In article >,
"Julie Bove" > wrote:

> So I now know that these two are one and the same. I do remember seeing a
> Smart and Final in Oakland. I always wanted to go there but was never able
> to.
>
> So for those of you who go there... What do you buy? I don't necessarily
> need to buy large quantities of things most of the time. However, once my
> husband moves back here I will be needing some things in large quantities.
> Amazing how much food one man can consume! Anyway...
>
> We didn't have time to browse every aisle like we wanted to. I saw super
> good prices on produce and cheese. And the bread was cheap. 12 pack sodas
> were more expensive than the sale price at most groceries. And this week, 2
> stores that I know of are giving out free stuff if you buy 3 of the 12 pack
> Coke products. We got the skinny cans at Albertson's for free and Vitamin
> water at Target. Target was also giving out chips if you bought the skinny
> cans but we didn't need the chips.
>
> Anyway... What sorts of things should I look for there? Thanks!

I get a few things at that store - their sugar and flour are often
better prices than the local grocery stores so if I run out between
sales that's where I go. Butter is also a good price. Their real
vanilla extract is usually priced better than Costco's version and I
like the flavor better as well.

They sell "nicer" toothpicks. Sometimes we use them for appetizers for
parties and that's the local place I can find them. They also have a
pretty good paper goods selection for parties as well. Inexpensive
tablecloths in a variety of colors, nicer plastic plates, inexpensive
trays etc to take to a party and not have to worry about breakage or if
it doesn't make it home. They also sell a variety of take out type
containers that have come in handy on occasion - like the year my son
used little chinese take out boxes to put candy in for this class
Valentines day party.

marcella