Trader Joe's

If you like the concept of Whole Foods, but don't like the prices then this place is a good alternative. It has relatively good selection at reasonable prices. They even have a nice flower section for those special occasions. Be sure to visit the breads and if you're lucky there will be samples of something yummy in the back. The downside of this place is that because of the small size, selection of produce and fresh items are somewhat limited. The seafood is all frozen. The produce is mostly pre-packaged. However, if you have certain dietary restrictions or want to feel like you're making good choices in buying foods, you'll want to come here. more

Although he is only willing to trade his wares for paper money or the chance to touch a small piece of plastic, I still think his products are unique enough to warrant a visit. I personally love trading for his healthy nacho cheese dip, his red tortillas, his vegetarian chili. and his cheap cans of peeled tomatoes. The customers are generally healthier/wealthier looking than your average John Safeway, so maybe the food actually works. I don't know for sure, but I do know that those frozen vegetable enchiladas and chocolate opera cakes are darn good eatin'. And the best thing is if you try something and don't like it, you can bring the half-eaten remains back for a full refund... so go crazy, try something new and potentially unpleasant to eat, you might just discover another item worth trading for. more

While I love the quality and selection of the foods at Whole Foods, the prices are often too steep. Trader Joe's provides a good alternative, selling some, but not all organic foods, and carrying many of the specialty items under their own label to keep the prices low. They offer a money back guarantee on all their items--If you taste it, and you don't like it, they'll take it back and refund your money. I've never taken anything back, but I like the philosophy. It's a store with character, too. The store is decorated with hand drawn sketches, and the boating theme carries throughout the store. They offer samples sometimes in the afternoons/ evenings. In particular, their cheese selection is excellent at very reasonable prices. more

Trader Joe's is a mecca for those that like a smaller grocery store packed with unique items, many times organic, that do not sell for an arm and a leg. Trader Joes is the famous outlet for the Two buck chuck wine from California, and it also sells a number of other wines and beers that you wouldn't most likely find elsewhere. They have wonderful dried fruits and nuts, fruit leathers, and cheeses. Their frozen foods are healthy and varied. They purchase their foods in large quantities and have good relationships with suppliers. They really do pass the savings on to the customer. more

Grocery items from organic to obscure. Many ready to eat lunch items, usually a really good sample item cooking. Wide variety of fresh as well as frozen items. Super nuts, chip and candy selection. The baked goods are fabulous-and the dog bisquits are pretty good too! Prices are much lower than I expected. more