On a mobile device? Try our mobile site, optimized for faster browsing.
Loading...
Wegman's gives a whole new name to grocery stores.
This store has everything! I knew and cared very little for wine, but have since been educated and invited to free wine tastings at Wegmans. I am still partial to Soju (rice wine) but Wegmans also has a good selection of that as well!
The food by the ounce is pricey, so i generally avoid taht, BUT the best thing Wegmans has (for me) is the pre-prepared food to go (heat and eat). As a single person, it saves a huge amount of time and money to be able to have an individual meal that tastes (and is essentially) home made. I can finally get an instant meal that i can devour and enjoy that ends up only being a dollar or two more than the heat and eat frozen mac and cheese.
There are some items in wegmans that can be a bit pricey (truffles), but if you keep an eye out you can get good deals on certain types of foods and brands (i.e. certain types of meat are cheaper, like i believe their house brand chicken is a good deal but their beef is not as much of a deal).
Wegman's has a very good selection of international foods as well. Granted it's not as eclectic as walking into your hole in the wall indian/vietnamese/etc. local shop, BUT for a big grocery store i am very impressed! I love love love stuff like Pocky, and other random asian candies and wegmans has that and then some. Walk down giant's "international" isle and you will be dissapointed with el taco brands and salsa with melted kraft cheese. not very 'international' if you ask me.
When I came to VA for a house hunting trip in 2004, my realtor took me to Wegmans to grab some lunch. I was so impressed with the store that I told her I hoped we would find a house close to it.
Thank goodness I did, because I love the place.
Here's my opinion of the various sections:
Produce--awesome, even though it may be a little pricier than other markets.
Meats/Fish--excellent quality. Whenever I am preparing a special meal, I always make sure I pick something up from these guys.
Sub shop--I picked up a sub for a recent flight to Germany. Huge mistake since I was served a boat load of food in First Class, but the sandwich sure came in handy at the end of the flight and it wasn't even soggy. I had it stored in a cool space in the galley to keep it from spoiling.
Coffee Bar--yes. Just yes.
Wine selection--they have a great variety and they have my favorite Chardonnay from WA: 14 Hands. Only place in VA that I can find it.
Cheese counter--if you're a beginner to cheese like I am and want to learn more, you owe it to yourself to stop in and talk to these folks. I came in one night and got not one, but two employees who wanted to share everything they could with me about blue cheese. I ended up trying a British, French and CA made and loved the French one first, the CA one second, and the British one last. They spent at least 15 minutes with me giving me different pairing tips, explaining the differences in the cheese, etc. Highly recommend you stop by if you like cheese.
Beer selection--Where else am I going to get some of the Red Hook or Magic Hat box sets? Great selection from all ovah the world.
Housewares--I like that they have their own brand of cookware. I'm currently eyeing the stainless steel steaming baskets they make, designed to fit into their braising pan.
Prepared foods--you purchase food by it's weight. Great variety, no doubt, but def on the pricey side here. I'd rather get one of their subs.
All in all, I love how they have things portioned out and how they code things according to the lifestyle you are trying to live. Not too many stores do this much work to help their customers meet dietary goals, so I really applaud them for doing so.
Amazing store and I love going there. I just prefer to do so in the off hours when it's not so crowded, because it can be a -real- zoo.
People thought this was:
I'll one-up Collin W.'s review and say that I go a good hour to go here (and if I went by transit, it'd be double that). The subs, wing bar, deli (try the red hots, nuclear sausage, and landjager) and the entire bakery section make this place worth it alone. The seafood bar in the middle of the seafood section is unique as is the large sections for just about everything. Getting outside the specialty sections, their "regular" groceries are also above average. The fact that they sell Radiatore, which Giant dumped, and have store brand Fresca are other tiny little esoteric pluses that I like.
If Wegmans had a sustainable model for a urban store a la Harris Teeter, didn't make enemies in county government (see Arlington and until recently Montgomery Counties, and didn't enter secret noncompetes with far lesser chains, I'd give infinite stars to them! At least they stepped up the game of Giant and Safeway, made Shoppers improve, and de-roared Food Lion into Bloom; imagine where DC-area supermarkets would be without them.
Go there after 8 on a weekday and you'll live. Previous review still holds for all other times though.
I love Wegmans. Ask anyone I work with. I'm known as the guy who drives 30 minutes each way to go… Read more »
Their subs are huge and are the best you can get anywhere in town. Their 14" club sub on rye fed my husband and me the entire day.
People thought this was:
The BEST grocery store/cafe/market that I've ever been to.
