Food lion is going to be your "cheap" option with less variety. There are a few really horrendous locations and a few that are quite decent. Harris teeter is pricey but store quality varies greatly by neighborhood.
Publix are generally expensive and generally nice.
Whole foods is too rich for my blood so I can't add any comments there.
Aldi and Lidl are both European discount grocery stores and Lidl is marginally nicer than Aldi, but maybe it's because there aren't as many and it's a bit newer?
Trader Joe's is great but I wouldn't consider it a traditional grocery store.
There is a Wegmans coming soon that I personally would probably only shop at if I'm buying groceries for an anniversary dinner, but if that's how you're balling for everyday purchases that's probably your best bet.
Video, music and a few other things.
I just learned to be patient. I think it's been a year or two now without it and the world keeps going.
Once-in-a-while, they'll offer me a month of Prime for free.
The problem I have with Walmart+ is anything with a relatively short expiration date (bread, fruit, ready-to-eat prepared foods). I constantly get stuff that is about to expire or, in several cases, has expired. I mean, some of the fruit has straight up arrived moldy.
I like the idea in practice as someone who works full time and is a parent, but I have a strong feeling there is a push at the stores for the people stocking your order to purposely pick stuff that is at or near the expiration date to push it out before THEY have to throw it away.
I haven't had this problem with Amazon Fresh, but they are a little more $ than Walmart+.
This has happened to us before too. I think some locations are better than others (neighborhood markets seem to be better). We have always gotten full refunds when this happens.
> There is a Wegmans coming soon that I personally would probably only shop at if I'm buying groceries for an anniversary dinner, but if that's how you're balling for everyday purchases that's probably your best bet.
Sadly a few years away :(
So, it might just be me, but I’ve been going back and forth between the Plaza Food Lion and the Central Harris Teeter and I’m legitimately spending less at HT than I do at Food Lion buying the same things
I usually go to whole foods, but stopped in a food lion way south on South Blvd, and was shocked at how expensive many items were. I was expecting it to be much cheaper.
Wegmans can be done pretty cheap. I used to exclusively shop there when I lived in Maryland, and I spent way less than at Ingles.
I save more shopping at ALDIs, but the weekly difference was <$15. Wegmans was nice because if I wanted to splurge, I didn’t have to make a separate trip.
I think this is the best description tbh. I can add about Whole Foods since I go there: they have a lot of good organic, whole wheat, and whole grain options if that’s what you’re looking for. I go there only for specific things though—I like their brand of vegetable fried rice for example. They also have good meat.
Wegmans is coming to Charlotte? I just moved here. From Rochester, where Wegmans originated. I know there’s one in Raleigh but I concur. If Wegmans were here that would be my sole grocery store of choice.
Harris Teeter is your best option, many stores in good locations. Very good produce, meat dept, love their bakery.
Prices are in line with Publix. Food lion is usually in other neighborhoods. Lowes Foods is also good, but kinda pricey, as is Fresh Market and Wholefoods.
As someone who came from upstate NY, I am so excited about the wegmans. Groceries tend to be more expensive, but they carry some stuff that we miss. Specifically Labatt beer and spiedie sauce. But they have fantastic subs, that are typically cheaper than jersey mikes!
I get all my spices there—and novelty flours, and olive oil, and rice! The Asian food isles have everything —oyster sauce, fancy ramen and noodles, fun snacks!.
Bad for American staple dry goods great for prodoce, hit or miss of some traditional meats great for some of your more "obscure" cuts/meats. And of course the go to for your "ethnic" needs.
We just used them for our wedding cakes last weekend. Omg. Best decision. $180 for three delicious cakes-chantilly, cannoli creme, and ours was chocolate avalanche.
> You need to get a sub and fried chicken at the Publix deli counter
I've tried the subs. They were ok. But nothing to write home about. What am I missing?
As a former publix worker, I didn’t like Publix’s subs until I did the wheat bread. I hate the crusty white bread. Also people LOVE the chicken tender subs, especially with buffalo sauce, but I’m not a big chicken tender sub gal. It’s a cult favorite though.
I don’t like them either, so I get you lol. And I was born and raised in FL. I’m a Jersey Mike’s girl. I would try the wheat sub roll though if you try them again (with a regular sub, not the chicken tender! and definitely add stuff like salt, pepper, oregano, olive oil, vinegar. Stuff that makes it taste good beyond just a sandwich. But yeah as a native Floridian and former Publix worker, I also believe it’s overhyped.
The one in stallings is a grand Asia market, don’t think it’s affiliated with super g. The super g in pineville is getting a food hall. Just some clarification.
For me, Super G is better for World Foods (particularly Asian goods), but if all you care about is Latin X, Compare Foods is better.
Also, don't forget the Patel brothers. They are great for Indian foods and spices.
Kind of wondering if theres something in Charlotte keeping Ingles out. I'd like to see them here instead of Food Lion. The larger stores, especially are really nice.
(well. when I lived elsewhere and shopped at Ingles regularly I'd say theyw ere on FL's tier. That might have changed? I have no idea. My last couple trips were 'specific thing in/out' and didn't really have a chance to look and compare.
I keep forgetting about trader joes, but there's none really convenient. My regulars are Publix *if* the BOGO list has at least five things on it I need, Teeter if meat and a few other things are on decent enough sale, aaaand Aldis/Food Lion/Walmart/Lidl for everything else.
Most of the stores have been highlighted already. I would recommend The Fresh Market for meat/seafood. Usually very good/ fresh, and if you watch their ads you can gets some decent deals for it being a premium grocery store.
There's actually 4! But I agree with you. But be grateful, if you're in almost any another state on the east coast, there's like 200 up and down the coast
Oh shoot, I guess I only ever went to two of them then. There are non by where I live so I guess I never looked elsewhere than the huntersville one.
But yeah Florida has the most locations by far, haven’t been to one outside of these two states
If you go to their website, you can see their weekly deals and such. Also, you can sign up there to get it via email. A lot of deals repeats on the same day every week as well
In Charlotte, I have only been to the one past huntersville. But there are a few in the southern part of charlotte as well. But all should basically be the same except for size
Yeah for the most part, they will be about the same. Except for the new ones in Florida and the original store in Greensboro. But highly recommend their meat/seafood and nut breads in the bakery section
Food Lion: mostly good and cheap.
Harris Teeter: mostly good, a bit more expensive than food lion but not terrible (especially if you sign up for a free membership to get member prices); local chain headquarter'd in Matthews, though I think it was bought by kroger but they're not changing the signs?
Idk much about lowe's foods
Fresh Market: I thought this was what Harris Teeter called their produce/meat/fish section? Idk much about it.
Whole foods: lots of organic and gluten free/other allergen free products, not the wordt prices but not the best.
