I was a big fan of this place when it was Payless Food Bazaar but it has recently changed hands and now I'm not so sure. The fresh produce has been reduced drastically, to the point where it should be removed altogether. No one wants to see lonely fruit and vege.
The hot food Chaat where you couldn't help but buy hot aromatic Indian snacks has gone but even worse, all the cabinets and counters are still there to remind you what you're missing. All international grocery products have also been taken away so now the range is exclusively Indian with literally two bottles of soy sauce in the whole place, no sushi supplies, noodles or anything else not from the Subcontinent. It's all very well being altruistic but surely diversification is a good economic decision? Maybe they only have an import line from India. Whatever, it's disappointing as this place has a carpark out the back and used to be pretty convenient.
The nice man behind the counter tells me they are considering a hot food takeaway counter but I don't think Sandringham needs more lukewarm pre-made curry.
You can get cheap two-for-one milk and this is one of the few places where you can get a green and a blue bottle in the deal - what can I say, the little things make me happy.
I'm not sure how to feel about the rodent traps because at least they are trying to catch the little buggars right? I'd just rather not know about it.
The absolute best thing about this place is the masalas - you need never struggle through attempting a curry at home again; there's a spice mix for all your favourites and many you've never heard of at around $3 each. The clue is in the name I guess. read more