Don't know what more I can add to the…
Read more »
This is how every grocery store should be. I used to live within walking distance and I went almost on a daily basis. Beyond what everyone else has swooned about, here are some other reasons why I love this Wegmans:
*Recently opened seafood bar- OMG for anyone who hates backwards VA tobacco laws and can't stand going to happy hour in a bar or restaurant because of the cigarette smoke, Wegmans seafood bar is the place for you! You can order fresh small plates, a glass of wine or beer, get great service, and not get assaulted by smoke! Yes, you have people with shopping carts passing by you, but just gaze into your significant other's eyes and you won't even notice.
*Pretzel rolls- do I really have to explain further? Just get yourself to the bakery and get one.
*Wine tasting- down in the basement they do wine tasting most days from 5-7PM. It's free. They switch the wines every week (usually there is a region of focus), and it's a great way to try pretty much every wine they sell. This is not like going to a wine tasting at a winery. The staff certainly don't know as much about the particular wines they're pouring compared to what you would find at a winery. But if you already have some basic wine knowledge this is a great chance to taste a lot of different wines. Sometimes they offer bread and cheese too.
*Pizza- not artisan, but good American style pizza. You can pick your own toppings and they make it up for you in 20 minutes.
*Samples- you don't know if you are going to like the $17 wedge of cheese you are contemplating buying? Just ask and they will cut off a piece and give you a sample. Same thing with the deli.
*Wegmans brand whole wheat pitas- can't live without them and I miss them dearly.
Now my word of caution. Many things in Wegmans are extremely overpriced. Among these are the fish, the meats, and the prepared foods. This is clearly how they make their money. I'm not saying everything won't be wonderful if you buy it, but you will pay more than in other not so nice grocery stores.
This is one place that I would give more than 5 stars if I could. It is a sparkling gem in the pit of despair that we know as Fairfax.
People thought this was:
I see a lot of people calling this the best store ever. My first thought is that people are easily impressed.
First of all, it's a grocery store. It's a nice grocery store, but just a store nonetheless. If I can get the same things at a store that is not mobbed by crowds and where everything is not overpriced--and I definitely can--then I prefer to do so. I also see a lot of reviewers going on about the produce selection. Again, all I can think is that they must not have been to Super H Mart, which is right down the street and has a larger selection for cheaper prices.
There are things I like about Wegman's. They have gorgeous steaks and delicious garlic bagels and pistachio muffins. But I would never do all of my shopping here, because, for me, the crowds (both inside the store and in the parking lot) are not worth it.
If you're into hordes of people and standing in long lines all so that you can say you got to go to the cafe and wine shop, then you'll love Wegman's. If you want to walk up and down aisles and gape at everything, then go here right along with every other person in Fairfax. But if you want to get what you need and get out, go to Giant, Bloom, Whole Foods, or H Mart.
People thought this was:
Swoon.
Oh Wegman's, I don't think a better grocery exists. Your wide aisles, incredible produce selection and low prices! I could spend days eating your freshly baked breads, walking up and down your extensive cleaning products aisle and weighing your fresh, organic local fruits and vegetables. The cheese lover in me couldn't handle your overwhelming selection of blue, brie and asiago. And, what's a girl to do with all that wine you sell and your incredible kosher meat selection? I could only retreat to your candy aisle and buy pounds of candy corn.
But Wegman's, it's your buffet area that has made me a true believer in mankind. Indian food, Chinese food, sandwiches on freshly baked subs, fresh sushi, pizza, and an adequately priced salad bar (a rarity these days). Maybe it was the succulent chunks of clams in your clam chowder or the thick icing on your cinnamon rolls, but who cares, I know I would eat every meal here if I could.
Hell, if given the chance I would move in.
People thought this was:
My former job used to be close to this store, so I became VERY spoiled and used buying lunch there a few days a week and stocking up on non-perishables during the less crowded midday hours.
There produce is amazing, and the selection is wonderful to the point of being almost overwhelming. The sushi and hot bars are fantastic, but the gem in the Wegman's crown has got to be their subway bar. The sandwiches are ginormus---even the little ones--which always gave me leftovers for dinner. Don't even get me started about their baked goods... and the wine selection. :-)
The only reason Wegman's has 4 stars instead of 5 is that it is a zoo on the weekends and after work. If you can get there during non peak hours however, it is more than worth the trip.
If not for the prices, this place would be heaven. Let me put it this way, if not for having lost a bid on that house, right now I'd be living 100 yards away from it. It's that good :)
Fuck you, I'm a fan of Wegman's! That's right, I'm a fan of a grocery store. Honestly, this is the single best grocery store I've EVER been to. It is like God himself came down and planned out exactly what a grocery store should be like.
The selection is 2nd to none. The prices are competitive (and sometimes lower) than the crappy chains in the area. Parking can be a bitch if you go at the "busy hours". There are multiple in-store eateries. The quality of the food is top notch. If you need a recipe for something the staff can usually give you some advice. Free samples are plentiful. The downstairs wine store is VERY nice.
