7 Best Places to Buy Food That Aren't a Grocery Store

Grocery shopping is an errand that has become quite polarizing: Some people relish the experience of wandering aimlessly down aisles to fill shopping carts with products, both tried-and-true and new to the market. Others simply dread it, especially with increased gas prices that make it an extra-pricey trip. But with so many non-grocery stores now carrying food, it may actually make more sense to tackle two tasks at once and pick up your favorite eats from places that, quite literally, have it all.

We’ve rounded up seven national retailers that also happen to sell grocery items, many of which are imported from international destinations in small batches. Whether you're in the market for giftable baskets or a super special coffee bean, these are the best places to buy groceries that aren't the grocery store.

Whether you’re searching for a dry pasta kit or a box of imported caramels, HomeGoods is a one-stop-shop for any type of specialty food item. These obviously make wonderful last-minute gifts without having to pay an arm and a leg, but are also great for a little inspiration to resurrect weekday meals. If you also leave with an adorable throw pillow or seven, don’t blame us — it’s simply the HomeGoods way. Pro tip: Unsurprisingly, many of HomeGoods’ limited specialty food items fly off the shelves. Check with a store manager to find out when the store receives the bulk of its shipments, so that you can be one of the first to peruse the selection.

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One trip down Marshall’s specialty food section will reveal rows and rows of infused salts, inspired sauces, and high-quality oils, all of which can be used to amp up your cooking. The packaging on these items can be quite intimidating because it gives the feel of something expensive and only to be used during special occasions, but the low price says otherwise. So treat yourself and experiment — you may just find your new favorite jar or bottle that will become a pantry staple.

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Most of CVS’s store locations now offer a pretty impressive array of fresh fruits, vegetables, and even seasonal herbs, either pre-sliced and packaged or sold whole for you to hand-select. This means a trip to get your prescription can also turn into an opportunity to plan a picnic, as the store also sells a surprisingly robust line-up of cheeses, cold cuts, artisanal crackers, and, if you can believe it, wine. Cheers!

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You could be saving hundreds, if not thousands of dollars in packaged foods and canned goods by simply taking a quick trip to the dollar store. Dollar Tree doesn’t just sell off-brand, label-less iterations of classics — they have it all, from Campbell’s and Kellogg’s to Kraft and Hungry Jack. Dollar Tree also rewards those who purchase these shelf-stable pantry items in bulk (with coupons and discounts), so consider it the next best thing to Costco if you’re hoping to stock up without an annual membership fee.

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World Market lives up to its name by showcasing food from around the globe. From simmer sauces and seasoned nuts to fruit-based mixers and even beer, nearly every type of cuisine is represented. It’s the best way to hold over travelers until they’re able to take the next big trip and experience these coveted and geo-specific flavors at their actual destination.

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Not sure what to make for dinner? You’re not alone. Many of us have grown tired of the same ol’ routine of baking a protein and vegetable and heating up a starch. But gone are the days of dinnertime dullness. Bed Bath & Beyond boasts an entire area dedicated to sauce and spice-filled meal kits that will take your dishes from drab to fab. For most, all you have to do is provide the protein and fresh ingredients and allow the accompanying condiments to shine with their taste and versatility. An additional perk: Many of these kits are packaged beautifully in oversized baskets so that you can gift them to the food-loving friend or family member in your life, too.

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