Guide to Austin Grocery Retailers

Foodbevy

June 18, 2023

Austin, TX has grown as an awesome food hub especially with Whole Foods Market being headquartered in the city. It’s also home to cult-favorite retailer Central Market, which at one time was the second most visited attraction, second to the State Capital Building.

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(Photo: Donald E.)

Central Market

Central Market in Austin stands out as an exceptional large grocery store, renowned for its remarkable produce and affordable prices.

Highlights:

  • Knowledgeable butchers, fish mongers, and wine specialists.
  • Offer invaluable assistance in meal pairings and budget considerations. 
  • Cheese specialist excels in catering to hosting needs and personal cravings.
  • Bulk section, a paradise for Austinite hippies, offers an extensive range of options, including various types of flour and substitutes, as well as an enticing assortment of spices at remarkably affordable prices.
  • Relaxed shopping experience.

(Photo: Texas Real Food)

Fresh Plus Grocery

They offer a wide variety of wines and beers, along with imported cheeses, specialty meats, fruits, and vegetables. Their selection includes a range of organic and locally sourced products, catering to customers’ diverse preferences. Additionally, their deli section provides freshly prepared entrees, sides, soups, and sandwiches, while the meat department boasts a delectable assortment of in-house smoked meats. 

Highlights:

  • A neighborhood grocery store that offers a convenient shopping experience.
  • Reasonably priced.
  • Their selection of health and niche foods is impressive for a smaller store.
  • The deli counter offers delicious premade foods.
  • The store is well stocked with a variety of high-quality products. 
  • Affordable options like organic produce and tea.
  • Sufficient for creating tasty and healthy meals.
  • The wine and beer selection is great, and the deli and butchery stand out for their freshness and quality. 

(Photo: Francis S.)

MT Supermarket

MT Supermarket is a large Asian grocery store in central Texas. They are proud to offer an impressive selection of hard-to-find, as well as staple, Asian products. They have wide-ranging product assortment includes, but is not limited to, unique Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Vietnamese, Filipino, Thai, Indonesian, and Indian groceries.

Highlights:

  • Entertaining and great place for experience.
  • Largest visited Asian grocery with a wide variety of items.
  • Good selection of produce at reasonable prices.
  • Fish area had a strong ocean smell, fresh fish in high demand.
  • Meat department offered unique cuts, option to buy pork with or without skin.
  • Courteous staff.
  • Diverse flavors from Chinese, Thai, Korean, and more.

(Photo: Kurt K.)

H-E-B

H-E-B Grocery Company, LP, is an American privately held supermarket chain based in San Antonio, Texas, with more than 380 stores throughout the U.S. state of Texas and northeast Mexico. The company also operates Central Market, an upscale organic and fine foods retailer.

Highlights:

  • Outstanding prices at HEB, particularly in the 24-hour pharmacy.
  • Loyalty rewards card.
  • Cheap prices even without insurance, often significantly lower than other pharmacies.
  • Parking is usually not a problem.
  • Affordable wine section with great deals on brands like Santa Margarita and Duckhorn.
  • HEB tortillas are excellent, even better than those at many Austin restaurants.
  • Professional, friendly, and fast service at the HEB pharmacy, unlike others.
  • Drive-thru option available for added convenience.

(Photo: Heather B.)

Randalls

From our deli, bakery, fresh produce and helpful pharmacy staff, Randalls got you covered.

Highlights:

  •  Their bakery features customizable cakes, cupcakes and more while the deli offers a variety of party trays, made to order.
  • Their pick up service; Order Ahead, even allows you to place your bakery order online so its ready for you when you get there. 
  • The butchers block you’ll find an assortment of meat and seafood, while the produce department is full of fresh fruits and veggies galore.
  • They offer Grocery Delivery and DriveUp & Go™ to save your time.

(Photo: Solomon R.)

H Mart

H Mart is an Asian-American supermarket chain that has been in business for over 37 years. They specialize in Asian and American groceries, meats, seafood, produce, housewares, and ready-made meals. H Mart’s success is due to our continuous commitment to the freshest ingredients in all our tasteful offerings, while never forgetting that value is just as important. Their culture brings in new customers every day.

