Exhibit 23


                         CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS


We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement (Form
S-8 number 33-56626) pertaining to the Marsh Supermarkets, Inc. 401(k) Plan of
our report dated June 7, 2003, with respect to the financial statements and
schedules of the Marsh Supermarkets, Inc. 401 (k) Plan included in this Annual
Report (Form 11-K) for the year ended December 31, 2002.



                                            Ernst & Young LLP


Indianapolis, Indiana
June 27, 2003