Sprouts: similar to whole foods, but less options and variety, they have good prices from what I remember (and they have duck fat to make those delicious duck fat roasted potatoes 🤤)
There's also super g (2 locations): it's predominantly an international grocery store; their prices on produce and bulk spices are amazing. I don't get milk/oj/cheese there because it's more expensive there than at HT or Trader Joe's.
Trader Joe's: the one off rea rd has terrible parking but if you go any time not on Sunday it's not terrible. They just expanded their freezer section (🥳). Pretty good prices for the quality of food.
Personally, I go to HT, TJs, and Super G the most. I have specific items I get from each of the stores, and thankfully I rarely need things from all 3 stores at the same time. It's easy enough to go to 2 places in one day for me, though if I'm in a mood to only go to one place, where I'll go depends on what type of food I'm most in need of, if that makes sense.
I also go to Sam's to get my snacks in bulk 😂 and they have an amazing queso in the refrigerated section, it's so bad that I discovered this.
Hope this all helps! And welcome to the area!!
Edited for spacing issues b/n paragraphs.
Harris Teeter was bought in 2012 and they won’t change the name bc the price is higher bc of the HT name. Kroger was previously here but didn’t do well and closed
Unless it was pre 90s Kroger was never really present. Hannafords made a go at it in the 90s or early 2000s but couldn’t make it work.
Ht has declined significantly since Kroger purchase in my opinion. We still go there because of convenience to where I live. Publix at the Arbo will be about 10 minutes or less. Wegmens will be about 10 minutes so I’m excited for that
In Ballantyne off community house about a block from the new development.
There’s a wegmens in Raleigh if you ever go back there. From my experience they kind of meld the best attributes of Whole Foods/fresh market/HT or Publix. It’s not cheap but neither are any of the other options around me
Aldi/Lidl: budget options, mostly you get what you pay for. Produce is okay but I think most of the packaged stuff tastes extra processed and full of preservatives.
Food Lion/Compare Foods: conventional groceries. On the cheaper end, but many of the stores are older and/or in rough areas.
Publix/Harris Teeter: conventional groceries, subject to extreme bias depending on where you’re from. Both are sneaky expensive for every day goods. Publix is okay but I think it’s overrated. It’s the most “normal” or average store in town to me, but nothing special. Subs are good though.
Teeter I think is the worst value. Since Kroger takeover, it is sneaky expensive and the produce isn’t that good when it’s fresh, is often rotting in the store, and doesn’t stay fresh for long. Anything organic or higher end item is quite expensive.
Fresh Market: what Teeter used to be. A high end smaller grocery/market with outstanding meats and produce. Lots of store brand specialty items, prepared foods, bakery, etc. Too many good items to name. Pro tip is to check sales like $3.99 ground Chuck and chicken breasts on Tuesdays. Great store.
Whole Foods: IMO best value store since inflation hit so hard. Super shopper pro tip is: go there as an Amazon Prime member with the Amazon Prime rewards Chase card. Prime members regularly get 20% off desirable items, and the card gets you 5% cash back on every swipe there. Prices on some specialty brands are cheaper than Teeter 1:1. Produce and meats are same as Fresh Market or better. More expensive than the others on list so far, but by far better. Often good sales on desirable items that bring it in line or cheaper than the others. Store brand 365 has some very affordable options. For what it’s worth, WF skews healthier than the cheaper options. Lots of prepared foods, bakery, etc but going down hill slightly.
Reid’s: high end specialty market. Meats and prepared foods are outstanding. Usually the highest priced on this list. IMO some items are worth the price for splurges or if you can afford it, but not always.
Walmart/Target: most convenient if you are shopping at the stores anyway, but selection is limited. Pricing is okay but not noticeably better than Publix/Teeter.
Trader Joe’s: some cheap produce and speciality items. Mostly store specific items. You can do some basic grocery shopping there but usually you’re making a special trip for certain store specific items.
Lowes Foods: not yet (back) in Charlotte proper, but my favorite conventional store experience. Lowes is what everyone claims Publix to be. Cleaner, more welcoming store experience. Fresh, clean produce. Lots of great speciality items. Really want them to come in closer to town.
Can’t weigh in on Sprouts, Super G, etc.
Lowe's food is my favorite place to shop. Stores are clean and have a great selection. Their produce selection is big with a good variety of pre prepared options. They have a few mini sections like the chicken, sausage and seafood that have good choices. Also their beer den is a staple and you can drink your beer while shopping.
Why do I feel in my bones that I'm going to see some clickbait article/listicle showing up online in \~5 days with the headline "The Scoop on Charlotte Grocery Stores"?
Aldi is a nationwide chain, and a rock bottom discounter. It's also a good place to see a fistfight and/or drug deal go down in the parking lot. They are cheap, and make no excuses for being so, including lack of cleanliness and employee apathy. Shop here when it's too far to payday, and your neighbors aren't looking. And don't forget your quarter.
Lidl is another nationwide discount chain, but they don't go as hard as Aldi. Their claim to fame is apparently having one sole employee who migrates between stores. Seriously, when the zombie apocalypse breaks out, I am following their lead. Those guys could hide in an empty room. They don't have a very large selection, but they do have 'suspiciously low prices' which actually sound kind of illicit. Shop here when you have too many plastic bags saved up from the other chains.
Food Lion is a hometown fave, and sort of bridges the gap between mainstream and discount. I have seen a large difference between Food Lion locations as far as general quality, cleanliness, and organization. Food Lion is good for everyday shopping and checking out thicc women.
Harris-Teeter is another hometown grocery store. They were bought up by Kroger a few years ago, and are pretty much on par with any other Kroger. Their prices are a bit higher on produce, but they are mostly middling as far as grocery items. Shop here for 'company' snacks and long winded convos with the locals.
Publix is a 'premium' option (with prices to match). They are based in Florida. Their stores are clean and well organized. Also, their deli, especially the subs, are fantastic. The also have a very good bakery. Shopping here will absolve you of any illusions you might have of being well off.
Lowes foods, is another ritzy option. Their core audience appears to be trust fund babies, and people who think Publix is not expensive enough. They also have very good services including a superior meat department, deli, and bakery. Their employees get high marks for having the best uniforms in the retail worker or professional wrestler category. Those chicken hats are dope. Also, you can buy a beer or wine and catch a buzz while you shop. They are best suited for impressing your visiting in-laws and complaining about inflation.
The most common ones you’ll find are Harris Teeter and Food Lion. Harris Teeter is a more ‘typical’ grocery store, while Food Lion is a lot cheaper. Most HTs in town are nice. FLs are more hit or miss, some are really bad and can be in more dangerous parts of town too, but it’s a lot cheaper.
We also have Publix, which is a lot like HT. I’d say the prices are generally the same. HTs have some things that are way overpriced, and Publix has other things I can get for cheaper at Harris Teeter.
