By: Nancy Brandwein

Nancy Brandwein — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 20:20:07 +0000

I absolutely loved this essay–wish I’d written it myself. It was pitch perfect and as a New Yorker for the past 25 years, I’ve experienced everything you described. Shopping at the 72nd Fairway is, indeed, a litmus test for “if you can make it here, you’ll make it anywhere.” Bravo, and I hope to read more of your essays.

By: Joseph Bolanos

Joseph Bolanos — Sat, 11 Jul 2009 03:49:04 +0000

It’s nice to finally read a story about something that many longtime residents have known.
Shopping at Fairway is a chaotic experience. I’ve seen less pushing in a roller derby championship!
In fact, if any out-of-towner wanted to witness the rude New Yorker stereotype, Fairway is the place to go.
Cart thrusting like a bumper car rally, elbow jabbing that would make Vince McMahon proud and, of course, the forever-entitled baby stroller maniacals.

And should you finally make it to the checkout line…bruised and dazed…your shopping experience is finally ended with a screaming checkout “handler” that screams you into submission…and cashier 7…or whatever terminal is open!

And although I seldom venture in to this ‘Farmer’s Inferno’ (that only Dante would appreciate) I can’t help but wonder what would ever happen if there was a fire in this place. I dare not imagine. Surely, there HAS to be fire code that prevents such overcrowding indoors.
One would think.

There is some hope in the horizon, however. Trader Joe’s on 72nd & Bway is scheduled to open later his year.
It’ll be nice to have a place where I do my food shopping without a helmet and protective gear!

Comments on: Extreme Grocery Shopping

By: Nancy Brandwein

By: Joseph Bolanos