St. Louis Grocery Stores – Trader Joe’s

In the past several years a new store has appeared on the St. Louis grocery scene, and for many of us it has been a welcome addition. Trader Joe’s (TJ’s) has popped up in a handful of locations around the Metro area. With California roots, this a-typical store is a breath of fresh air in the Midwest. Here are some important tidbits to know before you go:

• TJ’s “private labels to save you money” as they say
• TJ’s does accept manufacturer’s coupons
• Typically does not run sales, as their everyday prices are fairly reasonable
• Offers many organic items
• Is a smallish store with a good selection but limited variety of each type of item
• Has good prices on wines
• Has paper bags for you to use, but if you bring your own bags you can be entered in a weekly raffle for a bag of groceries. Sometimes you need to ask your cashier to enter you, as they don’t always offer
• Is kid-friendly, with pint-size shopping carts and a special critter (varies from store to store) for kids to spot and then claim a prize
• Almost always has food and drink samples in the rear of the store (another plus with kids!)
• Has a “return it if you don’t like it” policy. I have returned a couple of items to them, and they are super about it. On a couple of occasions, they have even sent me home with a free item to try out because I asked about how it tasted or some such thing.
• No stores are open 24-hours. Most are open 8-9 or 9-9
• An easy-going, laid-back atmosphere, with a tropical theme
• Has the least-expensive grocery-store sushi I’ve found. =) They often have good cut flower prices too.
• One of those stores you need to visit at least once. Take the kids and try to limit yourself. While the prices are reasonable, it’s easy to get carried away!