Oh, and oddly enough this store has turned into a bit of a singles scene ... weird but fun to watch.
People thought this was:
When I visit my family in VA, there are a few go-to places that I absolutely must stop by before heading back to NYC:
Nordstroms, DSW shoe warehouse (more selection and less crazy crowds than NY), Noodles & Co., and WEGMAN'S.
Oh yes, Wegman's. Every time I pull into the huge parking lot I swear I hear the angels singing down from heaven.
I always equate this place to Whole Foods, but 100x better. The staff is all incredibly helpful and friendly, the food all looks fresh and delicious, the variety of brands and products is insane, and the best part-- it's just as cheap, if not cheaper, than your local grocery store. Take that, Whole Foods!
Their buffet section has excellent Asian and Indian food and the sushi bar is great as well. My favorite section, however, has got to be the baked goods department. Artfully decorated cakes, cookies, and pastries all perfectly lined up-- it's enough to drive me mad with glee. I bought a package of their award-winning brownies and seriously tore into them as soon as I got back into my car. And as I type this review, I'm digging into a pint of their peanut butter cup ice cream. Freakin delicious, I tell ya.
Wegman's, please listen to my plea and open a location in NYC! I promise we will welcome you with open arms!
People thought this was:
My gawd, have I been missing out. This. place. is. amazing. I have a confession: I went to my first Wegman's yesterday and my mind was appropriately blown.
Did you ever have a grade school project where the teacher asked you to design/draw your dream house? Well I did and I drew a bowling alley, water slide, roller rink (go 80s!) inside and had furniture made out of Cheetos (ok, so maybe it's *still* my dream house) BUT, Wegman's would be the grocery store I'd concoct if the modern day late 20s Amber was asked to design her dream grocery store.
All. that. meat. All. that. cheese. An in-house bar-seat only seafood dining-kiosk? And sushi bar? A tea shop? You sell foie gras? And, rabbit? AND there's a toy train steaming through the tracks above my head in the dairy section? Is Santa Claus hiding in here? Honestly, you name it, Wegman's has it. Although I was searching for an item I did not ask if they had, but could not find: spicy pickled green beans.
I'm very saddened there isn't a Wegman's in DC, but if Whole Foods is that crazy busy, I can only imagine how Wegman's would be. The place easily blows Whole Foods out of the water. It's an enlarged, better-selection and less-pretentious Whole Foods and I love it.
People thought this was:
4.75 stars.
The clam chowder, gorgeous fruits and veggies, brie-stuffed dates, and wine maps showing the regions in which different varietals are grown are enough to make me swoon. I just wish the parking lot wasn't always so crowded.
People thought this was:
I hate grocery shopping, just over the whole thing. But Wegman's isn't a grocery store, it's an experience. It's the Disney World of grocery stores. You could shop here for hours...
But I'd like to focus this review on what I feel is an overlooked aspect of Wegman's: the subs. They are simple and delicious - I think it is the freshly baked bread, the wheat roll is so good.
Anyway, everything about the store is terrific and I'm glad we NoVa residents finally have a Wegman's to call our own. The employees will even hold an umbrella over you and walk you to your car if it's raining and you forgot your umbrella - wow! The only thing is that at the store I used to go to in upstate New York, they had a working model train and robotic penguins in the frozen food section and I'm not sure if this Wegman's has that. But that is a minor nitpick, five stars!
I have loved this store since it's 3rd day in business back in early Feb '05, and I don't think I could love this grocery store more than I do. I have *never* had anything remotely resembling a bad experience and I have been there a LOT in its 4 1/2 years of existence at this location. I only occasionally eat out because I consider it time consuming and not only that, I work from home (usually) so given that I consume the vast majority of my meals at home, I naturally need to visit a grocery store a lot. 90% or more of my shopping is done at this Wegmans, Trader Joe's in Centreville and Costco, but Wegmans is my most frequently used place--I'm there 2-3 times per month.
I don't agree with the frequent assumption that Wegmans is all high end and expensive. The assumption, however wrong, is made because Wegmans has a lot of expensive high-end offerings, most of which competing grocery stores (Giant, Safeway, etc) don't compete with. I like that they have these options when I want luxury food. But Wegmans can be cheap, too, and that's not *only* when you buy Wegmans brand. Even other brands. Just have a look around and you'll see there are tons of options that aren't expensive.
I know the place well, so I usually don't need help finding things, but when I have needed help, my encounters with employees have never been anything less than helpful to me. I love the employees there.
To be sure, Wegmans doesn't have "everything," but they are close. There is a short list of products I prefer to buy elsewhere (Trader Joes' & Costco), but I emphasize the list is short.
