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Buffalo Whole Food & Grain Company
Categories: Food Specialty Food Fruits & Veggies Food Specialty Food Health Markets Fruits & Veggies, Health Markets [Edit]
598 Castro St(between 18th St & 19th St)
San Francisco, CA 94114
Neighborhood: Castro
(415) 626-7038
- Hours:
Mon-Sun 9 am - 10 pm
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
48 reviews for Buffalo Whole Food & Grain Company
Review Highlights
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"and the produce is always delicious and fresh." In 17 reviews -
"...that carries some great vitamins, supplements and food." In 10 reviews -
"great selection of heirloom tomatoes." In 3 reviews
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48 reviews in English
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Review from Jessica T.
San Francisco, CA
Updated - 10/5/2011
I love a place that remembers my name.
It reveals so much about the character of the place.
Buffalo Whole Foods and Grain Company still continues to be a darling and well stocked health food spot- full of a variety of all sorts of wondrous goods. From gluten free muffins and pasta to fresh fruit, and local hummus - it's well worth checking out, especially considering their later hours.
Trust.Listed in: Where to get groceries
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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5/17/2011
After yoga, I love stopping into Buffalo Whole Food & Grain Co and being surrounded by organic… Read more »
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Review from John S.
San Francisco, CA
9/30/2011
Overpriced. Rude staff. Minimum purchase requirement when using a debit card which is illegal. This place is bad business. The only thing they care about is taking your money. My advice, walk two blocks to Mollie Stone which has a much better selection, nicer staff, and treats its customers with respect.
People on here that gave more than 2 stars are more than likely heavy pot smokers who have no concept of value and good service. You are all so used to being ripped off, they actually have you trained to like it! I can't wait until this place goes under. -
Review from SF M.
San Francisco, CA
3/7/2012
Clearly the regulars love this place for some bizarre reason.. i echo the reviews of those who've commented about rude staff and weak selection.. I can personally vouch for that. Why shop at this dump when there's a Mollie Stones around the corner?? Mollie Stones is family owned and knows how to operate a grocery store. If you're going to do it, then DO IT. Great fresh food, produce, amazing bakery, incredible sandwiches, an abundance of local products... This place is a wannabe F'n hole that blights the corner of 19th & Castro! Then again who cares? there are more important things like world peace right? ; )
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Review from Jon T.
8/19/2011 2 Check-ins Here
I walk by here everyday and their sidewalk selection of fresh fruit always catches my eye. One day I decided I'd pick-up some strawberries and was definitely not disappointed. They were at that perfect stage of being just ripe and sweet enough. And the price was very reasonable.
Once inside the store, I was pretty impressed by their variety and selection, especially considering it's a relatively small space. As a vegan, I definitely appreciate the generous selection of fake meats and sweets. The prices for the fake meats were a little on the high-side, but I imagine that stuff must have a relatively higher wholesale price when not buying in the huge quantities trader joes or whole foods engages in.
I haven't investigated the vitamin wall yet but it is HUGE. I don't see how you couldn't find pretty much anything you need in that department. I also haven't had any of the local made breads other yelpers have mentioned but that will probably be next on my list.
Nice employees, good foods - great to have in the neighborhood. -
Review from Ravena F.
11/3/2010
This shop is as dynamic and high quality as the tiny green grapes I just bought from here are sweet and perfectly juicy.
What I mean to say is that they seem to stock only the highest quality versions of all of their selections. The few complaints about this store appear to be the pricing, but you have to keep in mind the following:
- this is a small corner store in the Castro
- the quality is really tremendously impressive
- veggies and fruits must be regularly combed over because I never go home with near rotten or already spoiled produce
- the manager/owner? is insanely helpful - going out of his way on a recent visit to let me know I didn't have to buy the whole bag of grapes just because they happened to be all in 1 bag. (I did buy them all because they're those yummy tiny green grapes that are so very sweet this time of year.) He also offered to locate a homeopathic remedy I'm looking for and "have it in the store with in a day or so." That's some serious corner-shop helpfulness and I don't even live anywhere near this corner anymore!
Organics, homeopathics, vegan and other specialty diet foods . . . this is a beautiful version of the modern corner shop. Now if only I can get one of these near my house in Daly City . . .Listed in: Wasabi Peas
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Review from Elizabeth K.
San Francisco, CA
7/25/2011
Great hours.
Super friendly and helpful staff.
Competitive prices.
Fabulous gluten-free section.
All organic produce.
What else do you need? -
Review from Susan S.
Castro, San Francisco, CA
Updated - 3/31/2011
Yes, Buffalo changed ownership in 2010... but things have only gotten better.