Highlights:

  • H Mart takes pride in its food quality and strives to provide customers with joy.
  • Offers the best quality produce for fresher meals every day.
  • Wide selection of Asian and international groceries from around the globe.
  • Provides a one-stop shopping experience, including fresh groceries and exquisite restaurants.
  • Carries Korean, Japanese, and other ethnic items that are hard to find elsewhere.
  • Extensive unique produce and diverse sections, such as sukiyaki meat and seafood.
  • Mini food court, with the cotton candy shaping automated machine being a popular attraction.

(Photo: Shahi Foods)

Shahi Foods

Eastern European, Russian, Turkish, Mediterranean, African, Middle Eastern, South Asian groceries. They specialize in herbs, spices, fresh quality meats, smoked fish, cheese, Bengali sweets, and specialty chocolates.

Highlights:

  • Wonderful selection of Russian food and other former Soviet Union countries.
  • Offers a variety of unique ethnic food, including unexpected finds like Ethiopian gluten-free bread
  • Growing store with convenient location, great products, and excellent service.
  • Friendly and welcoming customer service that feels like visiting friends.
  • Fair prices for halal meat and extensive grocery selection for South Asian and Middle Eastern needs.
  • Availability of hard-to-find items at extremely cheap prices, such as teff flour, Ethiopian coffee, and hilsha fish.
  • Constantly receiving new shipments.
  • Cafe with authentic and delicious food.

(Photo: Royal Blue Grocery)

Royal Blue Grocery

Royal Blue is a compact urban grocery that was founded in Austin by business partners George Scariano Jr and Craig Staley. Small in size but not in it’s offering. Royal Blue has a little bit of everything, with the convenience of a quick trip and always great customer service. Called a Bodega by some, corner store by others – Royal Blue is a modern general store designed to serve the neighborhood where it’s located.

Highlights:

  • Impressive place with a great selection of food.
  • Super friendly and helpful staff.
  • Convenient location.
  • Suitable for early morning breakfast tacos, midday sandwiches, or pizza.
  • Wide range of quality snacks, beer, and wine available.
  • Health-conscious options, including vegan and vegetarian choices.
  • Combination of a grocery store and deli.
  • Grab-and-go grocery section with snacks, beverages, and some pre-made food items.

(Photo: Corrine R.)

 

Wheatsville Food Coop

Wheatsville Food Co-op specialized in fresh local and organic produce Fresh made deli foods salad and hot bar meat, seafood Fresh baked bread and specialty treats inclduing vegan and gluten free choices Fair Trade and organic Coffee bar Local, Organic and natural foods groceries with a great selection of specialty items like Gluten Free, raw foods and vegan items. Large bulk foods section with organic fair trade coffee and organic nut butters. Beer and Wine including local and organic selections.

Highlights:

  • The store offers plenty of free parking.
  • Emphasis is on organic and natural products.
  • There is a wide selection of produce.
  • The store also provides a good selection of meat alternatives.
  • There is a section for beer and wine at reasonable prices.
  • It is a cost-effective option for shopping, with discounts.
  • The staff is helpful.
  • Offers a variety of choices for body and food products, household items, and animal care.
  • They also provide options for to-go food and drinks.
  • Curbside pickup is available, which is ideal during the pandemic.

(Photo: Carla S.)

 

Thom's Market - Barton Springs

A locally grown independent neighborhood grocery selling a full selection of local and natural foods, craft beer, delicious boutique wines under $20, and quirky gifts! Four convenient locations in Austin: Barton Springs, Riverside, Spyglass and Burnet Road.

Highlights:

  • Thom’s offers high-end snacks and local products.
  • Super-friendly service.
  • Customers can enjoy WiFi and seating options at tables or bar stools.
  • Store has a vast selection of single beers priced at $1.85 each, allowing for mix-and-match purchases.
  • Visitors may receive a complimentary beer on their first visit, although it is not standard procedure.
  • Known for having a diverse range of products, including essentials, snacks, wine, and last-minute gifts.
  • The store’s location, service, selection, and staff contribute to its appeal.

