Iconic Illinois Grocery Stores You Need to Know

New to Illinois? The grocery options can be overwhelming. Here's your decoder guide to local chains and where each shines.

The Major Players

Jewel-Osco

What it is: The quintessential Illinois grocery chain Best for: Everyday shopping, pharmacy needs, Chicagoland coverage

Jewel is everywhere in northern Illinois. Reliable, well-stocked, good sales. The deli's fried chicken has a cult following.

Pro tip: Their app has digital coupons that stack with sales.

Mariano's

What it is: Upscale Kroger-owned chain Best for: Quality produce, prepared foods, wine selection

More upscale feel than Jewel with better prepared food sections. Great olive bar and cheese selection.

Pro tip: Happy hour wine tastings at many locations.

Meijer

What it is: Michigan-based supercenter Best for: One-stop shopping, competitive prices

Think Target meets grocery store. Good prices, good selection, open 24 hours at most locations.

Woodman's

What it is: Employee-owned Wisconsin warehouse store Best for: Bulk buying, serious savings, huge selection

The selection is mind-boggling. Bring a list or you'll be there for hours. Cash/debit only (no credit).

Pro tip: Go during off-hours. Weekend afternoons are a zoo.

Aldi

What it is: German discount grocer Best for: Budget shopping, surprisingly good quality

Don't let the no-frills presentation fool you—quality is excellent and prices unbeatable. Bring a quarter for the cart and bags.

Trader Joe's

What it is: Unique specialty items, cult following Best for: Specialty items, frozen meals, snacks, wine

Limited selection but everything is curated. The $3 wines are famous for a reason.

Specialty & Ethnic Markets

H Mart (Various Chicago locations)

Korean supermarket with outstanding Asian produce, banchan, and food court.

Fresh Farms (Chicago suburbs)

International market with Middle Eastern, Eastern European, and Mediterranean specialty items.

Devon Avenue (Chicago)

Not one store but an entire strip of Indian, Pakistani, and Asian groceries.

Cermak Fresh Market

Chicago area chain with excellent Hispanic products and competitive produce prices.

Where to Shop for What

Money-Saving Tips

1. Stack apps - Jewel, Mariano's, and Meijer all have apps with digital coupons

2. Know your loss leaders - Each store has items they price aggressively

3. Don't sleep on Aldi - Their quality has improved dramatically

4. Ethnic markets for produce - Often much cheaper than chains

5. Check the clearance - Most stores have a discount produce/bakery section