Mollie Stone's is great for giant things of soda, water, toilet paper, chips, and $0.99 cupcakes, but if you want the freshest real food in the Castro, this is it.
What I love about this store is that the people who work here aren't just 'clerks' -- they are true grocers and specialists in what they offer. The produce guys are vegetable fanatics and can tell you where every.single.thing. in the store came from (because they have extensive phone conversations with farmers and producers each week -- I know because I've eavesdropped), and the vitamins specialist knows exactly what to recommend, and why.
Everything is extremely fresh and high-quality, and the experience is personal. It's not a chain, and there is no 'chain grocery smell' to it (remember Delano's???).
Anyway, love this place!!1 Previous Review: Show all »
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8/29/2008
Buffalo does an incredible job as a your little corner grocery. It's expensive for them to operate… Read more »
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Review from Cynthia C.
Alameda, CA
9/27/2011
Fresh reasonably priced organic produce. Really warm service. The veggies are exceptionally beautiful here.
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Review from Renae H.
6/9/2008
Their produce seduced me right there on the sidewalk in the middle of Castro Street. How embarrassing! Apparently they have a connection in the world of heirloom tomatoes (one of my greatest weaknesses), they are the best that I've had so far this season.
The produce section is small (it is a small store after all) but it is beautiful. I would imagine that it would be a little too expensive to do all your shopping there, but the fresh fruits and veggies are more than worth it.Listed in: I'm So Useful
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Review from John S.
San Francisco, CA
5/31/2008
Buffalo is a cool little market that I wish I lived closer to. Actually, I don't wish I lived closer to it, because that would mean I lived in the Castro, and I don't want to live in the Castro. It's too loud and expensive and generally not my style. So I guess I wish Buffalo was a little bit closer to where I live.
As a corner store, it's really too expensive. As a specialty market, it's still too expensive, but it's laid out really nicely, and all the times I've been here, the people working have been very helpful. -
Review from Teddy d.
San Francisco, CA
7/17/2006
Great small whole foods store in the Castro and get this ....
Discount #1 spend $50.00 and you get 10% off on your purchase
Discount #2 get 10% off on supplements by just flashing your GYM membership card
Discount #3.... for people who are HIV positive....they give 20% off ...
Now that is good business in the neighborhood.... -
Review from Joe R.
San Francisco, CA
12/17/2007
I like this place for healthy and yummy eats. They have great little sales and you can grab a quick lunch out of the foods they have.
For vitamins and suppliments its has a great variety.
The central location is what makes this a great place to add those much needed healthy food choices to your pantry.Listed in: My Neighborhood, Born to Shop
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Review from Anna F.
San Francisco, CA
10/15/2011
I was in a bad mood when I went into Buffalo Whole Food & Grain Company for some milk one recent, rainy Monday night. The man working there was so pleasant, and the atmosphere in general so warm, that I left feeling a lot more cheerful (in spite of the relatively high prices; I guess nobody's perfect). And I'm from Buffalo, so the name just feels right.
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Review from Jean K.
11/27/2006
This is a great local grocery store! The people who work here are very nice. Once, we didn't have any cash so wanted to pay for milk using the debit card, only to find that you need to spend $5. But no problem! They said they would write us and IOU and we could pay them next time.
We almost always get our milk and butter here. Prices are better than Safeway and Bi-Rite for the same product.
Bike Parking: designated bike racks along Castro St. but none really close, I usually chain to the signpost around the corner on 19th St. -
Review from Aaron G.
San Francisco, CA
12/20/2005
Buffalo is precisely what you want from your corner health food, I'm sorry -- Whole Food -- store. Rob, the owner, plus the cast of characters that work there, are the nicest people you'll meet in my hood.
Having lived in Europe for years, I'm used to doing the daily shopping --buy just a bit for what you need now...there will always be more tomorrow. I do this at Buffalo and it is divine. Somehow they always have precisely what I need, and when they don't, it's ordered and there faster than you can imagine.
The produce is all organic, so like any other organic produce, check carefully -- it can expire quickly on you.
A huge positive: everyone there is EXTREMELY knowledgeable about herbal supplements and they have a huge section devoted for this. That weird foot itch? Got it. The flu? No problem. Crazy Stalker? That's a special order, but I bet Rob could do it.Listed in: My Neighborhood
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Review from Sahara G.
San Francisco, CA
6/6/2009
Well, it'll do in a pinch. I must complain that I've seen things still for sale which were past their expiration date, and I've seen produce which should have been chucked or replaced 2 days ago.
