One of the benefits of living in a rapidly growing area like the NC Triangle is all the new chains and businesses we tend to attract. And while I’m a huge fan and supporter of independently-owned restaurants, when it comes to grocery stores, I’m all for strong chains. Here’s a quick rundown as to what to expect from some of the better grocery stores in the RDU!
Harris Teeter – A tried and true, southern classic
With over 260 locations in the South and mid-Atlantic region, Harris Teeter delivers a traditional grocery shopping experience, doing everything pretty well. From produce to brand-name items and more, Teeter tends to be a strong option (if not exceptional) for groceries!
| Pluses | Minuses |
| Good selection across all grocery categories | Not great for prepared foods, subs |
| Plenty of locations in the Triangle, large stores | Private label brand not particularly good |
| Strong weekly sales with bonus deals over the weekend | Very limited bakery area for fresh-baked breads |
Lidl – A rapidly expanding grocery option from Europe
A newer discount grocer that’s hugely popular in Europe but still establishing itself in the US, Lidl offers great prices along with its quirky middle aisle where an interesting assortment of goods ranging from housewares to grills and kayaks are offered to brave shoppers!
| Pluses | Minuses |
| Consistently low prices across all sections but you may not find typical US brands | Challenging self check-out option, not well-staffed in general |
| Interesting options for European-style groceries | Lesser known private label offerings |
| Bargain section in middle aisle offers random, non-grocery items along with some great deals | Meats and seafood are self-service and pre-packaged |
Publix – A newer option with a great deli and bakery section
Based out of Florida, Publix (1,300+ locations) has seen tremendous growth in the Triangle. Offering newer, more modern stores with a heavy focus on prepared foods (subs, fried chicken, bakery), Publix does a great job overall but has slightly higher prices. The staff is well-trained and will often greet you as you shop through their stores.
| Pluses | Minuses |
| Pub subs, probably the best grocery store subs available | Overall a pricey option if you’re not shopping their sales |
| Strong bakery area, love their tutto pugliese bread and bar cakes | Small produce area with mixed quality, not a strength |
| Great website for online ordering | Small seafood section/selection |
Trader Joe’s – A private label and specialty grocery retailer
Based out of California with over 570 stores, Trader Joe’s is known for its quirky, ethnic offerings that work well in smaller households. Longtime favorites like their bananas, orange chicken, Joe-Joes cookies, and coffee selection means that fans of Trader Joe’s are usually super-fans! And while you can do a lot of your shopping here, you’ll probably need another stop to complete your grocery list.
| Pluses | Minuses |
| Trader Joe’s private label covers everything food-wise, including ethnic eats (Trader Jose, Trader Mings) and it is GOOD! | Limited produce section with hit or miss quality, a lot of their produce is pre-packaged. |
| Small and manageable stores with friendly and helpful staff. | Special items are often seasonal and will go out of stock when the supply goes out. |
| Fun and unique offerings especially around the holidays. | Food items tend to be for singles, couples, and small families. No extra large quantities-portions. |
Wegmans – A chain from NY state offering an elevated grocery experience
Wegman’s arrival to the Triangle came with a lot of fanfare several years ago. A long-time favorite for upstate NYers, expect a great selection of meats, cheeses and dairy but you will pay for it. Probably the highest end grocery store in the area with an upscale clientele and feel.
| Pluses | Minuses |
| Inexpensive dairy, cheese, eggs | Pricey produce, decent quality |
| Great meat section, quality-wise | Limited boxed-canned goods selection |
| Strong wine and beer selection | Ready to eat buffet, tasty but not inexpensive |
| Solid food court for meals to go |
Now I know there are some others that aren’t listed (Food Lion, Carli Cs, Aldi, Whole Foods, and more) which I don’t usually shop. In the end, you usually end up going to the stores that are closest to you but with the rapidly growing Triangle, who knows what will pop up down the street from you?
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