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The best grocery stores in New York

Shop at a great grocery store in NYC, from independent grocers to budget-friendly supermarkets, for your next meal

Written by
Jennifer Picht
&
Tazi Phillips
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There’s a reason New Yorkers tend to go out to dinner or just order pizza delivery instead of hitting up a grocery store. Shopping for food in NYC is hard, damn it! We deal with crowded stores, long lines, expensive produce and then we have to lug it all back on the subway. But life doesn’t have to be this way. That’s why we set out to find grocery stores in NYC neighborhoods that are reasonably priced, have a really great selection of products and other perks like ready-to-eat meals, juice bars and outdoor sitting areas. From local health food stores to well-stocked supermarkets, find the best grocery store by neighborhood.

RECOMMENDED: Full guide to shopping in NYC

Best grocery stores in New York

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  • Brooklyn Heights

This mom-and-pop market has been a one-stop shop for organic and natural foods, home products and responsibly-sourced produce since 1976. Gothamites praise the store's quality from the temperature-controlled bulk food section to the friendly and knowledgeable staff. Head to the back for fresh juices, smoothies and a hot food counter and bakery for delicious (and healthy) breakfast and lunch options.

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  • Chelsea

Entering a Garden of Eden shop might feel a lot like you're shopping in a European market with the wicker baskets covering the ceiling, a range of international products and a gorgeous charcuterie section packed with cured meats and cheeses. The store draws a crowd during lunch hours for its selection of sushi, the hot food buffet and more.

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  • Clinton Hill

This small, unassuming, Korean-run grocer in Clinton Hill is a true gem. Besides being open 24 hours a day, the shop stocks fresh fruits and vegetables at a bargain. While sales and fresh offerings can change daily, you're guaranteed to find a great deal in addition to vegetarian and vegan products and pantry staples.

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  • Carroll Gardens

Can't make it to the farmers’ market? Head to this small Brooklyn grocer for a large selection of high-quality, fresh fruits and vegetables year round. The friendly staff and competitive prices make this gem the go-to spot in the neighborhood for leafy greens, grocery staples, bulk items and Asian condiments.

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  • Crown Heights

This relative newcomer to the neighborhood has quickly climbed the ranks as one of the best markets in Crown Heights. While it is technically a mini mart, you won't have any trouble finding what you're looking for. Pick up organic fresh produce, natural health food items, specialty Asian products, hard-to-find brands, craft beers and staples like their huge selection of Bob's Red Mills grains and baking supplies.

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  • East Village
With 130 stores and counting, C-Town has the largest footprint of independently owned grocery stores in the metro New York City area. Here you can shop for all your grocery and household needs in one trip, and although the prices aren’t exceptional, the shop carries hard-to-find spices, sauces and other ingredients, as well as an excellent organic-product section.
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  • Financial District
Gothamites love this market for its convenient offerings, affordable prices and the bakery. With a neighborhood-bodega feel, the quaint shop carries a good selection of fresh produce, snacks and nonfood items. Plus, the deli prepares excellent sandwiches, if you want to take your lunch to go.
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  • Flatiron
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You can find this massive food and drink complex, from Mario Batali and Joe and Lidia Bastianich, in the Flatiron District. A spin-off of an operation by the same name just outside of Turin, Italy, the store’s retail maze and six full-service restaurants include a rotisserie with the city’s best flame-roasted chickens, hard-to-find produce (plus an in-house “vegetable butcher”) and the meatcentric white-tablecloth joint Il Manzo.

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  • Hell's Kitchen
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Stocked with high-quality foodstuffs and organic and unique products (in addition to the run-of-the-mill milk and eggs), this grocery chain offers a plethora of options, catering to foodies, eco-conscious shoppers and regular shoppers alike.

Looking for more grocery stores?

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