I really enjoy my visits to this store and I went there again today, even though it means a bus trip. So many things to like!
First of all, pretty much every staff member I encounter, and there are many, greet me with a smile and say hello. I don't see that happening in any other food store I visit. In fact, most staff members avert their eyes, turn their heads or just generally ignore me like I don't exist. Even stores I've shopped in regularly for nearly 10 years. At this Urban Fare, they sometimes ask if I need help or if I'm finding what I need. I really appreciate the friendly customer service. If I ask a question and the person doesn't know the answer, they ask someone who does. Today I was trying to find the price of a gingerbread house kit in a new display that wasn't priced yet. Two young women put in the effort to find the price, which was $20. Later I looked on the website of the kit maker (US) and the price of the same kit online is $25US plus shipping. So prices may be generally high at Urban Fare, but I got a deal on this special pink blingy gingerbread house kit I haven't seen anywhere else.
Other things I like. The store is well laid out and items are displayed beautifully and with care. Lighting is pleasant and the ambience is calm and peaceful. Prices are generally high, but they do have some good specials. You just need to know your prices. I managed to spend $75 there today, so they obviously have things at a good price or that I can't find anywhere else.
Every department has top quality goods. There are areas with fresh hot foods (they'll make you a gorgeous sandwich or a full meal with sides), made-on-the-spot sushi and salads, a deli counter with every kind of cold meat and gorgeous cheeses. I bought a chicken pot pie ($6.99) from the hot section, which I was assured was a "regular" chicken pie and not the butter chicken version. Got nothing against butter chicken, but I wanted the regular old comfort food version. As soon as I opened it at home I knew it was butter chicken from the aroma. I was a bit annoyed, as I'd specifically inquired to make sure what it was. However, I heated it up and ate it and couldn't believe how delicious it was. Absolutely loaded with chicken, a very light butter chicken flavour, not at all spicy, and a golden, crispy pastry top. I could only eat half of it and put the rest away for tomorrow. Easily one of the tastiest chicken pies I've ever had. I would buy it again.
What else? Huge Hass avocadoes for 99 cents each. So there are bargains to be had. Some stores are still charging $3 for them. There are places to sit and eat and at lunchtime today the tables and window counter were full of working men in hi-vis jackets chowing down. That's a sign this place is doing something right in the area of ready food.
The other half of the store is basic packaged groceries. I rarely buy from that section because most of the things I get other places for less money. There's a No Frills near me and they have some great prices on basics. However, comparing ambience, customer service, friendliness of staff, quality of products, availability of items not available elsewhere, the overall aesthetics, lighting, music, no lines at cashiers, etc., Urban Fare has a whole heck of a lot going for it. I will get on that bus again and shop at Urban Fare because it's a lovely experience. read more