Good selection of supplements and if you catch them in the right mood they are very helpful, which is very good, and which gets them that 2nd star. They do stock what they can in a small space, again this is good.
I don't like that most of their clerks at the counter are about as warm and fuzzy as cement. This isn't a new thing, it's been like this forever. -
Review from Earline A.
San Francisco, CA
9/11/2010
I don't know why I haven't reviewed Buffalo sooner. They're in my neighborhood, they have a terrific selection of stuff, their prices are surprisingly reasonable, they're nice, and I can support a small business and local producers alike by shopping there.
This morning, after a comically failed attempt to go to the Allemany farmer's market, I came home and walked over to Buffalo. They had EXACTLY what I wanted--Two Dog Farm dry-farmed tomatoes as well as lovely heirloom tomatoes ($3.99/lb. each), gorgeous if not-quiiiiite ripe organic peaches and nectarines (put 'em in a paper bag and they'll be ripe in a day or two) for $2.99/lb, Applewood Farm bacon, real (as in no gum or other crap) cream cheese, and bagels from my beloved House of Bagels.
Thank you, Buffalo Whole Food & Grain Company. I'll be back again and again and again. -
Review from Maria C.
8/20/2009
Having clean food and great produce in a convenience store location is a treat. Yeah, some prices might be higher, but if I had to drive all the way to any other store with that quality of food when all I want is a few bananas and some tofu, for example, there would be the waste of time, gas, etc., so it all works out.
I've never found the folks that work there to be unfriendly or cold, but normally pretty chatty and friendly. Or just mellow. -
Review from Tom K.
San Francisco, CA
Updated - 1/2/2011
The new ownership is going to run this business into the ground. I went in for milk on 12/31 and was disappointed to find milk for sale that expired on 12/27... Hoping that your shoppers won't notice the expiry date so that you can maintain profit is not a way to build a business. I will go to 7-11 for non-expired milk before coming here again... It ruins the overall experience and perception of everything in this store...not a good strategy if Trader Joe's is moving right around the corner in the old Cala Foods location....
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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12/6/2007
OK... I love this store. I love just browsing here. Makes me feel like I'm at the local… Read more »
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Review from Nan L.
San Francisco, CA
Updated - 10/25/2011
The last store to know a great deal about supplements may be this store. Excellent staff, excellent vibe, produce is fresh and has a great energy. Quality quality quality.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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1/22/2009
Its not all about price, folks. Sometimes it's about supporting your local community whole foods… Read more »
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Review from Geno B.
San Francisco, CA
11/8/2010
It's very convenient to have this place so close to my apartment, but I'm always disappointed when I visit. The produce is not the best quality, and a lot of the things on the shelf are dusty! I've also seen products that are expired still sitting up there, which isn't the best sign. The people behind the counter are friendly, though.
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Review from Jennifer B.
Seattle, WA
1/2/2011 1 Check-in Here
A nice, little corner grocery store with really nice cashiers. Lots of organic products.
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Review from urban r.
San Francisco, CA
12/2/2010
unfortunately, it was sad to hear that the store was quietly sold in June of 2010.
aside from the new owners who are slowly turning the store into something different, the products still remain the same, but for how much longer, one only speculates.
i was first introduced to dry farm tomatoes here a couple years ago and still go back here to purchase them. the selection of fruits and vegetables has always been quite small, sitting outside on the sidewalk in their wicker baskets awaiting to be picked up and taken home. sometimes, they'll go sour before anyone in the store notices.
they have an amazing vitamin section, one wall of the store is dedicated to it. quite a great selection for the size of the store. i do not know if they do this with the new owners, but just like Rainbow, they offer discounts to those who purchase a variety of vitamins totaling over $100.
Buffalo does carry things like Kombucha, infamous Stonehenge scones, Acme Bread Co., a nice selection of vegan friendly sweets and delights, a small bulk section no longer exists I believe, a new drink/food freezer/refrigerator has taken its place. which is sad, but they never offered anything too exciting except for organic popcorn.
it is still a shop that seems run by it's great and friendly employees. mr. smith is the best and i hope he sticks around. however, i have heard grumblings about the new ownership who do not know the customer base or the neighborhood which is quite a disappointment. sigh. -
Review from Leo J.
San Francisco, CA
1/19/2009
There are so few organic and health food stores in the Castro. Thus, I am stuck with this store all too often. Selection is quite limited. Plainly, the goods are wildly overpriced and the people are consistently unfriendly. Its not unusual to find blueberries at other stores for less than half of what this store charges. The woman with the curly hair who regularly works there is fake, awkward. A small neighborhood place should be friendly to locals and this is absolutely not that store. If you're a Castro resident, I'd suggest any other health food store in nearby neighborhoods.
