Arriving in Canada, one quickly learns that choosing a grocery store is less about where to buy bread and more a test of wits, patience, and, occasionally, upper-arm strength for those trolley-laden bulk shops. For newcomers, it’s not simply a question of price but of decoding the mysteries of each grocery chain—the unsung adventure of settling in.
The key players in this supermarket drama are No Frills, Metro, and Walmart, each vying for the loyalty of shoppers both seasoned and freshly arrived. The perspective here is that of a new Canadian, recently landed in Toronto by way of Ireland, but with an eye always tuned to what would suit the good folk of Barrie. The quest isn’t just for groceries; it’s for a sense of belonging, a routine that feels like home.
Shopping for the first time in April 2024, the newcomer’s criteria are straightforward: the quality of produce, the range of products (because who doesn’t need a surprise noodle or two?), the ease of getting around the aisles, and, of course, how bruised the bank account is at the checkout. No Frills earns raves for its consistently fresh fruit and veg and the miraculous No Name brand—where 900 grams of spaghetti can cost less than a TTC ride. The sticker reward system is a stroke of genius; where else could one trade points for wine glasses or, if lucky, a coveted wok?
Metro comes in a close second, mostly for its meat that would impress even the most discerning BBQ host, though it demands a heftier wallet. Newcomers quickly notice that quality sometimes means paying more, especially when entertaining or aiming for the perfect steak. Meanwhile, Walmart tempts with its sheer scale and unexpected finds—one goes in for groceries and, somehow, leaves with Gaelic football gloves. The trek to the nearest location might be a slog, but the bargains and spontaneous buys almost make up for it.
For those who’ve recently arrived, or even locals looking for a fresh perspective, navigating these stores is as much about adapting as it is about shopping. Every trolley pushed is one step closer to feeling at home, and every sticker reward brings a small, joyful victory in the Canadian grocery game. After all, in a land known for its diversity, surely the true adventure is found somewhere between the aisles of discount pasta and the shining pizzerias of Loblaws.
References:
I ranked Canada’s biggest grocery stores as a newcomer and my top 3 will shock you
