Food Basics

I do not live in the area, but I usually visit this Food Basics once or twice a year whenever I am nearby running errands. It is a fairly large location and convenient for anyone who lives close. The store carries a good variety of products, and most flyer deals are in stock, which is something I always appreciate. You usually do not need to ask a manager for a rain check if something is unavailable. Staff are generally accommodating and helpful.

On this visit, we came to pick up some basic groceries. One of the highlights was corn on sale at twelve for one dollar and eighty-eight cents, which works out to about fifteen cents each. It was a great seasonal deal, especially for summer barbecues or meals at home. We found everything we needed, and overall prices were very reasonable.

That said, the store feels average compared to other Food Basics locations I have visited. It is not the most organized or cleanest, and the experience can be a bit hectic depending on the time and day. During this visit, I noticed a sign above the corn bin that said “Do Not Husk.” Unfortunately, several customers were peeling the husks off the corn anyway. I did not want to confront anyone, but it was disappointing to see. It creates a mess and causes the corn to dry out faster, making it harder to sell and less enjoyable for others. Some staff passed by looking understandably frustrated. I think some customers either did not read the sign or may not understand why it matters, but I felt bad for the employees who had to deal with the aftermath.

One standout from our visit was Cashier 155. She had long hair and a nose piercing and was very friendly, efficient, and professional. Her positive attitude really made a difference at checkout. If I were rating her alone, I would give her five stars.

Another thing worth mentioning is that this store participates in the MOI Rewards program, which is shared with Metro since they are owned by the same company. You can easily sign up at the small kiosk inside the store or online. It is quick to register, and there are often great deals and points you can earn on select items. It is a nice perk for frequent shoppers and definitely adds value to your grocery trips.

The location of this Food Basics is also very convenient. It is situated at Victoria Park and Sheppard in a busy plaza with lots of nearby stores and services. There is a BMO bank close by if you need to take care of banking, and Winners is next door if you want to browse clothing or home goods. Paramount Fine Foods is also nearby and offers delicious Middle Eastern food if you are looking for a place to eat after shopping. The plaza even has a Chuck E. Cheese, which makes it a good option for families. There is a hair salon and a gas station nearby as well, so it is a great spot if you are trying to check off a few errands in one trip.

Overall, this Food Basics is a solid and affordable grocery store. It gets the job done and has some great deals, but it could benefit from better organization and more attention to in-store etiquette. Still, if you are in the area, it is a practical choice with good prices and helpful staff.