I won't go in to details about all the nice features of the store since it's been done before, but I just wanted to argue against the premise that it's so expensive, and to simply say that it's been wonderful each and every time I have been. Seriously, 100% of the time, I've been happy and never had a complaint.
Botoom line is that Wegmans is my favorite place to shop for groceries, by far.
People thought this was:
PROS: i just love the atmosphere. this is NOT your ordinary supermarket. they have EVERYTHING. i was looking for mussels and clams at my local asian supermarket.. and they only had FROZEN ones. so instead, i went to Wegman's.. got fresh seafood. the food is always fresh and of the highest quality. they have delis, salad bars, asian food bars, fresh sushi made infront of u.. it's like you're in another country.
CONS: prices are sometimes a bit higher than other supermarkets.. but if you buy wegman's brand.. it's definitely cheapest around. parking lot is always packed. i recommend parking in the basement garage. but dont steal my spot!! it's against the wall!
People thought this was:
Don't hate me you guys. I really can't stand this place. I shopped there for a few months when I first moved out to Fairfax and sure, it has tons to offer but that place is a time suck. I don't think you can spend less than an hour in there and trying to steer your shopping cart around that store is like an overcrowded maze. I also don't feel like I'm saving any money at all. My grocery bill went down a lot when I started going back to Giant. If I want to pay a lot for food, I'll go to Whole Foods. At least I get good organic food for the price I'm paying.
With that being said, I do like their cafeteria-style offerings and will sometimes visit for lunch. Their bakery area looks delicious. Otherwise, I don't come here for groceries anymore.
People thought this was:
The BEST grocery store ever. The reviews say it all, really. Except the review by Anna. I do not understand how you are giving Wegmans 1 star based on some bad experiences you had with customers, not employees, inside the store. Sure, there are douches in Fairfax county. Don't blame Wegmans for them.
Anyway....
I went to school in upstate NY and as a college student, Wegmans fit the bill. You could get a healthy meal here for cheap. I was soooo excited when it came to the DC area, although this store is about 15 miles from my house (and you know how long that is in traffic). But, it's worth it. The prepared food is as good as the food in some of the over hyped restaurants in DC.
They have a great organic selection, but then they also have things like Kellogg's frosted flakes, Jiff peanut butter, and Wonder bread.
And they also have a HUGE candy section. The cheese section rocks. The cheese isn't as cheap as Trader Joes, but which place is really? The selection is immense, however. They also hand out free samples left and right. My kind of place.
People thought this was:
I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE Wegmans! It's clean and has tons of selection. I won't bore you with all the details that everyone already mentioned. For me, it's the simple things. I can get things like soymilk and cheerios (you know, everyday stuff) for the lowest price I've seen, if you buy in bulk (which we easily go through in a week). I think I even found some toiletry items for cheaper than other places, which is surprising considering it's a grocery store. You can choose a long or short push cart and the wheels on the carts don't stick! The garage parking is perfect for rainy days. Plus they have a decent wine selection area downstairs below the cafe. I told you I was simple.
Oh yeah, the choo-choo train is pretty charming.
Trust me, one trip and you'll be hooked!
People thought this was:
4th of July. Plans for grilling and making some special dishes.
Stopped in late afternoon. Place was packed. I guess everyone else was thinking the same thing?
Veggies were well stocked and the employees were running around replenishing the are
People thought this was:
Hey - here is a hot tip. Don't tell too many people or we will not be able to enjoy it...
If you are…
Read more »
So there is a regional battle as to which store is better: Wegmans or Whole Foods. Many of us who frequent Whole Foods were once loyal Wegmans shoppers. I give both 5 stars!
Wegmans certainly deserves loyal shoppers. If you are new to the area (or still shopping at Safeway for some reason) and are deciding where to go consider these factors.
For starters, by all means, go to both. Each is worth a visit.
The biggest difference is that Wegmans carries the big name brands (think Pepsi, Coke, Hershey's, Kellogs, Nabisco, etc.) Wegmans has a larger wine selection than Whole Foods. Interestingly, Wegmans is really three stores fused together - craft / prepared foods; big box super market and a dining area above the wine store. Wegmans has a nice small seafood bar. The parking lot at Wegmans is packed at peak times. Also, the store layout is 1/2 a very cool market-square and 1/2 Costco-style big box supermarket. Unfortunately, the specialty sandwiches and pizza are what you would find in any food court.
As a matter of principle, Whole Foods does not carry the big name brands. Whole Foods offers more organic and healthy choices. Whole Foods offers more and larger dining venues (Seafood, BBQ, Sushi, Wine and Cheese (sandwiches and salads) and an outstanding wine tasting room. And on a staff-to-staff match up, Whole Foods is superior on providing smart people who are results and relationship oriented. Whole Foods offers a better beer selection (and you can buy pints on draft for a little more than $3) You get healthier prepared foods. The parking is easy, as there is a wide and deep lot. The layout is fun. The seafood bar is in the seafood section and the BBQ bar in the butcher's section. The Wine and Cheese bar is next to the wine section. I also like brick oven pizza and craft sandwiches.