(Photo: Mindy H.)

 

Dia's Market

Dia’s Market is a curated, specialty grocery store and deli serving north Austin, Texas including the Crestview, Brentwood, Highland, Wooten & Allandale neighborhoods – and beyond.

They have wide selection of locally- and internationally-procured products, including hot coffee & pastries, fresh produce, dairy items, frozen foods, delicious breakfast & lunch deli sandwiches, beer & wine, snacks, fine chocolate and grocery staples. 

Highlights:

  • Well-curated selection of independent brands, often local, offering unique and high-quality products.
  • Nice sandwich selection, with a recommended delicious Barbarino sandwich for Italian sandwich lovers.
  • Friendly service and welcoming atmosphere create a positive experience.
  • Rare gourmet items like the radiatori pasta are stocked, showcasing Dia’s commitment to unique offerings.
  • Large selection of healthy snacks and drinks complement the sandwich options.
  • Advantages include being a local business, ample parking, and consistently nice and friendly service.
  • Impressive wine selection curated by knowledgeable staff.
  • Varied lunch menu with delicious soups, sandwiches, and sides.
  • Chilled beer and wine case for convenient beverage options.
  • Unique products like spicy beyond burger breakfast patties can be found at Dia’s.

(Photo: Rabbit Food Grocery)

 

Rabbit Food Grocery

Rabbit Food Grocery is an all-vegan grocery and shop located in Austin, TX. They stock vegan specialty items from around the world, pantry staples, cool snacks, vegan clothing and gifts.

Highlights:

  • Impressed by the variety of familiar and unfamiliar brands available.
  • Store supplies food from both local vendors and mainstream companies.
  • Friendly employees provided helpful answers to questions.
  • Staff members are kind, helpful, and offer honest product reviews/recommendations.
  • Offers unique “speciality” items not found elsewhere in Austin.
  • Abundance of sweet and salty junk food, baking needs, frozen items, etc.

(Photo: Jennifer Y.)

 

Asahi Imports

Japanese grocery store and deli offering imported Japanese products including pantry items, sake, sushi ingredients, snacks, candy and prepared foods including bento boxes, onigiri, soft serve and more!

Highlights:

  • Offers a wide variety of Japanese grocery and convenience items
  • Weekly visits for onigiri, rice, sake, curry blocks, and Japanese beers
  • Expanded store with fresh food options.
  • Fun to browse and discover new products.
  • Friendly staff and easy ordering.
  • Special packaging preserves the crunch of onigiri seaweed wrapper.
  • Hidden gem in Austin with a well-supplied store.
  • Nicest team making quality Japanese food.
  • Cute and cozy convenience store with a large variety of items.
  • Reasonable prices.

(Photo: Lei C.)

 

TINYGROCER

Japanese grocery store and deli offering imported Japanese products including pantry items, sake, sushi ingredients, snacks, candy and prepared foods including bento boxes, onigiri, soft serve and more!

Highlights:

  • The shop offers a well-curated selection of high-quality grocery items, including locally and regionally sourced organic produce, specialty coffee, and novelty items.
  • The staff is very friendly and welcoming.
  • The store has a small deli area with fresh made salads, sandwiches, and other fantastic items.
  • The displays and organization are thoughtful, including the music selection.
  • The shop is compact but packed with a wide range of inventory.
  • The cold brew is fantastic and highly recommended.
  • The Sicilian Hoagie is described as the best sandwich in Austin.
  • All items in the shop are artisanal and hand-selected.

(Photo: Rebecca D.)

 

The Bee Grocery

The Bee Grocery and Deli, a locally owned East 6th Street Grocery and Deli, one-of-a-kind urban grocer dedicated to providing neighbors with an outstanding selection of fresh and prepared foods, beverages, and household necessities. 

