Publix, Kroger or Whole Foods???

Did you think I disappeared from Patch? I have been so busy at AAA planning other peoples vacations( Yeah, I love what I do) , I almost haven't had time to review any new restaurants. I did get to Lazaro's, a new Cuban place in Roswell, but haven't heard back from the owner yet to discuss his history. More on that after I speak to him.

Anyway, I was just thinking, since this is a Food Blog, why not talk about where we buy our food. Are you a Publix fan? We Floridians, via New York, sure are. Do you prefer Kroger or Whole Foods? Perhaps you're a Fresh Market lover. What are your thoughts on this matter?

I have shopped in all these stores and have favorite things about each one.

Publix is my go to for everything I need to stock the fridge weekly. It has certain items that I use on a daily basis, those of which I cannot obtain at Kroger. The following items I cannot obtain are: Anything holiday related to the Jewish faith ( this applies to the Johns Creek Kroger on Peachtree Parkway only), Breakstones unsalted butter ( best used on Matzah for Passover, which is still this week), Challah ( when Passover is over, of course), Light and Fit Strawberry Yogurt, 32 ounce tub and wild caught salmon, to name a few. On the salmon, I will add that I cannot get this at Costco either, so Whole Foods it is!

Kroger, well let's say, it's not my favorite but I do like to say something positive so, here are two things I like about Kroger.  I like their Valentine's Day rose petals; not edible, but really a nice touch to make the table, or anything else you're throwing those flowers on, look fabulous, and their cents-off gas for being a loyal shopper. Oops, I forgot, I like their Pharmacy too.That make three things, for those who are counting

I love Whole Foods . My favorite thing about Whole Foods is the staff. They are so knowledgeable about their departments. The fish guys are always sharing recipes and instructing me how to prepare the fish I purchase. The cheese gurus are also pretty educated about their cheese. Let's not even talk about the wine section. I love that instant cooler. Did you know that you can chill any bottle of wine while you shop, then dine in Whole Foods with a perfectly chilled bottle, chosen with the expertise of the staff of wine specialists? Love this!

I love the fresh petit roses of Fresh Market. Not that this counts as food either, but does enhance the dining experience! They also have fabulous banana and zucchini breads.

There is another favorite of mine as well, but its a bit far for the surburbanites. For those who want a true food experience, check out the Dekalb Farmers Market on Ponce. ITS FABULOUS! They carry locally grown and imported everything. If you are looking for spices, this is the place. Let's not even discuss the bread section, amazing. If you like fish, pick one swimming by and they filet it for you, right on the spot. Like Boar's Head cold cuts? Well, they are so much cheaper here. I love my Publix, but the pricing at the Farmers Market are far better for Boars' Head.

Check out the places I have mentioned for a truly educational food shopping experience.

Next time, I will discuss a healthy way to shop each store. Hint- use only the outer aisles and you'll be safe with fresh food. The middle aisles are filled with boxed goods, candies, cookies, canned foods, frozen foods, etc.

So as you can see I have eaten my way through our local food emporiums making a mental note of who has what. I would love to know your thoughts on your favorite things about each grocery store. Happy Shopping.