I admit that I am Whole Foods convert. From my personal experience, I have noticed over the past year, since I made the switch, that I drink much less soda and eat fresher and organic foods.
And finally (because this really bugs me) despite Whole Foods misplaced reputation of being for "rich people" (as some people have posted in their reviews) the prices are very competitive and in some cases Wegmans is more expensive. Granted, on average Whole Foods can be 25 cents to $1 more a pound on produce. But I will point out that Whole Foods does bring in a lot of locally grown and that costs the store more. And local produce can stay on the vine or branch longer, arrive fresher and more flavorful - which is a great reason to pay a little more.
Out of fairness, I am posting this on both store sites.
People thought this was:
Big fan. Huge fan. Of the Wegmans. I find the prices here to be much better than my local Safeway and Giant. I also find the organic options to be a much better value than Whole Foods.
I've done a lot of shopping here and my top picks from this Wegmans are:
- Sushi: fresh, delicious AND you can see the exact calorie count right on the signage for easy decisions/guilt
- Bulk items: so much cheaper than WF and their yogurt covered cranberries and pretzels? Ruh-diculous
- Salad bar: they have so many easy, fresh options and I love their black bean & corn salad
The only drawback I've experienced is trying to go on a Sunday afternoon. I drove around the parking lot (above and beneath) and couldn't find a spot to save my life. So I won't go again during peak post-church shopping hours.
People thought this was:
Wow, it was a sensory overload experience. I couldn't decide what I wanted and I wanted a little bit of everything. The cookie bar was especially awesome. Chocolate dipped macaroons and peanut butter cup. Are you salivating yet? They also have aged tenderloin which is something I don't see even in Wholefoods (only aged rib eye and NY strip). The selection of deli meat, sausages, and cheese was mind boggling. I only wish they have more fresh pork and chicken in the butcher counter instead in the vacuum packed pouches.
People thought this was:
This place is awesome! I wish I could get something of this caliber up in Ohio. At first, you think this place is total chaos! So many people, and the isles are not lined up in a military fashion like Wal-Mart or Krogers (an Ohio grocery food chain). But I loved the set up. Almost every ethnic food can be found here, from breads, fish, meats, vegetables, desserts and wines.....
They have different levels of eatery places as they have plenty of buffet style foods (vegan, Indian, Chinese, Breakfast....) which was not all that bad. They also had a coffee shop there as well.
I loved the Wine store at the lower level where prices were pretty darn good and 4-7 bucks cheaper then in Ohio for the same wines. You could get lost in here, but at the same everything seemed so in place. we all got special chicken meals (stuffed chicken) but giving the quick trip to see my mom and dad, didnt have time to feast on it. This is one place worth stopping by to see and shop for groceries and so much more.
Wegman can you please come to Ohio - our grocery stores SUCK!!!
People thought this was:
I am so grateful this is a bit of a drive to get to for me. Otherwise, I'd spend all my time here and all money too!
I took my in-laws here because they get excited to check out grocery stores. They both work for Kraft foods and deal with marketing and new products and all that jazz...so seeing how stores implement their products is pretty interesting to them. I like staring at food.
So we walk in and swarming in front of us is an army of customers. This place is packed. There is a whole section of prepared foods. Cupcakes to sandwiches, buffet lines of Chinese and Indian food, along with dine-in sushi stools, to bake at home meals all packaged by people employed by Wegman's and on site. They have a pretty extensive seafood, meat and cheese departments, and employees in the know on how to prepare what. They were shoving out samples of cheese while people were getting slices and chunks of it weighed out for purchase. The standard side of the store where you'll find you're everyday fare is also impressive. They have an abundant variety of just about everything you can imagine.
They also have a large dining section on a totally different floor than the grocery area for a quieter place to eat your ready made meals and also have a wine cellar with people pretty good about knowing which wine you're talking about when you give them a half name or taste or whatever.
They have plenty of parking space, and even a parking garage behind back. No...to some of you snobs out there (yes there are one or two of you on Yelp) this isn't a farmer's market. This isn't a hole in the wall....but God bless America and its ridiculously large and capitalistic juggernaut of a grocery store.
People thought this was:
One reason why I think living in Fairfax is great; Wegman's! This is the east coast version of the west coast Gelsons. They carry most of the organic brands, they have a pretty good selection of eurpean beer and an awesome wine cellar filled with wines from all parts of the world at affordable prices. And their cheese selection is very big as well (my husband's favorite part of the store). You could smell their cheese section a mile away and right next to the cheese shop is a little area where they have all types of olives. My daughter loves coming to the store and watching the mini train choo choo above our heads. Even their shopping carts are great, they also have garaged parking for those rainy days.