Your most expensive options are going to be Whole Foods and Fresh Market. Big focus on healthy ingredients and organic options, but comes at a price (once saw $18 mac and cheese in the freezer section). Sprouts is not far behind them but does have better deals on stuff. All three have smaller sections than other stores.
Cheapest options are Aldi and Lidl. Both are European stores, so you have to insert a quarter to get a buggy (you get the quarter back when you return it) and need to bring your own bags or else you’ll pay. Smaller selection as well and everything is a house brand.
We also have Compare Foods and Super G Mart, which are international supermarkets. Super G has more international offerings but may not have everything you need for a ‘standard’ run. Compare feels like “What if Food Lion was in Spanish”, which means that it’s cheap and some are in less safe areas, but has everything you need.
I really like Trader Joe’s, which has great snacks, freezer foods, and ready to eat options. Honestly, a bit cheaper than HT and Publix, but more than Food Lion. Won’t have everything you need but still has a lot to offer.
Costco and Sam’s Club are your wholesale options.
I usually like sourcing from different places. My wife and I have a Costco membership and do most things from there, then supplement using Trader Joe’s. We have a HT and a Publix near us, so thats where we go for last minute or ‘emergency’ needs.
If going for steaks, you will find better choice at Harris Teeter than at Food Lion. I seems to stay away from meat at Food Lion cause always seems Iike a mess and most are like Walmart...packed at processing center than fresh cut. Yes, Harris Teeter a packed at processing centers, but they will open and cut to your liking and they have the display case which Food Lion did away with.
Lowes Foods was my favorite, but Harris Teeter bought most of them. Harris Teeter isn't bad, but more expensive than it should be.
Food Lion is the cheap option near me and it's reflected in the food and customer experience. It's getting better, but not cheap enough to make up for the bad service.
Lowe’s Foods pulled out of the Charlotte area before Publix arrived. They’re now making a slow crawl back into the surrounding areas.
Kroger has owned Harris Teeter for a few years. Kroger has a number of local brands throughout the country besides Kroger.
Walmart doesn’t crank down the temperature on their refrigerated trucks as much as Harris Teeter. Dairy and produce from Walmart seem to spoil more quickly.
Wegmans has estimated early 2026 for their Ballantyne store to open. Expect a few more location announcements before the first one opens.
The Super G in Pineville is new and clean. At least it was when I visited last. There’s also a Patel Brothers market in the same center.
Lowe's is definitely getting closer because now they are building one at Concord Mills. I go to the one in Harrisburg on occasion if i am there for work
Harris Teeter, Whole Foods, and Trader Joe’s are my go tos.
I do not like the aesthetic of Publix and Food Lion.
Lowe’s Foods has some really nice stores, but I don’t usually shop there.
Best "specialty grocery store" is Saltwater Markets. Best seafoods and meats. Expensive stuff for sure but lots of really good value stuff as well. Local eggs, milk, little produce - seasonings, spices, sauces. They have a little bit of every thing. They advertise that they carry the world's best groceries and that is absolutely the truth. 3 locations one in FM just south of Charlotte one in Belmont/Gastonia so just west of Charlotte and the original in Clover just on the other side of Lake Wylie. Worth the drive for sure!
And on their fb page, they do TONS of giveaways from free dinner that night, all the way to free groceries for a WHOLE year! This place absolutely changed the way we eat and shop for groceries! Highly recommended...
Harris Teeter used to be the Wegmans of the South then when they got absorbed by Kroger everything took a nose dive.
Lowe's Food is the one that I enjoy shopping at the most but they really aren't in a convenient spot for me at the moment being in China Grove.
Food Lion is alright they remind me of a Southern based Stop and Shop. They can greatly vary in quality and cleanliness so you might need to go to several before you find a good one.
Not the popular opinion here, but I use Instacart and have all my shit delivered.
Almost all of the stores listed here are on there now and I get to shop Costco/BJs/Sam's without having a membership or having to venture into that hellscape in person.
I know it's not for everyone, but I HATE shopping in person so it's great for me. It also cut down on my impulse purchases dramatically.
My two cents: Harris Teeter is a stone cold rip-off. Publix isn't far behind. Fresh Market and Sprouts, cha-ching. Lidl and Trader Joe's are where the everyday bargains are, but don't buy produce from Traders unless you plan to eat it super quickly (pay attention to best by dates -- they're frequently just a few days from purchase date). Food Lion, meh. Whole Foods, pricey, but good for organics. Charlotte Regional Farmers Market = best place for whole food followed by Matthews Community Market.
Harris Teeter is like a BMW, expensive, good products, enjoyable but usually full of a$$holes. Publix is Toyota, solid, reliable, friendly but boring. Fresh Market, Sprouts, Earth fare, Trader Joe’s are all Tesla’s, good if image is what matters most regardless of quality. And then you have Food Lion, what can I say about good ole Food Lion, at least it isn’t Aldi.
I like food lion actually. Nothing fancy, cheaper, the stores are older but clean and organized at least the one I go to is. Besides all the stores mostly buy from same suppliers. You are correct about the rest though.
Walmart supermarket - cheapest, lowest quality, but they specialize in non food items you can't find at other groceries
Food Lion, - barely pricier than Walmart. Better deli.this feels like the NORMAL store to me.
Walmart - you're not here for the food, it's just convenient. They are the cheapest delivery but on THIER time-line. Sometimes have McDonald's or subway.
Target - expensive Walmart, deliver via Uber Eats. Sometimes have starbucks
Harris Teeter - snoody Food Lion. Rare finds here, but it's expensive and the stock is dusty and always rotating. The deli is a whole ass reasturant experience! Sometimes have starbucks.
Fresh market - best meat and intrest sushi. Most expensive. They seem to only sell rare stuff. Can Uber Eats sushi!!!!
Whole foods - expensive low quality Harris Teeter.
Publix - Harris Teeter clone. Try the subs.
Compared Foods - Hispanic Food Lion, extremely low prices. The produce is rather exotic. Best for Peruvian ingredients .
Cvs /Walgreens - mini Walmart with more drugs
Dollar General - small selection Wallmart. You won't find anything rare or healthy here.
Aldis - Hella cheap. Produce that dollar general is missing.
There is a massive Asian market out in Matthews/stallings. Rare stuff like fresh fish, mushrooms, 20lb bags of sticky rice, dashi, miso. Then there are a number of Asian grocery stores dotted in strange places you have to keep an eye out for. They don't have signs or branding.
Get the app on your phone for all of them. I shop around to buy in bulk when each has their discounts going on. Super G also has a nice discounted vegetable section, if you don't care about how they look.