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Review from Linda R.
San Francisco, CA
1/14/2011
Man, do I LUV this little Castro institution! Super produce and the sweetest, most knowledgeable staff around! I have gone in the foulest mood and always come out smilin'. You really feel like family when you shop here!
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Review from Ryan C.
1/6/2009
The guy here was so friendly and nice. I bought three kinds of organic pears at a great price (less than $2 a pound) and finished all 3 by the time we got back to market. An interesting selection and amazing produce.
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Review from Sarah S.
West Hollywood, CA
5/8/2008 1 Check-in Here
I have a love/hate relationship with Buffalo. They have a really great selection of vitamins & supplements, but look at the price tag before you buy. It's not unusual for one bag to end up costing around $70. Other than that, their excellent selection, service and convenience to my home make up for it, so of course, I keep going back.
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Review from Nate R.
San Francisco, CA
11/20/2008
What a great place to be kitty corner to. Kind staff, nice selection of good food. A little pricey here and there, but at the same time they have great sale deals. $1.59 for a box of Annie's Mac? Yes please. Oh, Newman O's too? Sounds good. Really solid little market.
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Review from n s.
San Francisco, CA
3/27/2007
It's a little pricey but the staff is super friendly and the owner treats the staff and patrons well. There are some occasional good deals like bulk granola, etc etc... and it's always great to support a small business with great products...
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Review from Pug P.
San Francisco, CA
10/1/2007
I shop in here weekly for some pirates booty and skim milk. Fresh organic veggies and fruits. Always fresh and tasty.
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Review from Mickey D.
San Francisco, CA
Updated - 3/17/2009
Great spot for fresh organic fruits and veggies and a lot of other groceries at decent prices. And the staff is always friendly and helpful.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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3/22/2007
So this is the closet place to my in-laws' house but it is also the friendliest and most healthy… Read more »
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Review from Wind T.
Venice, CA
11/20/2009
Buffalo, j'adore you. I don't get here too often being a So Cal-er, but any time I'm in the Bay to see the bestie we without fail make a trip or two here. Great, in-season, local and reasonably-priced produce. For it's small size it packs a big punch in terms of products and grocery items offered, Lots of vitamins and herbal supplements as well as beauty supplies.
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Review from Ice Cream Truck I.
San Francisco, CA
2/21/2009
Ridiculously cramped, extremely limited selection, and insanely over-priced.
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Review from Victoria K.
Oceanside, CA
10/5/2006
After a number of the yoga teachers at the studio I work at nearby mentioning this place, I knew it was time to check it out. Though small and not a place to go to for ALL your grocery needs, it is a great corner shop to stop in and get a snack or health-friendly basics. The folks that work here are friendly and more than willing to help. Stopping in here before I go to work makes the day that much better.
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Review from Kate R.
San Francisco, CA
4/7/2009
I work nearby, and find myself stopping in here daily for a snack, meal, or just some light grocery shopping. It's a convenient location, and they stock some great items (like rami's hummus and the vegan soups, for example). The staff is always friendly (especially James and Kevin!) and the produce is always delicious and fresh.
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Review from Aaron W.
2/19/2010 78 Check-ins Here
I love this place but they don't have everything I need because it is so small. Expect it to be pricey, it is a corner store and an organic one. Everything I have gotten is quality and they are VERY nice.
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Review from Jude F.
San Francisco, CA
5/22/2007
An excellent local grocery store. Good selection, helpful and friendly staff -- everyone I've ever dealt with at Buffalo has acted as though they were glad to see me, and that checking out my groceries was a kinda fun thing to do. It's like a smaller Bi-Rite, but less crowded so that you can actually swing your basket around without accidently smacking someone. Like Aaron G., I do "daily shopping" at Buffalo, and I've decided I'm a convert. They turned me on to Sconehenge scones, too, and for that I'll be forever grateful. The only thing that would improve it is a deli, but unfortunately there's just no room.
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Review from Meredith G.
San Francisco, CA
6/17/2008
Best neighborhood corner grocery store. Nice produce, friendly staff, excellent selection of homeopathic and nutrition supplements (and they give discounts to regular customers).
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Review from Cristian M.
San Francisco, CA
1/24/2009
I really like this place for the selection, and quality of products. The prices are standard for S.F. and specialty items in particular. The people are helpful and well-informed and it's never been crazy crowded where I wanna shoot someone.
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Review from Maggie M.
San Francisco, CA
8/26/2009
Staff is warm and knowledgeable, selection is great! I'm biased as I have been a customer since they were on Hyde Street.