People tend to have a misconseption about this store, they tend to believe that it's more expensive than the general stores like Giant and Safeway. When infact I saw a special on the Today Show. They mentioned how Wegman actually carrys more of a variety at less of a price.
It's also a great place to stop and grab a bite to eat. They have a grand selection of foods from all over the world. You can order it and make it fresh for you, and they also have sushi chefs make fresh sushi to go. You can order anything from pizza and subs to ribs and thia food. They also have a wonderful area for you to sit, eat and enjoy your food.
And the icing on top; they have a fresh and delicious bakery...yummy! They make everything and anything you could think of in regards to pastries and bread. everything under one roof, very classy and super service with a smile!
People thought this was:
Adventures in combat grocery shopping. Sorry, but I am *not* one of Wegman's legion of fanatical groupies. I absolutely agree with the comments on the rude &/or clueless behavior of the shoppers at this store. To paraphrase Sartre: "Hell is other Wegman's shoppers." Unless you are on Valium, I strongly advise you to ONLY SHOP HERE ON WEEKNIGHTS AFTER 8PM. Otherwise you will be dealing with an idiotic, ruthless, me-first-at-all-costs mob and their equally idiotic, misbehaving spawn. Even the drivers headed to the store--in their minivans & SUVs, naturally--are rude and aggressive. Take the back way in, park on the fringes and walk.
Oh, and I had a short list, yet despite the store's massive size, they didn't have THREE items on it which can commonly be found at other local stores, even White Bread And Nearly Expired Milk (aka Giant). And what they do have is hard to find. Amy's frozen entrees were in three different locations; the first one I came across left me thinking they hardly carried any, let alone the ones I like. I stumbled across the other two by chance. I wanted a single-serving bottle of OJ. Is it with the half-gallon cartons of OJ? No. It's in the "quick-serve" cooler at the front of the store. I could go on... and on.
I sorely miss the Harris Teeter in Reston, and will be making the trip back there at least once a month. The only good thing I have to say about Wegman's is *some* of their prices are pretty good *some* of the time (if you use their shoppers' card), and I can get my prescriptions there cheaper without using my insurance than I can with my insurance at CVS. All in all, not a pleasant experience, certainly not one that merits the rapturous praise found here.
People thought this was:
OK..so this is probably a review of Wegmans' customers more than it is of Wegmans, but the two are inextricably linked.
Let me say up front that I am not new to the Wegmans phenomena. I went to graduate school in upstate NY and have been familiar with Wegmans for 15 years. I loved it then and I love it now. My husband grew up in upstate NY so he's had this super grocery store as part of his psyche FOREVER.
We live in Arlington and have very little occasion to go to Wegmans. Where this Wegmans is isn't even close to where our Fairfax friends live. Soooooo, we went out of our way to visit just because we were interested in how Wegmans was doing.
Here's what happened to us within the first 15 minutes we were on Wegmans property.
We drive to the underground parking lot, amazed at how full it is on top. As we first get into the lot, we see an open spot and quickly redirect because it's handicapped. So we move along. We race past before we realize that a car is in reverse about 5 spots away from the handicapped spot. My husband quickly reverses to position ourselves to park as the lady tries to back out of the spot. Lo and behold, the car in back of us won't let us reverse enough to get out of the way of the exiting car. My husband is motioning to the driver to our rear when the officious a$$hole comes up to my husband on the driver side and accusingly asks him, "You weren't going to back up into that handicapped spot, were you?" WTF? My husband angrily responds, "No $hithead, I was backing up to take this spot and it's none of your fuc%king business what I do. Pay attention to yourself!"
Wow, so some shmo decides he's the friggin' parking police and thinks he can give us crap because he makes a decision that he knows what's going on in our parking calculation. Thanks, mind reader.
But no, it gets better. We're in the cafe walking down an aisle when a lady makes a 360 turn with her cart and nearly rams into our 4 year old and doesn't even acknowledge that, had I not stopped her forward motion, she would have given Max his second concussion in 10 days. My husband loses it and really rips her a new one, demanding an apology while she's denying even coming close to Max. Now, this lady is short and my husband is 6 foot 4, so I'm pretty sure she's intimidated by him. Appalled by her, I just walk away with our son. Max asked me, "What is daddy doing?" I reply, he's having a loud conversation with that woman.
What is it with Fairfax people? Because, sad to say, these probably aren't DC, Arlington, or Alexandria people. Do they stay so long in their cars to commute that they have lost all sense of how to conduct themselves in a GROCERY STORE??!??
