Hey you, yes you! Are you hungry? If yes, then me too; we’ve all been there. And if not, you will be eventually! But what if nothing’s left in the fridge? Then it’s time for that dreaded grocery run. Carrying bags of produce (especially on the city bus) can be challenging, but hopefully, this local grocery store guide will help in your search for food. Whether you’re just looking to restock your dorm’s snack stash or you’re cooking all of your meals independently, there’s a spot for you to get your fix somewhere nearby. While some grocery stores in the Burlington area are more of a splurge, there are also budget-friendly options for you to enjoy. I’ve organized all the notable local grocery stores by price point below. I’ll highlight some of the best and some of the easiest places to go grab your groceries. And, I’ll even mention some of the BOREDies recs from each place, so keep reading! *Note: Prepare to write a grocery list. We also have food recs!!!
Just click through the different price tabs for a comprehensive list of the local spots with tips and insider info ;).
Walmart – 863 Harvest Ln, Williston, VT
If you need anything at HomeDepot (hardware store), you can combine that visit with a good old trip to Walmart. And, I must plug Walmart for their tech support, although that has nothing to do with groceries. If you ever need a projector adapter late at night and you don’t know what you’re looking for, they will have just the right thing. As far as groceries, this is the spot to get fresh produce for a good price, as well as your favorite frozen items. One of our team members is incredibly passionate about the Sofia Vergara x Walmart collaboration (Toma) frozen croquettes, so you should give those a try!
Pricechopper – 41 Hinesburg Rd, South Burlington, VT
The name says it all; this is the place for deal hunting. If you’re looking for classic retail offerings and sale prices, then this is the spot. This grocery store is no frills, just food. Easy to peruse, and unlike my GOAT Trader Joe’s (which will be plugged later), the aisles are much less eyecatching so it’s a quick in and out. This is, perchance, one of the only stores on this list that I would trust myself to shop hungry at. Our team suggests you keep an eye out for the chicken deals (typically on Tuesday and Wednesday) and try the freshly-baked bread from the Pricechopper bakery.
Market 32 – 595 Shelburne Rd, Burlington, VT
Here’s a little secret: Market 32 is actually just a rebranded PriceChopper. Owned by the same corporation, it has many retail offerings and good deals with somewhat more of an Organic focus. The layout of the store is by far its most notable quality. I suggest flowing through the store starting in the bakery section, because the day-old pastries are bomb. And our team had one recommendation for you: the hot bar food. It’s classic, it’s good, and it doesn’t try to be exceptional, but it can certainly surprise you.
Shaw’s – 570 Shelburne Rd, Burlington, VT
I’ll start by saying if you ever need a birthday cake in a pinch, then go to their bakery. In general, Shaw’s is the spot to see a fusion of local and name-brand items in a classic store space. Our team loves them for their fresh produce, prepared food, and their fish market. It’s that simple with Shaw’s.
Hannaford – 217 Dorset St, South Burlington, VT
This is a great stop to tag on to a visit to Target, as it’s right next to the U-Mall. The Hannafords is another go-to for brand-name favorites and the occasional deal. This Hannaford’s in particular is on the smaller side, so keep that in mind when forming your grocery list, as some items are difficult to find. Our team recommends the Smore fixings in their candy section.
Trader Joe’s – 200 Dorset St, South Burlington, VT
My personal favorite chain grocery store, and the best place to be performative. Trader Joe’s has most of the classics, and typically only a few options of each. The store is honestly perfect for indecicives, the aisle offerings are simple but eye-catching. And I can’t stress enough how welcoming the staff is; asking them if you’re lost in the array of products is typically a breeze. Our team recommends the butternut squash mac and cheese, 3-layer hummus, and peanut butter cups (not paired together, per se, but if you’re brave, then try that combo).
Target – 155 Dorset St, South Burlington, VT
The thing is, groceries are certainly overpriced at Target, but I’ve found that you can luck out and find deals depending on when you go. The appeal of going to Target is not just the Starbucks (sorry, anti-capitalists) but also the toiletry selection. Need to stock up on bathroom essentials? I gotta say target is your girl. Our team would also like to tell you (on the down low) that Annie’s mac and cheese is cheaper at Target than at other retailers (you’re welcome)!
Costco – 218 Lower Mountain View Dr, Colchester, VT
Want to go shopping once a month? Stock up at Costco then. Most of their items are sold in bulk, so be prepared to fill up your food storage spaces quickly. The best thing about buying in bulk is that it’s cheaper, but the other perk of buying in bulk is that you can shop less! I recommend restocking drinks, cleaning products, and snacks at Costco. My personal must-haves from Costco are the fresh-baked croissants and the Aqua ViTea kombucha pack.
City Market – 82 S Winooski Ave, Burlington, VT
Arguably the best option we have downtown, City Market is the perfect place to get a random assortment of snacks or to snag some fresh produce. They have a really nice bulk section, which is lovely if you’re looking to get a very specific amount of a certain product (granola, trail mix, dried fruit, and such). It’s a nice walk from campus down the hill towards Church Street, so make an outing of your visit. And while you’re at it, our team urges you to try the mango sticky rice; it’s a fan favorite.
Jake’s ONE Market – 242 N Winooski Ave, Suite 2, Burlington, VT
Situated in the Old North End (hence ONE), this market is the spot to grab groceries in a well-curated place. This is the spot if you’re looking for inspiration. You’ll find staple ingredients and unique combos in this grocery. Our team also wants to highlight the surprisingly robust selection of baking supplies they always have in stock
Momo’s – 141 N Willard St, Burlington, VT
Momo’s is a classic neighborhood shop, yet it offers a wide selection of the best Vermont products. This quaint stop is perfect for grabbing a quick bite, too, and I highly recommend the momo. If youre looking for something sweet, the cookies are a must-have. Our team also has to tip you off to the free breakfast sandwiches late in the day that are also a must-try (and FREE)!
Always Full – 179 Bank St, Burlington, VT
Situated right on Church Street, this market is a must for anyone looking to spice up their favorite dishes, stock up on some fun snacks, or treat themselves to a fresh boba tea. This asian market is locally owned and filled with a fun selection. The produce is incredible, and should certainly be paired with a sauce from their selection as well. Our team recommends the chicken dumplings, boba tea, of course (my order is the grapefruit boba), and the bok choy!
Healthy Living – 222 Dorset St, South Burlington, VT
I should warn you, you will get lost in this store, and that’s okay. It is designed as a circular maze, but all the aisles are majestic. This is the place to go if you’re looking for well-made, pre-prepared food and niche snack combos. While it isn’t the most affordable, there are so many items that you won’t be able to resist breaking the bank for. And, situated right next to Trader Joe’s, you can always shop at both places in one grocery run! Our team would like to highlight the coconut milk-based ice cream selection (hence the niche offerings comment) and the sushi, which is prepared fresh every day.
And that’s my comprehensive review of the local grocery offerings in Burlington. Did I miss any of your favorite spots? Leave a comment! Also, thank you for reading. I wish you absolutely no forgotten grocery items, but many yummy meals! Happy shopping!
