Sobeys at CityPlace open. Our first thoughts

So we went grocery shopping at the new Sobeys at Spadina and Fort York. (Yes, even neighbourhood blogs need to shop for food, it's what fuels our volunteer efforts to bring you news about QQ).

There's been a lot of interest in this location since we first reported about it back in January. CityPlace is dying for a place to buy more than just what Rabba provides for. And those without cars, there aren't much choices.

Here's our first take of the shopping experience.



As we entered, we instantly were wowed by the sheer size of this one compared to our other Sobeys at York Street. The Fort York location is definately bigger. There's a wine store near the entrance (not wine rack) and we saw that they had dedicated quite a lot of space to ready-to-eat meals and sides. Maybe that's what us urban folk need: people to cook for us.

Produce: Took us awhile to navigate the area, but they have all the usuals, and in plentiful supply. Produce was in decent shape, fruit not over ripe and plenty of choice. We noticed a lot of 'exotic' fruit and veg were available, like plantain and dragonfruit. Also a large amount of space for veggies typically used in Asian cooking, not surprising considering the clientelle.

Bakery: A little more selection than in the York St. Sobeys, and a few buns and pastries not offered there. We like the mix of packaged, 'freshly baked' and loaves from places like Ace Bakery.

Prepared foods: They have a vibrant sushi making station at one of the entrances (we're interested to see how that works out.) The length of an entire aisle is dedicated to salads, entree like items (like panko crusted chicken)_and they were carving some sort of roast pork. Food looked okay and lots of people were eyeing the food.

Seafood/Meat: Impressed by the selection of beef, pork and chicken, with different cuts (from grilling steaks to formed hambuger). The seafood is a little sad in comparison, a big chest of frozen seafood but some fresh.

Aisles: Pasta aisle is quite stacked, and the others have the usual stuff, but in pretty good supply. A few sections again targetting Chinese clientele. Definately well stocked right now.

Frozen food: Yep, plenty. Nuff said.

Customer service: People are a little too friendly, and we were accosted by three wandering employees looking to sign up people to Club Sobeys. Okay, we were lured in by the promise of Aeroplan points. The cashier stations also included, at least on Saturday, baggers, so that's pretty nice.

Okay, it's a grocery store. Plain and simple. A pretty good one and if it gets the business we hope it gets, the produce and meat departmnet should showcase good quality groceries.

What did you guys think? Like it, love it?