Elrod’s Cost Plus

We used to go to this store when we first moved here. We thought it was reasonably priced and had a good enough selection (and LOTS of things to make Mexican food, which we love to eat). But then we realized that they were charging us up to an additional 20% of our bill!
What we didn’t realize is that as cheap as their prices are, they’re charging you way more than that in «fees». Don’t go here unless you’re willing to pay 20% more than what you thought it would cost.

While browsing in this Elrod’s, it reminded me of what I remember a grocery store (especially Piggly Wiggly) looking like when I was a little kid.
Overall, I really enjoy exploring new (to me) and ethnic store like these. Since I’m not familiar with all of the products they carry, it makes me feel like I’m exploring some exotic food market in another country like Anthony Bourdain.
Anyhow, I would say that 60 — 70% of the store is made up of Latin products (the remainder being stuff that you can find at any ordinary grocery store).
The staff seemed friendly enough, and the store looked pretty clean (almost pristinely so in some areas).
I guess the reason that it reminds me so much of a Piggly WIggly is because of the points program they offer (collect points and buy stuff).
It’s interesting to see that this is still being done at some stores.
Anyhow, go check it out for yourself.
And while you’re there, walk over to the Dollar General and look in the store just before you get to it. It doesn’t have a name (that I could see), but it’s a store none the less.
I’ll go ahead and answer your initial reaction here… «I know, right».
That place is ridiculous, they have stuff crammed everywhere (almost up to the ceiling) with a tiny walkway weaving through it.
I’ve never seen a store like that either. :)