Grocery Stores

I think my interest in grocery stores began with my first job as a "checker" in my hometown grocery store.  Since that time, I enjoy wandering through the aisles of a small-town "Western Family" and the big-city "King Soopers".  Grocery stores provide a reflection into the people of that community.  After all, "you are what you eat", right?!  Since we've been in London, we've seen plenty of grocery stores...

M & S Simply Food

Sainsbury's Local

Tesco Metro

Waitrose

Whole Foods!!!

...and my conclusion is that the British people like baked beans but are prejudice against most other kinds of beans.  Canned tuna, salmon, sardines, and anchovies are very popular but it's difficult to find canned chicken or clams (unless you want pickled cockles). A whole post could be dedicated to the jams and spreads available.  You'll also find a bountiful selection of teas, oils (including olive and seasame seed), vinegar (including cider and balsamic), and cheese (everything from Mature Cheddar to Red Leicester to Double Gloucester).

CHEESE (an entire room of it!)

Bulk pasta

 The smells from the bakery are intoxicating and the selection of beers, wines, and other spirits could take you to another place.

I needed a panoramic lens to capture all the wine!  The beer was downstairs.

Sadly it's true, finding chocolate chips, peanut butter, and salsa is nearly impossible.  I did, however, discover Pace Picante salsa for £4.99 (nearly $8), an oasis in this Mexican desert.

Some of life's essentials

The LARGEST selection of Mexican food

I was also very happy to find Reese's Peanutbutter cups.  I have to travel about an hour each way to get them, but the trip is worth it.

I will end with a few random observations.  All of the eggs are "organic cage-free" and are never refrigerated.  Ground beef is often referred to as "minced beef" and usually comes from Ireland.  Produce including fruits, vegetables, and basil is often very fresh and reasonably priced.  Junk food including chips (tortilla NOT french fries) and "puddings" (aka desserts) is more expensive than in the states.  Perhaps living in London will force us to eat a bit more healthy?!