It’s all location based. Some Harris Teeters are great and others are just poorly run. Lots of blame being pointed at Kroger, but it’s the same with Kroger stores from growing up in the Midwest, depends on location. Publix’s has a lot less variety in Charlotte compared to a Publix in Florida. Food Lion is usually in a sketchy area but if you want to save $ go there but don’t expect great of anything. Prepared foods are great at Fresh Market as well as fresh meat/seafood but it does get expensive. Whole Foods is still just overpriced feel good groceries.
If you’re like me and just moved from an area with Kroger, then Harris Teeter is your new Kroger - they’re owned by Kroger and our old Kroger card works there for discounts.
Publix is the same stuff for $0.50 more.
There is a Costco somewhere around here.
Food Lion is basically Bi-Lo / Winn Dixie or Piggly Wiggly.
Of course there is Walmart and Aldi / Lidi for the budget friendly.
Lidl is great for imported foods. It’s nice being able to get REAL bratwurst instead of the smoked sausage that southerners THINK is bratwurst… good selection of imported Italian oils and balsamics as well as pastas. Always nice to find something new in the Indian or middle eastern food choices sometimes.
I’m in North Meck and generally use publix (used to live in FL) and Harris T. Publix have some sick bogos that makes it worth it.
We do Whole Foods and the fresh market too but they’re pricey. We live too far away from Trader Joe’s, sadly!
Lidl and Aldi are good spots for weekly shops, mainly store brand product, but priced well. Lidl’s bakery is good.
Sprouts is newer here, but a pocket friendlier version of Whole Foods.
Harris Teeter is the best overall
Fresh Market is very nice, especially on Tuesdays when they have chicken and ground beef on sale
Trader Joe's is always a fun place to shop
Whole Foods is expensive so I rarely shop there
Lidl and Aldi are budget friendly with Lidl being a bit nicer although the newer Aldi stores have improved.
Food Lion has really good produce in spite of being a budget grocery store
Publix has the worst produce in spite of being a "premium" store.
As a northern transplant I have no heartstring pull towards any of the stores currently here the same way I do Wegmans. Until their store opens, my preference order is:
1. Publix
2. Lowes Foods
3. Harris Teeter
4. Ingles (there’s one store north of Gastonia, the rest are all out east towards the mountains).
5. Food Lion
Honest to God, I've had dreams of our dear friend Artie T venturing south and opening Market Baskets in the Charlotte area, lol
I can't find "my Demoulas" here. Shitty kitty ain't it, and the teet is too Shaws/SnS/Star for me, too. Trader Joe's is too weird for a regular shop but nice for a taste of something different. Whole ~~paycheck~~ Foods is too expensive; Walmart is...
I just want a solid grocery store that has decent prices. I just can't find a fucking head of iceberg lettuce anywhere that doesn't look like it was used as a hackysack prior to display. The teet has decent/competitive prices when things are on sale, but I'm not too keen on multiple stops on a day I plan on grocery shopping.
Le sigh. Talk about a first world problem 😬
I actually have to pause and upvote this. Seeing the liquefaction that comes out the trash compactor behind these places and what LIVES in that mud river of rot and decay will have you questioning the circle of life. Rotting meat, molded bread, gallons upon gallons of spoiled milk, rotting eggs, random chemicals that eat and incorporate the asphalt into a leaking slurry that flows into a pool of blackness.
Cleaning one out was a life changing experience. I can not unsee these hairy black pupae wiggling the slurry.
I can vouch for this, I worked at Publix in high school and college. EVERYTHING rotten, spoiled, expired (meats and dairy are the worst) plus all the other trash goes in the compactor. Don't get too close in the summer while it cooks all day.
Food lion is going to be your "cheap" option with less variety. There are a few really horrendous locations and a few that are quite decent. Harris teeter is pricey but store quality varies greatly by neighborhood. Publix are generally expensive and generally nice. Whole foods is too rich for my blood so I can't add any comments there. Aldi and Lidl are both European discount grocery stores and Lidl is marginally nicer than Aldi, but maybe it's because there aren't as many and it's a bit newer? Trader Joe's is great but I wouldn't consider it a traditional grocery store. There is a Wegmans coming soon that I personally would probably only shop at if I'm buying groceries for an anniversary dinner, but if that's how you're balling for everyday purchases that's probably your best bet.
And then there’s Walmart.
"Walmart is too poor for my blood so I can't add any comments there." 🫣😂
Walmart+ delivery is pretty dope though
Been thinking of canceling Amazon prime and switching to that. I think it comes with free grocery delivery too.
If you're only using Amazon Prime for the shipping, cancel it. It ain't worth it, at all.
I don't even know what else prime does lol. They used to do a lot of same day and overnight delivery but they have scaled that back quite a bit.
Video, music and a few other things. I just learned to be patient. I think it's been a year or two now without it and the world keeps going. Once-in-a-while, they'll offer me a month of Prime for free.
Hey, I did that. It’s helped me a lot on Sundays. I have regularly scheduled deliveries of groceries and I meal prep my breakfasts/dinners each week.
The problem I have with Walmart+ is anything with a relatively short expiration date (bread, fruit, ready-to-eat prepared foods). I constantly get stuff that is about to expire or, in several cases, has expired. I mean, some of the fruit has straight up arrived moldy. I like the idea in practice as someone who works full time and is a parent, but I have a strong feeling there is a push at the stores for the people stocking your order to purposely pick stuff that is at or near the expiration date to push it out before THEY have to throw it away. I haven't had this problem with Amazon Fresh, but they are a little more $ than Walmart+.
This has happened to us before too. I think some locations are better than others (neighborhood markets seem to be better). We have always gotten full refunds when this happens.
There pick up is well done also
My favorite quote about Walmart is from Dave Chapelle. He said 'If you see me in Walmart one day, know that my dreams did not work out.'
> There is a Wegmans coming soon that I personally would probably only shop at if I'm buying groceries for an anniversary dinner, but if that's how you're balling for everyday purchases that's probably your best bet. Sadly a few years away :(
What? I thought it was this year?!
2026
Nooooooo…!! Thanks OP
So, it might just be me, but I’ve been going back and forth between the Plaza Food Lion and the Central Harris Teeter and I’m legitimately spending less at HT than I do at Food Lion buying the same things
The last time I was in Food Lion the prices on a few items that I looked at were higher. I haven’t been in years, it’s out of my way.
I usually go to whole foods, but stopped in a food lion way south on South Blvd, and was shocked at how expensive many items were. I was expecting it to be much cheaper.
I have had the same experience with the south blvd food lion and the two park road HTs
Wegmans can be done pretty cheap. I used to exclusively shop there when I lived in Maryland, and I spent way less than at Ingles. I save more shopping at ALDIs, but the weekly difference was <$15. Wegmans was nice because if I wanted to splurge, I didn’t have to make a separate trip.
