Shoppers Say These Are the Best Grocery Stores in North Carolina

North Carolina boasts a diverse population and landscape, matched by a varied grocery scene. From national giants to beloved regional chains and local cooperatives, shoppers have plenty of choices. But which stores consistently win praise for quality, value, selection, and overall experience? Determining the “best” is subjective, of course. However, by looking at customer reviews, satisfaction surveys like the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI), and local reputation, certain favorites emerge across the Tar Heel State. Let’s explore some of the grocery stores frequently cited by North Carolina shoppers as top contenders for their weekly grocery runs, using insights current as of early 2025.

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Publix Super Markets: Service and Quality Shine

Though newer to some parts of North Carolina compared to legacy chains, Publix has rapidly gained a loyal following. Shoppers consistently praise its exceptional customer service, often described as friendly, helpful, and efficient. Stores are known for being clean, well-organized, and brightly lit. Publix emphasizes quality, particularly in its bakery, deli (famous for “Pub Subs”), and meat departments. While perhaps not always the absolute cheapest option, recent surveys (like the 2025 ACSI) show Publix tying for the top spot nationally in customer satisfaction, reflecting that many North Carolinians feel the higher quality, pleasant atmosphere, and top-tier service justify the price, making it a preferred destination. Publix continues its expansion in the state.

Harris Teeter: Regional Staple with Strong Loyalty

Harris Teeter, headquartered in North Carolina, holds deep roots and strong loyalty in the state. As a subsidiary of Kroger, it blends regional familiarity with the resources of a national chain. It ranks as the second-largest chain by location count in NC (after Food Lion). Shoppers appreciate its VIC loyalty program for discounts, “buy one get one free” (BOGO) deals, and fuel points. Harris Teeter stores often feature extensive selections, including strong prepared foods sections, wine choices, and fresh produce. While undergoing changes under Kroger ownership and not always topping satisfaction charts, it remains a go-to for many residents who value its long-standing presence, reliable quality, and familiar shopping experience.

Wegmans Food Markets: The Destination Grocery Experience

Wegmans entered the North Carolina market relatively recently (starting in the Raleigh/Triangle area) but arrived with immense hype and quickly built a devoted fanbase. Nationally, Wegmans consistently scores very high on customer satisfaction (ranking near the top in the 2025 ACSI). Known for its massive store size, incredible variety, and unparalleled prepared foods section (often resembling a high-end food court), Wegmans offers a unique “destination” shopping experience. Customers rave about the quality of store brands, fresh departments, and the sheer number of choices. While potentially overwhelming for some and with fewer locations than other chains, those seeking variety, quality, and a more engaging shopping trip often rank Wegmans at the top.

Lowes Foods: Local Focus and Community Feel

Another North Carolina-based chain, Lowe’s Foods, emphasizes a more local and community-focused approach. They often highlight North Carolina products and feature unique in-store experiences like the “Beer Den,” sausage-making stations (“SausageWorks”), or specialty cheese shops (“The Cakery”). This focus on unique offerings and local flavor differentiates them from larger national chains. While not always captured in broad national surveys, shoppers who prioritize supporting local businesses and enjoy a more interactive, less generic grocery environment often express strong loyalty to Lowes Foods, appreciating its community involvement and unique store concepts. They have a solid presence with over 60 locations in the state.

Aldi: Prioritizing Value and Efficiency

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For budget-conscious shoppers across North Carolina, Aldi is a major player and consistently performs well in national satisfaction surveys for its value proposition (scoring well in the 2025 ACSI). Its no-frills model focuses on efficiency and private-label products to offer significantly lower prices on staple goods. Customers appreciate the savings achieved through practices like cart rentals (refunded upon return) and bringing their own bags. While selection is more limited than in traditional supermarkets and lacks extensive national brands, Aldi delivers excellent value for basic groceries, produce, and weekly “Aldi Finds” specials. Its rapid growth, with nearly 100 locations in NC, reflects strong consumer demand for affordable alternatives, especially amid inflation concerns.

Trader Joe’s: Unique Products and Fun Atmosphere

Trader Joe’s brings its quirky charm and unique private-label products to several North Carolina locations. Nationally, it tied with Publix for the top spot in the 2025 ACSI customer satisfaction rankings. Shoppers love discovering its constantly changing selection of snacks, frozen items, international foods, and affordable wines (where permitted). The store cultivates a fun, friendly atmosphere with its nautical theme and helpful “Crew Members.” While not a full-service supermarket (lacking a butcher or extensive deli), it excels in offering interesting, high-quality specialty items at competitive prices, making it a favorite for specific finds and enjoyable shopping trips.

Diverse Choices for Tar Heel Shoppers

North Carolina shoppers are fortunate to have a wide array of highly-regarded grocery options catering to different priorities. Publix and Trader Joe’s lead in overall satisfaction nationally, with Publix known for service and Trader Joe’s for unique value. Harris Teeter maintains regional loyalty and broad reach. Wegmans offers an unparalleled destination experience where available. Lowes Foods champions local flavor and community connection. Aldi provides unbeatable value for budget shoppers. The “best” store ultimately depends on individual needs – whether prioritizing service, selection, price, unique products, or local connection – but North Carolina offers strong contenders across the spectrum.

Which grocery store gets your vote as the best in North Carolina, and why? What factors are most important to you when choosing where to shop? Share your favorites below!

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