carrieann
I live on about 2 blocks up from the new QFC. And as someone who would often walk by the “creepy old boarded-up building” (as put by my daughter) that used to be there, I’m glad to see the new store completed and opened. I took my son in yesterday before picking my daughter up at school, and had a mostly positive experience. In fact, the only really negative thing I could find was the attitude of some of the other shoppers there. (One woman was, rather loudly, flipping out about the elevators taking a little while to arrive, and seemed confused about what floor to press, not remembering where she parked.)
After reading the reviews about the “awful music”, I made it a point to roll down my window and listen for it when I pulled into the parking garage. I could hear some tunes, but it seems like they must’ve turned it down, because it wasn’t blaring or any more obnoxious than the music I’ve heard at other stores. (Ever walked into an Old Navy?) I drive a larger car and was able to navigate and find a spot just fine, but can see the potential for trouble when it’s perhaps a busier shopping time.
The samples (produce, sushi, baked goods, coffee, meat, etc) were abundant and tasty, and the employees handing them out were friendly and helpful (ended up with a seasoned skirt steak after the gentleman in the meat department offered some up and gave his input on how I should prepare it) Found some excellent savings (seedless grapes for 78cents/lb, 4 containers of raspberries/$5, Annie’s Mac & Cheese for 99cents…) and, as always, left with more than was on my original list. I had offers of assistance when it appeared I was looking for an item, but not in a pushy or annoying way. The employees I encountered were all really great, actually, down to the kid who gave a smile and genuine, “Thank you!” when he saw me rolling a train of carts back to the elevators after someone ditched them in the middle of other nearby parking spots.
I went in there with an open mind, hopeful for good things but realizing they’re a new establishment with some kinks to work out. Honestly, I’m glad that there’s now a QFC closer than Westwood and intend to do as much of my shopping there as possible (with some Met Market and PCC still tossed in for good measure). I’ve long-since been a Safeway shopper, but it seems like things have really gone down hill @ the Junction one.