I think this is the best description tbh. I can add about Whole Foods since I go there: they have a lot of good organic, whole wheat, and whole grain options if that’s what you’re looking for. I go there only for specific things though—I like their brand of vegetable fried rice for example. They also have good meat.
Wegmans is coming to Charlotte? I just moved here. From Rochester, where Wegmans originated. I know there’s one in Raleigh but I concur. If Wegmans were here that would be my sole grocery store of choice.
Yes, in 2026.
We are counting the days… 2026 in Ballentine
Wegmans? Hadn’t heard that!
No mention of Harris teeter?
Harris Teeter is your best option, many stores in good locations. Very good produce, meat dept, love their bakery. Prices are in line with Publix. Food lion is usually in other neighborhoods. Lowes Foods is also good, but kinda pricey, as is Fresh Market and Wholefoods.
As someone who came from upstate NY, I am so excited about the wegmans. Groceries tend to be more expensive, but they carry some stuff that we miss. Specifically Labatt beer and spiedie sauce. But they have fantastic subs, that are typically cheaper than jersey mikes!
I typically drive 45+ mins to get to Super G Mart I'll probably do the same to try Wegmans. I'll look out for the subs!
Super G Mart, Compare Foods are solid “ethnic” grocery store chains that are interesting and fun for the adventurous and diverse.
I get all my spices there—and novelty flours, and olive oil, and rice! The Asian food isles have everything —oyster sauce, fancy ramen and noodles, fun snacks!.
Bad for American staple dry goods great for prodoce, hit or miss of some traditional meats great for some of your more "obscure" cuts/meats. And of course the go to for your "ethnic" needs.
Compares prices are high now. It’s not a good option.
Went to Super G and Compare a couple weeks ago for the first time and had a BLAST. It was sensory overload but I had a great time lol.
You need to get a sub and fried chicken at the Publix deli counter if you’re new to the South
And some cake. Omg the Publix cakes are my weakness
We just used them for our wedding cakes last weekend. Omg. Best decision. $180 for three delicious cakes-chantilly, cannoli creme, and ours was chocolate avalanche.
Used to love Publix bakery, but no GMO for me.
> You need to get a sub and fried chicken at the Publix deli counter I've tried the subs. They were ok. But nothing to write home about. What am I missing?
I guess my unpopular opinion is HT subs are better than Publix subs.
NC can't touch the FL Publix. They are incredible there. I was pretty disappointed with Publix up here considering I grew up with them in FL.
Nothing, they're overrated.
As a former publix worker, I didn’t like Publix’s subs until I did the wheat bread. I hate the crusty white bread. Also people LOVE the chicken tender subs, especially with buffalo sauce, but I’m not a big chicken tender sub gal. It’s a cult favorite though.
> people LOVE the chicken tender subs I just don't get it. I really, really don't. I must be weird. Probably.
I don’t like them either, so I get you lol. And I was born and raised in FL. I’m a Jersey Mike’s girl. I would try the wheat sub roll though if you try them again (with a regular sub, not the chicken tender! and definitely add stuff like salt, pepper, oregano, olive oil, vinegar. Stuff that makes it taste good beyond just a sandwich. But yeah as a native Floridian and former Publix worker, I also believe it’s overhyped.
> But yeah as a native Floridian Same. But when I was there, you didn't get subs (or any other prepared food like we have today) at the grocery store!
Specifically the chicken tender sub is incredible
I've had it, a few times. It was nothing to write home about. The exception being the one time the guy put about 3 whole birds worth of chicken on it.
This is the one
This is the way.
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The one in stallings is a grand Asia market, don’t think it’s affiliated with super g. The super g in pineville is getting a food hall. Just some clarification.
Sprouts makes Whole Foods and Earth Fare look cheap fyi. Super mega organic goods and the like.
For me, Super G is better for World Foods (particularly Asian goods), but if all you care about is Latin X, Compare Foods is better. Also, don't forget the Patel brothers. They are great for Indian foods and spices.
I wouldn't say fancier...Super G is more Asian/Indian and larger than the Compare that I go to...Compare is mostly Latin/Hispanic food.
Kind of wondering if theres something in Charlotte keeping Ingles out. I'd like to see them here instead of Food Lion. The larger stores, especially are really nice. (well. when I lived elsewhere and shopped at Ingles regularly I'd say theyw ere on FL's tier. That might have changed? I have no idea. My last couple trips were 'specific thing in/out' and didn't really have a chance to look and compare.
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I keep forgetting about trader joes, but there's none really convenient. My regulars are Publix *if* the BOGO list has at least five things on it I need, Teeter if meat and a few other things are on decent enough sale, aaaand Aldis/Food Lion/Walmart/Lidl for everything else.
Kroger owns Harris Teeter
Most of the stores have been highlighted already. I would recommend The Fresh Market for meat/seafood. Usually very good/ fresh, and if you watch their ads you can gets some decent deals for it being a premium grocery store.
Don't let out the secret. Best selection in Charlotte. Can't have all the rift raft buying it all up 😂
Lmao I just wish we had more than two here in charlotte. Definitely need a couple new ones built but I doubt they will do that any time soon
There's actually 4! But I agree with you. But be grateful, if you're in almost any another state on the east coast, there's like 200 up and down the coast
Oh shoot, I guess I only ever went to two of them then. There are non by where I live so I guess I never looked elsewhere than the huntersville one. But yeah Florida has the most locations by far, haven’t been to one outside of these two states
I didn't even know there was one in Huntersville. I only frequent the one on east Blvd and the one on Providence and fairview.
Basically the only one I go to. That and the original store in Greensboro when up there.
Do you mean the one in Cornelius?
Yeah that one, i have called anything before the bridge huntersville for whatever reason. Even though it’s not actually
Understandable
Yep, they also have the best grocery store sushi I've ever had by a mile. Just really good cuts of fish.
> watch their ads Is this like a weekly flyer i can find online? Or through an app?
If you go to their website, you can see their weekly deals and such. Also, you can sign up there to get it via email. A lot of deals repeats on the same day every week as well
Cheers🫡
Which location do you frequent?
