Grocery Tips

1. Affordable Grocery Stores

For budget-conscious students, these stores are lifesavers:

• Trader Joe’s: Famous for its affordable organic options, pre-packaged meals, and snacks. Pro tip: Go during non-peak hours (weekday mornings or late evenings) to avoid long lines.

• Aldi: Offers great deals on staples like milk, bread, and produce. Bring your reusable bags, as they charge for plastic ones.

• Costco: Perfect if you can split a membership with roommates and buy in bulk.

• Key Food & Associated Supermarkets: Local chains with frequent deals and loyalty programs.

2. Ethnic Markets for Authentic Flavors

NYC’s diversity shines through its specialty markets. Explore these for unique ingredients:

• H-Mart (Korean): Stock up on fresh kimchi, ramen, and marinated meats.

• Chinatown Markets: Affordable produce, fresh seafood, and Asian pantry staples. Visit places like New Kam Man or Hong Kong Supermarket.

• Kalustyan’s (Middle Eastern & Indian): A treasure trove for spices, grains, and exotic snacks.

• Italian Markets: Visit Arthur Avenue in the Bronx for authentic pasta, cheeses, and cured meats.

3. Online Grocery Delivery

Busy schedule? Let groceries come to you:

• Amazon Fresh: Convenient and quick, especially with Prime membership.

• Instacart: Shop from multiple stores and get same-day delivery.

• Local Stores: Many NYC grocers like Fairway and FreshDirect offer online delivery options.