An interesting comparison

Yesterday, we decided to pick up some food at the local grocery store, Waitrose. In New York, we rarely encounter a large grocery store, unless for some reason we go to the Whole Foods in Union Square. So, not only were we shocked by what we found in the store, we were initially overwhelmed with the size. Once inside, we searched every aisle for interesting products, good deals, and things to stock our tiny fridge with.

Our first big find were grapefruits. The prices were not only reasonable, it was cheaper to buy a Florida grapefruit here than in New York (if we were lucky in NY, and they were on sale, and in good condition, we could find grapefruit for 2 for $3, whereas here they are less than $1.40 not on sale). So we purchased some happily.

There was an entire aisle of prepared foods - mostly fresh, some frozen, and all with ingredients with names we could pronounce (a.k.a. no crazy additives). All were very reasonably priced and simple to prepare. We were also pleased to find complete liquor store withing the supermarket. The Whiskeys were amazingly cheap. Champagne and wines a bit more expensive than at home. And tons of interesting beers and ciders to test all inexpensive.

We left the store with at least 3 nights worth of dinners (for 2), 4 breakfasts (for 2), tea, snacks, and a newspaper for about $40 American. Less than we've ever spent for the same amount of food in Manhattan.