4.5 Stars - A great place to shop, with a few things to improve on…read more
I'm at the Pearl Harbor Commissary every week, and there are definitely some things that keep me coming back.
First, the produce workers are always so friendly. One greets me like clockwork every time I come in and is always ready to help if I have questions or if I'm looking a bit lost. Their produce stock can sometimes be lacking in both availability and quality - so this is one area where I wish they'd improve. One rule of thumb I always have to remind myself of is: you get what you pay for. They sell things at a significantly discounted price, so I guess I shouldn't complain. (But I do!)
The meat department is also helpful when I have special requests or am looking for things that are missing from the shelves. I usually go on Monday or Tuesday mornings, and unfortunately, a good portion of the chicken shelves are nearly empty. I'm usually on the hunt for gizzards for my dog (she's a diva), and they aren't always available. Tuesday late morning is the day for gizzards, if you're curious... oh and they do not cut thin shabu-style meats.
And then there's Carle! Nearly every week, he jokes, "Your same spot is ready for you," or teases me about how I'm always "on the run." To that I say: I just walk really fast, scan with intention, and I'm a routine person who likes what I know! Haha!
Of course, one of the biggest perks is the prices. They're great, although I have noticed they're showing a little growth - which is definitely not the kind of growth we're hoping for! Still, the commissary remains a good value.
I also really appreciate the huge variety of products from different cultures. I cook all kinds of different cuisines, so being able to find so many of the ingredients I need in one place is a major benefit.
Parking is another plus. There's plenty of parking, even during peak hours, although I usually go right when they open, so parking is one thing I never have to worry about.
The commissary is generally clean and organized, but I do have one big pet peeve: FIFO - First In, First Out! I don't always see products being rotated properly, especially with certain items. Okay, I sound like a Karen. But that's a big deal to me, so you'll never catch me grabbing a random item off the shelf. I check the dates on everything I touch.
Overall, I enjoy my shopping here. The friendly employees, great prices, variety, and convenience make it a regular stop for me.