Highlights:

  • The Bee Grocery and Deli is a locally owned East 6th Street Grocery and Deli.
  • They provide an outstanding selection of fresh and prepared foods, beverages, and household necessities.
  • The Bee is designed for regular visits and offers wholesome ingredients for cooking at home or ready-to-eat meals.
  • Their offerings include a full deli case, hand-selected produce, a walk-in beer cooler, and an extensive wine selection.
  • They serve freshly prepared Vietnamese and French specialties like bánh mì, vermicelli, spring rolls, pastries, and house-baked baguettes.
  • Indoor and outdoor seating with free WiFi is available, along with a full-service espresso bar.
  • They allow dogs inside and provide treats for them.
  • Masks are required, and there is a plexiglass divider between the customers and the register.
  • The food delivery service is prompt, and the prices are appropriate for the portions.
  • The spring rolls and peanut sauce are delicious, and the bánh mì bread is excellent.
  • The convenience and quality make it a preferred choice for dining.
  • The proximity to the Corazon apartments is a bonus.

(Photo: Rachel E.)

 

Brookshire Brothers

Brookshire Brothers is an employee-owned, community-driven grocer based in Lufkin, Texas. Founded in 1921, this regional grocery chain operates more than 120 locations that stretch over 40,000 square miles in Texas and Louisiana, including many rural areas. Its assets include traditional grocery and express stores, as well as freestanding pharmacy, petro and tobacco locations.

Highlights:

  • The size of the store met expectations and fits well within the town.
  • The checkout process was efficient and quick.
  • Attention to detail and overall appealing appearance.
  • The addition of another pharmacy option is highly appreciated.
  • The store maintains cleanliness, and the staff is friendly.
  • The variety of products and different selections are enjoyable to explore.
  • Offers groceries and a large deli section, including handmade sushi.
  • Provides smoked BBQ options, with positive feedback on fried chicken, brisket, potato salad, and mashed potatoes with gravy.
  • Affordable options, including a $6 lunch special with beef in gravy over rice, two side dishes, and a drink.
  • Appreciation for an alternative grocery store in Lago Vista, which is large and offers a great selection.
  • The impressive size of the deli area.
  • The store provides convenience and reducing the need to drive to neighboring towns for shopping.
  • Brookshire Brothers revitalizing the previously vacant shopping center.

(Photo: Tara S.)

 

The Bread Basket Food Store

Established in 2004. They start the same as any another store. They start fixing and adding all kind of wine , beer, tobacco from all around the world to give customers all what they need on one stop.

Highlights:

  • The clerks at Bread Basket are friendly and enjoy my jokes.
  • Bread Basket is a convenience store with a well-stocked wine selection.
  • The store has a variety of candies and goodies for customers.
  • Bread Basket has a diverse beer section and a surprising selection of wine.
  • The staff, particularly the Jordanian owners, are fantastic and provide great service.
  • Bread Basket also offers an impressive array of Mexican snacks and moon pies.
  • The store is well-maintained.

(Photo: Tara S.)

 

Fiesta Foods

Fiesta Mart is one of the preferred retailer within the communities they cater to, prioritizing the provision of fresh products while offering optimal value to its esteemed customers. The company takes pride in embracing the significance of food, life, and the rich Texan heritage. Through its extensive assortment of products and unparalleled pricing, Fiesta Mart ensures that individuals from all walks of life can effortlessly locate their desired items and obtain exceptional value for their monetary investments during each visit to the establishment.

Highlights:

  • Great selection of fruits and vegetables.
  • Variety of Filipino seasonings available.
  • Reliable supply of yerba mate.
  • Excellent selection of Latin American products.
  • Competitive prices for imports.
  • Tasty and reasonably priced on-site prepared meals.
  • Great customer service from the seafood department.
  • Efficient and polite service on a busy Sunday.
  • High-quality seafood
  • Mixed opinion on Mexican pastries (Pan Dulce is dry, but tres leches and flans are delicious)
  • Accommodating return policy.

(Photo: Rachael B.)

 

Total Wine & More

Total Wine & More is America’s Wine Superstore® — the country‘s largest independent retailer of fine wine.  They operate 249 superstores across 27 states and continue to grow. They are committed to offering the nation’s best wine selection, with an emphasis on fine wines. Their typical store carries more than 8,000 different wines from every wine-producing region in the world.