So this Wegmans is better than the ones I've seen in upstate NY, but the footprint is the same. If you're looking for the same small-town feel and hospitality among customers that you'd find in Syracuse or Fayetteville NY, you will be sadly disappointed. No, DC metro folks, you will have to deal with a Lord of the Flies attitude from those gracious people in Fairfax County.
Is it worth the drive from your place in DC or more Northern VA locale? I would say no. I was really looking forward to saying, "Skip Whole Foods, go to Wegmans," but today's experience instead, has me recommending that you SHOULD frequent your local grocer. The reality is that Wegmans brings out the worst in the people of Fairfax and it's not worth going there to save a few pennies on your sundries. Anything Wegmans can provide, the Whole Foods on 66 can do just as well and with less aggression.
People thought this was:
This is essentially the ideal grocery store.
Reasons you should shop here:
+Enormous store with a huge selection
+Nice sized wine collection in the basement
+Fantastic fresh food section with meat and bakery samples
+Great $/lb salad bar
+Lots of seating spread across 2 levels so you can enjoy a meal while looking out over the well decorated restaurant
+They have a bulk bin isle
+They have events including a book signing by Iron Chef Morimoto that I attended
+All of the employees are nice and helpful
+Gigantor parking lot
+Reasonable prices on everything except some prepared foods and fresh meats
When I lived next door I would come here for both groceries and to have a nice meal on their second level. It was always a good store to me... I miss it so much now that I've moved away...
People thought this was:
Wegman's is the greatest addition to the Northern Virginia transmetropolitan area since Lord Fairfax was born. There's nothing more I can conceivably think I'd want from a grocery store. Their premade food selection is ridiculous; their "market" food is as good as most carry out restaurants (the subs they make kick the shit out of Subway price, size, and taste wise), their selection of meats/poultry/bread/coldcuts is extensive, and the place is well designed to handle its role as a suburban people factory .
If I could, I would move into an apartment overtop of Wegman's and eat lunch there every single day. I would also ask it to marry me. She'd probably decline, because she's way better than me, but I would keep asking.
People thought this was:
Full disclosure here: I'm from Western NY, so grew up with Wegmans (lucky me - seriously - how does the rest of the country shop without it?) and talk to anyone from that part of the world and you'll always hear the same thing about Wegmans :)
However, when you leave NY state you TRULY appreciate how amazingly awesome Wegmans is. I live about three miles away and am here at least twice a week (was a big selling pt when we bought our condo and moved from Alexandria). The pizza is the best around and from the sub station, Danny's Favorite is a must-try. My favorite part about Fairfax Wegmans is the wine cellar (you can't sell wine in grocery stores in NY, so this addition is a HUGE plus for Wegs - thanks Virginia!). Sadly though, they don't carry many of the Finger Lakes wine I love from home (piss off, Virginia).
Everyone who has said this is correct - the place IS a ZOO on the weekends, but seriously - tough it out. Did you really want to go to Safeway? I didn't think so.
I want to dispel one myth - Wegmans is NOT expensive by NOVA standards. Its not nearly as expensive as Whole Foods, so don't let this keep you from going. I spend $50 at Safeway and don't even know what I bought. Your money will go far at Wegmans and if you're looking for a steal, their own brand of foods (in almost every category) is every bit as good as name-brand.
Enjoy - and you have Rochester, NY to thank for it :)
PS - to the person who started this thread - there's no apostrophe in Wegmans. Don't ask me why - there just isn't ;-)
PPS - If Mary Ellen Burris reads this, call me. PR for Wegmans is my dream job.
People thought this was:
Wegmans really puts every other grocery store to shame. I used to live walking distance from a Whole Foods and a Trader Joes, and 2 miles from a nice Giant, but would drive 20-30 minutes to Wegmans instead.
Everything is fresh, yummy, and nice. AND reasonably priced, unlike Whole Foods.
When I first moved to the DC area, my coworker from NY drove me by the Sterling Wegmans under construction just to get me excited for the 1st Wegmans in the metro area. At the time I thought she was crazy since it was "just a grocery store". Oh how I was wrong. I was willing to drive the 25 minutes to Sterling for Wegmans for a year or so to enjoy the amazing fare inside. I also had the misfortune of moving away from an apartment literally next door to the Fairfax Wegman's 2 months before it opened. Although on the bright side, I'm fairly sure I would have gained significant weight living next door to this veritable amusement park of food. They could sell tickets to this place if they wanted to.
You will not find a better, more complete seafood, butcher, deli, cheese, dessert, pre-made entree counter than what is all under the same roof. They have a gigantic olive bar. They have a gigantic cheese section. They have a gigantic beer selection. Everything they have is amazing.
