Each of the grocery stores mentioned above have their pros and cons. For the most part, all of the grocery stores mentioned but Albertsons, really focus on healthy offerings. You can do organic meats, organic produce, organic – low sodium soups, fresh made sandwiches, sushi to go, and so much more! Henry’s specializes in a huge local produce section, typically at a very competitive price. If you can’t make it to a Sunday farmer’s market, Henry’s is a great alternative. If you are looking for gluten free offerings and desserts, Jimbo’s is our best alternative.

But what I really love about Trader Joe’s is their salad dressings and their packaged meal/snack alternatives. They have over 6 Trader Joe’s salad dressings in the refrigerated section that are under 70 calories per serving, many being under 45 calories per serving – their champagne pear vinaigrette, their cranberry walnut vinaigrette, and their spicy peanut vinaigrettes are my favorites! Their fresh breads, their brown rice pasta, their meats, wines, and cheeses are all some of the best prices around. The Encinitas Trader Joe’s is always packed. The Bressi Ranch Trader Joe’s is apparently still an unknown Carlsbad jewel. You can drive right up to the store, walk through the spacious aisles, do an entire week’s worth of grocery shopping, and check out, all within a half hour.

So, if you’re in a hurry, like to eat healthy, and need to do some grocery shopping… go try Trader Joe’s in Carlsbad.  Maybe one day, we’ll see you there!