Highlights:

  • Easy parking when visiting the store.
  • Informed and helpful staff.
  • Abundant selection of wine, spirits, craft beer, and cigars.
  • Good frequent purchase program.
  • Manager offered samples of bourbons and provided helpful recommendations.
  • Consistent product offerings across Total Wine locations.
  • Assistance from a helpful employee in locating the vodka section.
  • Convenient checkout experience with a wine bag with dividers.

(Photo: Danielle C.)

 

Quickie Pickie

Quickie Pickie has been a neighborhood institution for more than 25 years, newly updated to keep pace with 11th Street’s revitalization.

Part convenience grocery, part café, part beer joint, they are a hybrid uniquely suited to the neighborhood in the same way the bodegas of the northeast, the packed little colmados of Latin America, and the bar-tabacs of Paris and Marseille are uniquely suited to theirs.

Highlights:

  • Quikie Pickie is a small convenience store with a grill and draft beer.
  • The store offers a variety for impulse purchases like canned coffee drinks, chips, cookies, fresh fruit, and tacos.
  • The grill serves made-to-order food such as tacos and burgers.
  • There is a decent selection of beers on tap.
  • The store has a welcoming front porch where people can enjoy their meals and drinks.
  • The cashiers are friendly, providing a good overall experience.
  • Parking in front of the store is tight, but there is more room to maneuver behind the market.
  • The Hackberry Taco (Migas Taco with avocado and poblano peppers) is a popular and consistent choice.
  • Quikie Pickie’s fresh salsas are exceptionally delicious.
  • The store’s tacos are a good brunch alternative to nearby spots like PaperBoy and Hillside Farmacy.

(Photo: Jennifer T.)

 

Marigold Market & Cafe

Local market with a huge selection of beer, wine, snacks, grocery and household items + cafe with fresh food, bakery, beer and kombucha on tap, and grab-and-go items.

Highlights:

  • Tacos were delicious, ordered chorizo and egg and a cowboy taco.
  • Cashiers at both the general store and cafe were friendly.
  • Cute little market and cafe with a variety of items.
  • Perfect for corner store groceries and specialty items.
  • Pazole soup was amazing, highly recommended.
  • Will definitely return, a hidden gem known by locals.
  • Toasted sourdough bread and gooey cheese made it special.
  • Affordable meal with chips included.
  • Left feeling happy and full.
  • Will try carne and mahi mahi tacos next time
  • Bonus points for playing KUTX for background ambiance

(Photo: Native Grocery)

 

Native Grocery

Upscale Neighborhood store. We carry a large selection of wine and local craft beers! Lots of organic products.

Highlights:

  • The market stores have a fairly sized menu with gyro as a meat option.
  • Native Grocery has a decent selection of food, snacks, drinks, etc.
  • The staff at Native Grocery are generally helpful.
  • The location of Native Grocery is very convenient.
  • Native Grocery sells rare condiments, beverages, wine, and beer.
  • They have a lot of vegetarian options for a solid lunch.
  • Native Grocery has a variety of items and is not overpriced.
  • They have a huge beer selection and serve breakfast tacos in the morning.
  • Native Grocery provides convenient essentials without the need for a separate trip.
  • The employees at Native Grocery were nice and happy to be in the neighborhood.

(Photo: Nav M.)

 

The Austinite Market

High-end specialty market for groceries & prepared foods, beer & wine.

Highlights:

  • The customer service is always exceptional, providing assistance with my bulky stroller.
  • The aisles are wide enough.
  • They serve Taco Deli breakfast tacos and carry the salsa as well.
  • Finding the items that is needed has never been a problem.
  • They offer a variety of healthy snack options.
  • The staff is friendly and engaging, creating a welcoming atmosphere.
  • Apple Pay is accepted for convenient transactions.
  • The store offers a wide range of local Austin goods.
  • They have a new walk-in cooler and an expanded wine selection.

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