For quite some time now, I've been faced with the same dilemma as many other savvy, healthy shoppers: Trader Joe's or Whole Foods. It may sound petty, but it's quite the conundrum.
For starters, they're both great locations. They have healthy and unique food, produce, and very different atmospheres. So how do you compare? Let's look at a few categories, shall we?
Price Point: Hands down, Trader Joe's is cheaper. It has a bounty of cheaper wine, cheaper vegan and gluten free options, cheaper regular options like PB and pasta. It also has cheaper produce, even the organic produce.
Variety: Whole Foods. Is it any wonder that Whole Foods would be leaps and bounds better in this category? It's far more expansive. It pulls from greater wholesalers. It has heavier food traffic, and therefore has greater options. Trader Joe's might have cheaper options, but if there is something specific that you need, Whole Foods always wins.
Friendliness: I'd almost vote TJ's. Everyone there seems to really love their job.
"To Go" options: Whole Foods. Duh. 'Nuff said. Have you seen their buffet area and food bars???
Availability: It's almost a toss up. It depends on where you are. Suburbs have greater access to Whole Foods, but in the Chi, it seems to be rather evenly split.
Wine: Price? TJ's. Selection? Whole Foods.
Vegan: Definitely Whole Foods.
Gluten Free: Again, Whole Foods.
So, there you have it. Which one's better? No idea, but I'd love to know. I'm still torn. Maybe after a bunch more shopping, I'll have an answer for you.
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