in the Rio Grande Shopping Plaza.