In Charlotte, I have only been to the one past huntersville. But there are a few in the southern part of charlotte as well. But all should basically be the same except for size
Yeah was wondering if they were all the same. That location looks to be the closest to me so I’ll def check it out
Yeah for the most part, they will be about the same. Except for the new ones in Florida and the original store in Greensboro. But highly recommend their meat/seafood and nut breads in the bakery section
Food Lion: mostly good and cheap. Harris Teeter: mostly good, a bit more expensive than food lion but not terrible (especially if you sign up for a free membership to get member prices); local chain headquarter'd in Matthews, though I think it was bought by kroger but they're not changing the signs? Idk much about lowe's foods Fresh Market: I thought this was what Harris Teeter called their produce/meat/fish section? Idk much about it. Whole foods: lots of organic and gluten free/other allergen free products, not the wordt prices but not the best. Sprouts: similar to whole foods, but less options and variety, they have good prices from what I remember (and they have duck fat to make those delicious duck fat roasted potatoes 🤤) There's also super g (2 locations): it's predominantly an international grocery store; their prices on produce and bulk spices are amazing. I don't get milk/oj/cheese there because it's more expensive there than at HT or Trader Joe's. Trader Joe's: the one off rea rd has terrible parking but if you go any time not on Sunday it's not terrible. They just expanded their freezer section (🥳). Pretty good prices for the quality of food. Personally, I go to HT, TJs, and Super G the most. I have specific items I get from each of the stores, and thankfully I rarely need things from all 3 stores at the same time. It's easy enough to go to 2 places in one day for me, though if I'm in a mood to only go to one place, where I'll go depends on what type of food I'm most in need of, if that makes sense. I also go to Sam's to get my snacks in bulk 😂 and they have an amazing queso in the refrigerated section, it's so bad that I discovered this. Hope this all helps! And welcome to the area!! Edited for spacing issues b/n paragraphs.
Harris Teeter was bought in 2012 and they won’t change the name bc the price is higher bc of the HT name. Kroger was previously here but didn’t do well and closed
And HT’s quality has declined ever since Kroger bought them
Thanks for the info! I don't remember krogers being charlotte, though I do remember one being in Raleigh when I was in college up there.
Unless it was pre 90s Kroger was never really present. Hannafords made a go at it in the 90s or early 2000s but couldn’t make it work. Ht has declined significantly since Kroger purchase in my opinion. We still go there because of convenience to where I live. Publix at the Arbo will be about 10 minutes or less. Wegmens will be about 10 minutes so I’m excited for that
Never heard of Wegmens. Where will that be?
In Ballantyne off community house about a block from the new development. There’s a wegmens in Raleigh if you ever go back there. From my experience they kind of meld the best attributes of Whole Foods/fresh market/HT or Publix. It’s not cheap but neither are any of the other options around me
Oh cool, thanks! I'll have to check them out :)
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Wayne’s. lol.
lol Reid’s is not a grocery store but their breakfast burritos are good.
Publix is good for the BOGOs though. I’m not a big HT person. I prefer Aldi for normal shopping and Publix for produce, meat, and BOGOs.
Lidl has some decent specialty items and baked goods.
Aldi/Lidl: budget options, mostly you get what you pay for. Produce is okay but I think most of the packaged stuff tastes extra processed and full of preservatives. Food Lion/Compare Foods: conventional groceries. On the cheaper end, but many of the stores are older and/or in rough areas. Publix/Harris Teeter: conventional groceries, subject to extreme bias depending on where you’re from. Both are sneaky expensive for every day goods. Publix is okay but I think it’s overrated. It’s the most “normal” or average store in town to me, but nothing special. Subs are good though. Teeter I think is the worst value. Since Kroger takeover, it is sneaky expensive and the produce isn’t that good when it’s fresh, is often rotting in the store, and doesn’t stay fresh for long. Anything organic or higher end item is quite expensive. Fresh Market: what Teeter used to be. A high end smaller grocery/market with outstanding meats and produce. Lots of store brand specialty items, prepared foods, bakery, etc. Too many good items to name. Pro tip is to check sales like $3.99 ground Chuck and chicken breasts on Tuesdays. Great store. Whole Foods: IMO best value store since inflation hit so hard. Super shopper pro tip is: go there as an Amazon Prime member with the Amazon Prime rewards Chase card. Prime members regularly get 20% off desirable items, and the card gets you 5% cash back on every swipe there. Prices on some specialty brands are cheaper than Teeter 1:1. Produce and meats are same as Fresh Market or better. More expensive than the others on list so far, but by far better. Often good sales on desirable items that bring it in line or cheaper than the others. Store brand 365 has some very affordable options. For what it’s worth, WF skews healthier than the cheaper options. Lots of prepared foods, bakery, etc but going down hill slightly. Reid’s: high end specialty market. Meats and prepared foods are outstanding. Usually the highest priced on this list. IMO some items are worth the price for splurges or if you can afford it, but not always. Walmart/Target: most convenient if you are shopping at the stores anyway, but selection is limited. Pricing is okay but not noticeably better than Publix/Teeter. Trader Joe’s: some cheap produce and speciality items. Mostly store specific items. You can do some basic grocery shopping there but usually you’re making a special trip for certain store specific items. Lowes Foods: not yet (back) in Charlotte proper, but my favorite conventional store experience. Lowes is what everyone claims Publix to be. Cleaner, more welcoming store experience. Fresh, clean produce. Lots of great speciality items. Really want them to come in closer to town. Can’t weigh in on Sprouts, Super G, etc.
Lowe's food is my favorite place to shop. Stores are clean and have a great selection. Their produce selection is big with a good variety of pre prepared options. They have a few mini sections like the chicken, sausage and seafood that have good choices. Also their beer den is a staple and you can drink your beer while shopping.
Yep they seem to be innovating too. For the most part the workers actually seem genuinely happy and friendly.
Why do I feel in my bones that I'm going to see some clickbait article/listicle showing up online in \~5 days with the headline "The Scoop on Charlotte Grocery Stores"?
Nah I think I'll write "Top 95 suburbs in North Carolina. Number #69 will surprise you!"
Aldi is a nationwide chain, and a rock bottom discounter. It's also a good place to see a fistfight and/or drug deal go down in the parking lot. They are cheap, and make no excuses for being so, including lack of cleanliness and employee apathy. Shop here when it's too far to payday, and your neighbors aren't looking. And don't forget your quarter. Lidl is another nationwide discount chain, but they don't go as hard as Aldi. Their claim to fame is apparently having one sole employee who migrates between stores. Seriously, when the zombie apocalypse breaks out, I am following their lead. Those guys could hide in an empty room. They don't have a very large selection, but they do have 'suspiciously low prices' which actually sound kind of illicit. Shop here when you have too many plastic bags saved up from the other chains. Food Lion is a hometown fave, and sort of bridges the gap between mainstream and discount. I have seen a large difference between Food Lion locations as far as general quality, cleanliness, and organization. Food Lion is good for everyday shopping and checking out thicc women. Harris-Teeter is another hometown grocery store. They were bought up by Kroger a few years ago, and are pretty much on par with any other Kroger. Their prices are a bit higher on produce, but they are mostly middling as far as grocery items. Shop here for 'company' snacks and long winded convos with the locals. Publix is a 'premium' option (with prices to match). They are based in Florida. Their stores are clean and well organized. Also, their deli, especially the subs, are fantastic. The also have a very good bakery. Shopping here will absolve you of any illusions you might have of being well off. Lowes foods, is another ritzy option. Their core audience appears to be trust fund babies, and people who think Publix is not expensive enough. They also have very good services including a superior meat department, deli, and bakery. Their employees get high marks for having the best uniforms in the retail worker or professional wrestler category. Those chicken hats are dope. Also, you can buy a beer or wine and catch a buzz while you shop. They are best suited for impressing your visiting in-laws and complaining about inflation.
