Supermarkets in New York

Supermarkets in New York cater to New Yorkers in all their needs. I often get questions about doing groceries in the city. There are not many big chain supermarkets but you can find good alternatives to buy fresh food, natural products, grooming and cosmetics and more. Read on to find a list of supermarkets in New York that are worth visiting.

Supermarkets in New York

There are a lot of places where you can shop for groceries in New York. Some are more focused on organic food, while others focus on handmade products, for example. These are the places that are worth visiting in my opinion:

Whole Foods

Probably the most famous supermarket in New York! Although the prices are a bit higher, Whole Foods is a very convenient choice. There are many shops in Manhattan and you can easily find all kinds of food; fresh produce or snacks, cleaning products and even household products. Whole Foods offers organic and sustainable products, along with many vegetarian or vegan, sugar-free and gluten-free options. Almost all Whole Foods shops in Manhattan also have a counter with various ready-to-eat meals and salads for a few dollars.

Eric’s Tip: “I recommend visiting the shop in Columbus Circle, directly across from Central Park, to buy delicious fresh snacks and enjoy them as part of a picnic in the park.”
Wegmans

A visit to Wegmans is almost an attraction in itself. This luxury supermarket is known for its fresh produce, freshly prepared food and the care with which the products are selected. And you pay for all this too. The products come with a slightly higher price tag than usual, but they promise to be the best of the best. Wegmans is a good option to get a fresh meal for lunch or to eat in your hotel room at the end of the day. And even if you don’t need anything, be sure to visit Wegmans if you pass by; it’s quite an experience.
Target

Target is one of the best-known brand discount stores in the United States and it has several locations in New York. You can really find everything at Target: groceries, clothing, household goods, electrical appliances, cosmetics and so on. Although the locations in the city are a bit smaller than the usual Target shop, the locations are still very advantageous – making it a great shopping option!
Trader Joe’s

Another famous supermarket chain in New York that offers many (healthy) foods and also stocks alternatives for people with special dietary requirements. Trader Joe’s also has its own brand, which is great value for money, so don’t hesitate to buy it. The supermarket is usually quite crowded and the queues at the checkout are long, but they move quite quickly. Besides, the waiting time is worth it for inexpensive products.

Eric’s Tip: “Download my free Eric’s New York app for an overview of supermarkets in New York!”
Drugstores

American drugstores are good alternatives to supermarkets, as these mini-markets do not only sell medicines but also food, clothing, cosmetics and even drinks such as juices, large bottles of water and even milk! In New York, the nearest drugstore is not far away. Look out for chains like Duane Reade, CVS and Rite Aid. Some of them are even open 24 hours a day.
Street Markets

Why not go shopping like a real New Yorker? Visit one of the many New York markets to buy fresh products and grab a bite on the go. These markets are a great alternative to supermarkets and offer a wide selection of organic and local food – plus it’s usually a bit more affordable. It’s also a nice way to see New York from the perspective of a real NYC resident.
Walmart in New Jersey

There is no Walmart in New York City but there is in the neighbouring state of New Jersey. It is one of the supermarkets frequented by New Yorkers as it is a better shopping option. Since I often get questions regarding Walmart, I decided to list it here as well, even though Walmart is in New Jersey. Walmart is a chain of really big shopping stores where you can find everything from groceries to electronics to kids’ stuff. However, if you don’t want to shop in bulk, then it’s not really worth the drive to New Jersey. If you do decide to go there, make sure you allow plenty of time. Walmart in New Jersey is easily accessible by public transport, take the 320 Harmon Meadow bus from Port Authority.