For dining, try the crab cakes offered at lunch. A great value and very delicious. I've also heard great things about the small oyster bar they have in the seafood section. Wegmans is truly an experience not to be missed for any foodie.
People thought this was:
This is hands down my favorite grocery store. Everything you need, from the good old cheap grocery store brands to high end gourmet brands. My only complaint is with the hot food bar, its not "bad" persay, but its certainly not that good (and it is rather pricey).
Great matzo ball soup, great subs, good prices on most normal groceries too!
People thought this was:
Wegmans is definately the best grocery store around. They have everything you could ever want but finding that something may actually take you awhile. The store itself is massive so if you don't have a game plan going in - you may be there awhile. Word to the wise - go on off hours and try to avoid the weekends if you can. If you go on the weekends make sure you go before 10AM - after that you will just be one of the masses.
The dine-in area has a great Sushi bar that is open until 7:30 nightly. Make sure to go and say hello to "Pauli." I promise you won't be disappointed with the price or the company. Its a real show. :)
People thought this was:
I think over all its a great store. Great selection of both gourmet and regular grocery store choices. Good prepared foods. I live with in walking distance, so its easy to get to. I have a unhealthy addiction to their cannoli's... but they are cannoli's... so who can blame me.
My only gripe?
The other customers. Hitting that place for groceries around noon, or most anytime on the weekend... place seems like a magnet for the rub and obnoxious... kids running around, people ramming charts into each other...
By no mean's the store's fault, but still.
The saving grace?
They always have at least one bottle of Chimay left to ease my soul.
People thought this was:
OMG WEGMANS!!! I LOVE WEGMANS!
Okay, so I'm not sure what I could possibly say about Wegmans that hasn't already been said but I have to profess my love anyway. I come out from Vienna to the Fairfax one every weekend to do my shopping. Shop at Safeway, Giant? No Way. I have a friend that drives down from Arlington every weekend too. Wegmans is that good.
My two favorite things:
1. Their subs. The Denny's favorite with sub oil on wheat is the best sub I have ever had in my life. It's huge and cheap too. One quarter of the sub usually fills me up.
2. The produce. There are no other produce sections like Wegmans. It's definitely a one of a kind.
My two least favorite things:
1. Parking is insane unless you go after 9pm.
2. The organic section (while having more options) is a bit more expensive that what you can find at Trader Joe's.
People thought this was:
My roommate is obsessed because he went to school in Ithaca and when he told me about Wegmans, at first I didn't get it. But then...we drove out there...and I saw the light!
This place has everything! A great cheese counter, hot food bar, patisserie (love the fresh fruit tarts), large organics, fresh fruit...I could go on. What's even more amazing is that for a large grocery store, you almost get the feeling that you're in a large mom and pop shop---there are always employees in each section that are knowledgeable and willing to help. The butcher will talk to you about the different cuts of meat or help repackage portions so that you get exactly what you need. The fresh produce people will do the same and teach you to use the self serve weighing/tagging machine if you need a quick lesson (like I did). Finally, the patisserie also packages their cakes, tarts, sweets, in beautiful bakery boxes with a nice little gold seal.
I've never tried eating at the counters where they cook the fresh seafood for you, but I'd like to do that one day. I'm always too busy filling my cart with goodies. Oh and did I mention that the prices are pretty good too...think Balduccis quality at Giant/Trader Joes prices. Can't argue with that...
People thought this was:
MY FAVORITE GROCERY STORE OF ALL TIME!!!!
I actually just got back from there TONIGHT :) I've been going there for years, but it just keeps getting better and better. okay, so I typically do not grocery shop (I don't cook and I never really even ate in college) and i HATE grocery shopping...I get very depressed in grocery stores (i'm weird) but going into wegmans just makes me happy & I totally don'tmind being in there. Also the hours are soo much better!! they open late if not 24/7 and the place is amazing for any holiday (say 4th of july this past weekend)! Everything is fresh, sooo much variety, this is the one place I dont mind buying wegman's brand b/c I don't think of it as generic. The service is amazing and omg the prices are even BETTER than all the places you think are super cheap (shoppers, giant, safeway) and this isn't just from me noticing int eh store but it was shown in coupon magazines at B&N proving that wegman prices are much better than typical grocery stores!!!
People thought this was:
Burke, VA
Fairfax, VA
Category: Grocery
Falls Church, VA
Category: Bakeries
Manassas, VA
Category: Coffee & Tea
Fairfax, VA
Category: Bakeries
Various places I've gone for sushi (and a few I…
My local dry cleaner, watering hole, deli, cafe,…
I eat my spending money--it's true! Most of it…
I love when you walk into a place and all you see…
Here are some places that have warranted a five…
If you can spend a whole day wandering through a…
Nothing special, just a list of local restaurants,…
Retail stores where I can be like the other…
