Groceries

Question

We arrived yesterday, have rented a house near Kailua-Kona and had intended to go to the Safeway on Henry Street to stock up on groceries. Upon pulling into the parking lot, we saw that it is permanently closed (!). So we proceeded to several other stores and here are some impressions:

Sack n Save - run down and very limited selection of fresh fruits

Island Naturals Market - many bare shelves but some health foods and bulk items

KTA super store - this is ultimately where we bought most of what we needed to get started, but again out of a lot of items (e.g. not a single tub of cottage cheese to be had)

Are there other options? We have resisted going to the big box stores that sell groceries, but maybe this is the only viable option currently? Any input would be helpful.

Answer

It's unfortunate that Safeway on Henry Street is closed, but there are still a few grocery stores in the Kailua-Kona area that can help you stock up on supplies. While it seems like some stores are running low on stock, here are a few other options to consider for your grocery shopping:

1. KTA Super Stores (Kailua-Kona and Keauhou):

KTA Super Stores are a popular local chain, and they tend to carry a good selection of fresh produce, dairy, and other groceries. However, it seems like even they have had some supply issues recently, with some items out of stock (like cottage cheese).
The Kailua-Kona KTA is located on Palani Road, and the Keauhou location is another option a bit farther south. While the selection may not be perfect, it's generally a reliable place to find the basics.

2. Walmart (Kailua-Kona):

If you are willing to visit a big-box store, Walmart in Kailua-Kona can be a good option. They carry a wide range of groceries at competitive prices, though, like other big-box stores, it can get crowded and busy.
Walmart has a larger inventory and tends to carry most mainstream grocery items, including dairy, meats, frozen foods, snacks, and fresh produce. It can be a good place to find bulk items and more budget-friendly options, though it may not be as local or fresh as some specialty stores.

3. Whole Foods Market (Kailua-Kona):

If you're looking for organic or specialty food items, Whole Foods Market is another option in Kailua-Kona. It’s located near the waterfront and offers a variety of health-conscious and organic products.
While Whole Foods tends to be more expensive, they do offer fresh produce, prepared foods, and a good selection of natural products. It’s a great place to find specific items like vegan products, gluten-free items, or local food options.

4. Costco (Kailua-Kona):

If you have a Costco membership or can get access to one, the Costco in Kailua-Kona can be a great option for bulk items and grocery staples. While it may not have as many fresh fruits and vegetables as local stores, it can be a great place for things like bulk meats, dairy, and non-perishable items.
Costco tends to have competitive prices on a wide range of products, but keep in mind that you might need to go earlier in the day to avoid the crowds.

5. Greenwell Farms Market (Kealakekua):

For a more local and unique shopping experience, Greenwell Farms Market is located a bit south of Kailua-Kona in Kealakekua. While it's not a full-service grocery store, they offer local produce and items from local farms, including fruits and vegetables. It’s also a great spot to grab locally grown coffee.
It's an excellent place for fresh, local items, and you can find more island-inspired ingredients here. It's worth stopping by if you're looking for something unique and local.

6. Alii Gardens Marketplace (Kailua-Kona):

Located in the heart of Kailua-Kona, Alii Gardens Marketplace offers a variety of local produce, handmade goods, and some grocery items. This is more of a small local market, but it’s a great place for fresh fruits, veggies, and local food items like baked goods and honey.
It’s a good stop if you’re looking for something more unique and local, though it might not have the full selection of a larger grocery store.

7. Target (Kailua-Kona):

Target in Kailua-Kona offers a limited selection of groceries, including fresh produce, dairy, meats, and packaged goods. While it may not be the most comprehensive grocery store, it's a convenient option if you're already in the area and need to pick up a few essentials.
Prices at Target are generally competitive, and you can combine grocery shopping with picking up other household items as well.

Conclusion:

While Safeway’s closure is a setback, there are still several good options in Kailua-Kona. KTA Super Stores and Walmart are your best bets for mainstream grocery items, while Whole Foods and Greenwell Farms provide more specialty and local food options. If you’re looking for bulk supplies, Costco is a solid choice. Consider visiting a combination of these stores to get a good mix of items depending on your needs. Happy shopping!

Groceries

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