To say the least, the grocery store is far from any home cooks’ favorite place. Depending on the store itself – from the layout to the things you can find – it can be a total make or break. For example, we all know the million times I’ve expressed my utter hatred for Trader Joe’s. Why? Because in downtown Manhattan it’s an “every man for himself” type situation. Not my favorite experience to have.
All that to say, though, the grocery store doesn’t HAVE to be hell on Earth. Not if you know how to get in, get out, and get what you need – all while having a nice little market bag in hand.
So what do we suggest?
#1. Come with a list.
Making a list ahead of your grocery store visit is just about the most important tip we can impart. Not only are you going to show up armed and dangerous knowing exactly where everything is…but you’ll also leave without forgetting the coffee creamer you’ve been needing for days.
Pro Tip: Write your list in order of where things appear in the store. For example, if your produce section is first, compile all of the produce items at the top, followed by dairy, dry goods, etc.
#2. Don’t show up hungry (if you can help it).
If you’re trying to stick to a budget (or don’t want to buy the whole store out), try not to visit the grocery store when you’re starving. You’ll end up with an array of snacks, treats, and strange fruits that you were craving that you’ll never touch again. Not super helpful.
#3. Listen to music!
I LOVE popping in my headphones and listening to my best Nancy Myers-type playlist on Spotify. Whenever I don’t have the ability to listen to something upbeat and fun, I realize that the grocery store becomes a lot more stressful and aggravating. If you romanticize the experience, odds are, it’ll be a lot more fun.
#4. Have your grocery “uniform” ready to go.
Much like working at a desk instead of your bed is beneficial for productivity, having certain things you always bring with you to the grocery store acts in the same way. My mom bought be this adorable market bag from Food52 for Christmas, and it’s my favorite thing to carry around when I’m getting things for dinner. It really makes me excited to go! Plus, if you’re planning on buying wine, flowers, etc. on your venture – this particular bag has storage for that too.
#5. Get to know your stores.
Not every store is going to have what you need. Specialty gluten-free? Probably have to hit Whole Foods. Some special type of salsa you can only get at the corner store. Gotta make a second-stop.
Knowing what the grocery stores you frequent carry can save you a LOT of time and energy. Especially if you’re crafting a long recipe and happen to need something from each spot. Ugh.
But even outside of knowing what they have – it’s knowing where it is. Make mental notes as you go through, and as soon as you could walk the aisles blindfolded, you’ll be speeding through there in no time.
Do you think we missed anything? Have any suggestions that could make grocery store visits even better? Let us know in the comments!
