First, we must introduce Chinese supermarkets
The characteristic of Chinese supermarkets is that you can find Chinese food, seasonings, and utensils that cannot be found elsewhere. Some meat and vegetable prices are quite cheap. Generally, large cities have a Chinatown, and of course, they have Chinese stores. However, most small cities do not have a Chinatown, although even in small cities, there are usually one or two Chinese supermarkets. In such cases, the Chinese stores are not as good as those in large cities in terms of variety or price. Recommended items to buy: vegetables, seasonings, some meats (such as fish, animal offal), frozen foods like dumplings, rice, and Chinese or Korean snacks. However, it is important to remind you to pay attention to the production date when buying items in Chinese supermarkets.
The second category is Wal-Mart and Target
As representatives of large American supermarkets, these two provide us with a large number of various daily necessities at relatively low prices. I think everything there is quite good, except for a few categories: clothing (unless there is a special discount, I personally think the prices of clothes here have no advantage over branded clothing), electronic products, sports equipment, and decorations. In addition, most office supplies that can be bought here are cheaper than office supply stores like Office Depot. But as for the overall quality, you can judge for yourself.
The third category is American warehouse clubs
Such as Costco and Sam’s. Costco is another type of large American supermarket; simply put, it is wholesale-level retail, so the quality of products sold here may be better than Wal-Mart, and the prices are relatively better. The corresponding disadvantage is that the purchase volume is large at one time, and a membership card is required. But for families or friends who share expenses, it is very cost-effective. In general, for the same type of product, if I can buy it at Costco, I won't buy it at Wal-Mart, and if I can buy it at Wal-Mart, I won't buy it at other local stores. It is also worth mentioning that their health supplements, snacks, and other products are better than Wal-Mart's. At the same time, you can also find delicious roasted lamb chops, steaks, and various other foods here. The quality of their fresh products such as seafood and fruits is very good, and there are some very distinctive popular foods, such as shrimp wontons, cheesecake, cream puffs, and winter-limited truffle chocolates. If you are returning to your home country, you can come here to buy some gifts to take back, such as various multivitamins or other health supplements, as well as some perfumes and cosmetics (brands that have appeared include EA, Olay, ROC, Borghese, etc.).
The fourth category is American convenience stores
This type of supermarket is called a drugstore, but it sells more than just medicine. It is a bit like Watsons in China, focusing on daily necessities and food. It is the representative of street-side convenience stores. The characteristic is that they are widely distributed, but the prices are slightly higher. You can choose this for buying a small amount of daily necessities. Of course, if you catch the right coupon or clearance period, you can also find very good deals.
There is another category that sells more organic food
Such as Whole Foods and Trader Joe’s. Whole Foods is a supermarket truly focused on health. If you are very particular about food quality, have a small appetite, or are willing to invest in food, it is recommended to choose this supermarket. Here you can find the most complete range of organic food in the city, as well as many private-label semi-finished products, hot and cold cooked food, and desserts to choose from. You can also dine in. Trader Joe’s is similar to the former but positioned slightly lower; some people jokingly call it a knock-off Whole Foods. Their specialty lies in their own small snacks, some of which can really evoke memories of snacks from back home.
The above is the general classification of large American supermarkets. After arriving in the United States, as you gradually become familiar with the situation, you will have a clearer understanding of your needs at each supermarket. In addition, online shopping in the United States is very common, and compared to physical stores, there are usually various offers and discounts.