I'm curious how many of you regularly shop at a small(er)/non-chain
grocery store for "staple" food items?

By small, how about we say this means the grocery business only has
locations in your city/town. (so no regional chains)

Could you also mention where in the world you live?

Alas, I am stuck with chain stores here in Las Vegas, NV. About 2
decades ago when I lived in Davis Sq, Somerville, MA there was a
produce shop and a butcher shop just a few blocks away. The produce
shop was slightly more expensive than the chains but the quality was
also better. The owner often ran the register and knew his regulars.

The butcher shop was actually cheaper than the chains, the quality
about the same and the variety better. I'm not sure if the owner was
onsite.

I miss them both.

Jay