austin
I think the new QFC is alright. So far I haven’t noticed it being over the top or exceptional but nice enough. I went two times yesterday, once in a car and once on foot, and I didn’t make a point of checking out everything. I don’t think I’ve ever been to a grocery store on opening day before, and I was joined by most of the rest of the neighborhood. I found the parking garage to be somewhat unpleasant, reminiscent of the garage under blue c sushi in fremont, but less roomy. Cars were honking at each other and the lanes are narrow enough that if you’re not in an automobile, you’re in the way. I’d have thought that with the unfortunate parking situation at Jefferson Square they’d have made a point of setting up a less awkward garage, but they did not. Maybe it’ll be better when the grand-opening rush dies down. Also I realize that taste in music is subjective but the music they play over the PA system in the garage is out of place at best. The stairs to the garage are on the other side of starbucks from the checkout lines, near the front door.. When I first came down from the garage I couldn’t tell if I was inside or outside. I was inside.
I found the microbrew 6-pack selection to be less ample than other QFCs I’ve been to but better than safeway, and the 12-pack area seemed like it was mostly redhook and deschutes. However the 22 oz bottles selection is nice. The produce section looked good for a grocery store. I didn’t see a lot of fresh baked goods, maybe it was my timing? Safeway has french bread that I like, and they also sell 99% isopropyl, which is relatively uncommon. So while the new store is nice, and will have novelty value for some time, it seems little redundant for the location. I don’t have a problem with it though, and am glad they didn’t put a hole there instead.