Kroger

Kroger is the best grocery store ever solely because they are pretty much the only Chicagoland grocer that doubles coupons. (Let me know if you have heard of any others!) They have strict item limits but last time I asked about it, the cashier didn't know the policy. The policy is that you can only have 4 of the same items --- so don't try to get all extreme couponer on them with a cart full of 300 ramen noodles -- and they only double up to $1.00.

They have a pretty good selection and I've noticed there is always at least 1 employee  restocking at all times, which is good because my pet peeve is trying to find something and being confronted with an empty spot where the product is supposed to be. The cashiers and workers are all really friendly too and won't try to avoid your eye contact as you walk by (my other retail pet peeve.) The store is also very organized and it's easy to find everything on the list.

If I could only go to one grocery store for the rest of my life, it would be Kroger.

I...love...Kroger!
Ha!
Being a Chicago transplant (and assuming Krogers only existed where you would also find a Piggly Wiggly) Kroger seemed quite foreign to me in my new stomping grounds 4 years ago but I've learned when to go and how to navigate.
Here's some tips, and reasons why I love it so;
1. Decent size (and separate) organic/vegetairan/eco friendly section. They don't have these things thrown in here and there, it's all in its' own little grocery store of its own. The section isn't large, but you can find just about anything you really need (even Tahini!) and it's at a better cost than the local health food store for when I'm on a budget.
2. SHOP SUNDAYS! On Sundays, late morning, the magical little manager helpers run around with their bright orange "Manager's Special" stickers and start drastically reducing $$ on my favorite grocery store finds...fresh produce, already prepared deli trays, seafood, meats...and all with plenty of shelf life left (none of that "Sell by TODAY!" crap)
3. Tons of clearance, all in one area and all marked to sell...it's fun to sift through when I have a few extra minutes.
4. Redbox
5. CLEAN!!
6. Friendly staff...honestly, I can't remember one incident of rudeness, and saying that out here means a whole heck of a lot.
Oh and 7 can be the gas station that is located in the parking lot where you can rack up points in the grocery store to get $ off/gallon (I've got as much as $.30 off/gallon!) The points do expire and DON'T roll over so watch out.

I have been here a few times and the store is spotless. But what impressed me the most were the employees. Everyone that I encountered said hello and have a nice day with a smile. Really? How Stepford Wifeish. But it made my shopping experience that much more pleasent. There prices are on par with the bigger chains. So why not shop where you are appreciated. Aces the the store manager of this location for keeping their people happy.