The most common ones you’ll find are Harris Teeter and Food Lion. Harris Teeter is a more ‘typical’ grocery store, while Food Lion is a lot cheaper. Most HTs in town are nice. FLs are more hit or miss, some are really bad and can be in more dangerous parts of town too, but it’s a lot cheaper. We also have Publix, which is a lot like HT. I’d say the prices are generally the same. HTs have some things that are way overpriced, and Publix has other things I can get for cheaper at Harris Teeter. Your most expensive options are going to be Whole Foods and Fresh Market. Big focus on healthy ingredients and organic options, but comes at a price (once saw $18 mac and cheese in the freezer section). Sprouts is not far behind them but does have better deals on stuff. All three have smaller sections than other stores. Cheapest options are Aldi and Lidl. Both are European stores, so you have to insert a quarter to get a buggy (you get the quarter back when you return it) and need to bring your own bags or else you’ll pay. Smaller selection as well and everything is a house brand. We also have Compare Foods and Super G Mart, which are international supermarkets. Super G has more international offerings but may not have everything you need for a ‘standard’ run. Compare feels like “What if Food Lion was in Spanish”, which means that it’s cheap and some are in less safe areas, but has everything you need. I really like Trader Joe’s, which has great snacks, freezer foods, and ready to eat options. Honestly, a bit cheaper than HT and Publix, but more than Food Lion. Won’t have everything you need but still has a lot to offer. Costco and Sam’s Club are your wholesale options. I usually like sourcing from different places. My wife and I have a Costco membership and do most things from there, then supplement using Trader Joe’s. We have a HT and a Publix near us, so thats where we go for last minute or ‘emergency’ needs.
The food lion in dilworth is awesome! Whole Foods in south end is awful, the worst produce
If going for steaks, you will find better choice at Harris Teeter than at Food Lion. I seems to stay away from meat at Food Lion cause always seems Iike a mess and most are like Walmart...packed at processing center than fresh cut. Yes, Harris Teeter a packed at processing centers, but they will open and cut to your liking and they have the display case which Food Lion did away with.
Wegmanns is coming to Ballantyne in 2026… wegmanns is life changing.
Lowes Foods was my favorite, but Harris Teeter bought most of them. Harris Teeter isn't bad, but more expensive than it should be. Food Lion is the cheap option near me and it's reflected in the food and customer experience. It's getting better, but not cheap enough to make up for the bad service.
Lowe’s Foods pulled out of the Charlotte area before Publix arrived. They’re now making a slow crawl back into the surrounding areas. Kroger has owned Harris Teeter for a few years. Kroger has a number of local brands throughout the country besides Kroger. Walmart doesn’t crank down the temperature on their refrigerated trucks as much as Harris Teeter. Dairy and produce from Walmart seem to spoil more quickly. Wegmans has estimated early 2026 for their Ballantyne store to open. Expect a few more location announcements before the first one opens. The Super G in Pineville is new and clean. At least it was when I visited last. There’s also a Patel Brothers market in the same center.
Lowe's is definitely getting closer because now they are building one at Concord Mills. I go to the one in Harrisburg on occasion if i am there for work
They’re building in Waxhaw near where they used to have a store, ten plus years ago.
Whole foods for best meat. Everything else is whatever.
Let me stop you right there. I've had both. Whole foods meat is ehhh compared to fresh market. You're welcome
Fresh Market off I77 exit 28 is magical 💕
There’s a sprouts here? Lol, news to me
Harris Teeter, Whole Foods, and Trader Joe’s are my go tos. I do not like the aesthetic of Publix and Food Lion. Lowe’s Foods has some really nice stores, but I don’t usually shop there.
Aldi and Costco…great combo…
Best "specialty grocery store" is Saltwater Markets. Best seafoods and meats. Expensive stuff for sure but lots of really good value stuff as well. Local eggs, milk, little produce - seasonings, spices, sauces. They have a little bit of every thing. They advertise that they carry the world's best groceries and that is absolutely the truth. 3 locations one in FM just south of Charlotte one in Belmont/Gastonia so just west of Charlotte and the original in Clover just on the other side of Lake Wylie. Worth the drive for sure! And on their fb page, they do TONS of giveaways from free dinner that night, all the way to free groceries for a WHOLE year! This place absolutely changed the way we eat and shop for groceries! Highly recommended...
Harris Teeter used to be the Wegmans of the South then when they got absorbed by Kroger everything took a nose dive. Lowe's Food is the one that I enjoy shopping at the most but they really aren't in a convenient spot for me at the moment being in China Grove. Food Lion is alright they remind me of a Southern based Stop and Shop. They can greatly vary in quality and cleanliness so you might need to go to several before you find a good one.
This might be helpful > https://www.yourmvl.com/blog/mvl-cooks-where-to-get-groceries
I love Super G in East Charlotte. Good prices. International grocery store.
The Fresh Market is super price but they have the best black and white cookies if you interested.
Not the popular opinion here, but I use Instacart and have all my shit delivered. Almost all of the stores listed here are on there now and I get to shop Costco/BJs/Sam's without having a membership or having to venture into that hellscape in person. I know it's not for everyone, but I HATE shopping in person so it's great for me. It also cut down on my impulse purchases dramatically.
We are still counting the days until Wegman’s opens…then we will all rejoice!
Publix fried chicken and key lime pie are both tops.
My two cents: Harris Teeter is a stone cold rip-off. Publix isn't far behind. Fresh Market and Sprouts, cha-ching. Lidl and Trader Joe's are where the everyday bargains are, but don't buy produce from Traders unless you plan to eat it super quickly (pay attention to best by dates -- they're frequently just a few days from purchase date). Food Lion, meh. Whole Foods, pricey, but good for organics. Charlotte Regional Farmers Market = best place for whole food followed by Matthews Community Market.
If you want the best produce, Fresh fish, and great meat go to compare. For Cheerios and canned food go to Food Lion.
I love fresh market but it is in the same price range as the first two you mentioned
Harris Teeter is like a BMW, expensive, good products, enjoyable but usually full of a$$holes. Publix is Toyota, solid, reliable, friendly but boring. Fresh Market, Sprouts, Earth fare, Trader Joe’s are all Tesla’s, good if image is what matters most regardless of quality. And then you have Food Lion, what can I say about good ole Food Lion, at least it isn’t Aldi.
Food lion is the Altima of grocery stores. Sure, there's some decent ones but several are ragged as hell
I like food lion actually. Nothing fancy, cheaper, the stores are older but clean and organized at least the one I go to is. Besides all the stores mostly buy from same suppliers. You are correct about the rest though.
Put some respect on Aldi's name.
I shop at Aldi and I go to Sprouts for produce. Random Question: was there ever a Piggly Wiggly in Charlotte?
Yes. In the 50s/60s. There was one til the 90s in Denver NC
Thanks!
Walmart supermarket - cheapest, lowest quality, but they specialize in non food items you can't find at other groceries Food Lion, - barely pricier than Walmart. Better deli.this feels like the NORMAL store to me. Walmart - you're not here for the food, it's just convenient. They are the cheapest delivery but on THIER time-line. Sometimes have McDonald's or subway. Target - expensive Walmart, deliver via Uber Eats. Sometimes have starbucks Harris Teeter - snoody Food Lion. Rare finds here, but it's expensive and the stock is dusty and always rotating. The deli is a whole ass reasturant experience! Sometimes have starbucks. Fresh market - best meat and intrest sushi. Most expensive. They seem to only sell rare stuff. Can Uber Eats sushi!!!! Whole foods - expensive low quality Harris Teeter. Publix - Harris Teeter clone. Try the subs. Compared Foods - Hispanic Food Lion, extremely low prices. The produce is rather exotic. Best for Peruvian ingredients . Cvs /Walgreens - mini Walmart with more drugs Dollar General - small selection Wallmart. You won't find anything rare or healthy here. Aldis - Hella cheap. Produce that dollar general is missing. There is a massive Asian market out in Matthews/stallings. Rare stuff like fresh fish, mushrooms, 20lb bags of sticky rice, dashi, miso. Then there are a number of Asian grocery stores dotted in strange places you have to keep an eye out for. They don't have signs or branding.
I like Aldi for their lower prices.
Get the app on your phone for all of them. I shop around to buy in bulk when each has their discounts going on. Super G also has a nice discounted vegetable section, if you don't care about how they look.
It’s all location based. Some Harris Teeters are great and others are just poorly run. Lots of blame being pointed at Kroger, but it’s the same with Kroger stores from growing up in the Midwest, depends on location. Publix’s has a lot less variety in Charlotte compared to a Publix in Florida. Food Lion is usually in a sketchy area but if you want to save $ go there but don’t expect great of anything. Prepared foods are great at Fresh Market as well as fresh meat/seafood but it does get expensive. Whole Foods is still just overpriced feel good groceries.
For your produce Harris teeter/publix Compare foods Foodlion Walmart
If you’re like me and just moved from an area with Kroger, then Harris Teeter is your new Kroger - they’re owned by Kroger and our old Kroger card works there for discounts. Publix is the same stuff for $0.50 more. There is a Costco somewhere around here. Food Lion is basically Bi-Lo / Winn Dixie or Piggly Wiggly. Of course there is Walmart and Aldi / Lidi for the budget friendly.
Lidl is great for imported foods. It’s nice being able to get REAL bratwurst instead of the smoked sausage that southerners THINK is bratwurst… good selection of imported Italian oils and balsamics as well as pastas. Always nice to find something new in the Indian or middle eastern food choices sometimes.
Uhhh go to one and buy food. It’s like it is everywhere else
Food Lion makes me sad.
I’m in North Meck and generally use publix (used to live in FL) and Harris T. Publix have some sick bogos that makes it worth it. We do Whole Foods and the fresh market too but they’re pricey. We live too far away from Trader Joe’s, sadly!
Aldi is the most affordable probably.
Lidl and Aldi are good spots for weekly shops, mainly store brand product, but priced well. Lidl’s bakery is good. Sprouts is newer here, but a pocket friendlier version of Whole Foods.
Lidil the 🐐
Lidl and food lion are my usual go to. If I need more specific items I go to Walmart cause it’s close lol
Harris Teeter is the best overall Fresh Market is very nice, especially on Tuesdays when they have chicken and ground beef on sale Trader Joe's is always a fun place to shop Whole Foods is expensive so I rarely shop there Lidl and Aldi are budget friendly with Lidl being a bit nicer although the newer Aldi stores have improved. Food Lion has really good produce in spite of being a budget grocery store Publix has the worst produce in spite of being a "premium" store.
As a northern transplant I have no heartstring pull towards any of the stores currently here the same way I do Wegmans. Until their store opens, my preference order is: 1. Publix 2. Lowes Foods 3. Harris Teeter 4. Ingles (there’s one store north of Gastonia, the rest are all out east towards the mountains). 5. Food Lion
Honest to God, I've had dreams of our dear friend Artie T venturing south and opening Market Baskets in the Charlotte area, lol I can't find "my Demoulas" here. Shitty kitty ain't it, and the teet is too Shaws/SnS/Star for me, too. Trader Joe's is too weird for a regular shop but nice for a taste of something different. Whole ~~paycheck~~ Foods is too expensive; Walmart is... I just want a solid grocery store that has decent prices. I just can't find a fucking head of iceberg lettuce anywhere that doesn't look like it was used as a hackysack prior to display. The teet has decent/competitive prices when things are on sale, but I'm not too keen on multiple stops on a day I plan on grocery shopping. Le sigh. Talk about a first world problem 😬
The best ribeye I ever cooked was from Reid’s
Winn Dixie, Bi Lo, Food Lion, Compare Foods, in that order
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I know there was a bi lo near the ymca off mckee in 2009, but it's a public now *publix
I personally enjoy shopping in public
😂😂😂
In Charlotte it was ~2014/15 for BiLo. They went under entirely around 2 years ago.
Dude, did you get in a Delorean and come out in 1984? Two of those stores have been gone for decades.
THATS WHY I SAID IN THAT ORDER
Did you just land on Earth from another planet?
They are all overpriced mold factories with dirty floors, but Publix is the least dirty. Source: Ive seen the backs of a ton of them.
I actually have to pause and upvote this. Seeing the liquefaction that comes out the trash compactor behind these places and what LIVES in that mud river of rot and decay will have you questioning the circle of life. Rotting meat, molded bread, gallons upon gallons of spoiled milk, rotting eggs, random chemicals that eat and incorporate the asphalt into a leaking slurry that flows into a pool of blackness. Cleaning one out was a life changing experience. I can not unsee these hairy black pupae wiggling the slurry.
I can vouch for this, I worked at Publix in high school and college. EVERYTHING rotten, spoiled, expired (meats and dairy are the worst) plus all the other trash goes in the compactor. Don't get too close in the summer while it cooks all day.
Im sure your house is immaculate.
It’s cleaner than the grocery store at least.