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| - This is a dual review. The first part will focus on Whole Foods. The second part will focus on 1788 Pub inside the store.
Part one. Arriving on opening day the place is packed but they do have guides leading you to park. The lot is not overly big but I was directed to an inside basement parking where I was able to secure a spot. By the time I left they were directing traffic up the hill to a new development parking area which is still under construction.
What makes it handy is that there is elevator service from the ground floor up to the shopping entrance. I grabbed a cart, picked up some coupons they were giving and tried to make my way around. All around are "tasting" stations where you can sample some of their foods. The first one I happened to meet was Pure Sky Farms where I got to sample some arugula. They grow locally and I learned that they are in the process of opening up a location under the Liberty Bridge on East Carson St sometime in the near future.
It has been a long time since I visited Whole Foods in East Liberty but I remembered that they primarily sell organic food as well as premium beauty items. The meat aisle served the freshest I had ever seen including a butcher's area. All the samples I tried were very good but keep in mind you are paying for this quality.
When you go around the perimeter of the store you will encounter dairy, breads, pastries and even a section where they sell local gifts. I recognized my Tee I had purchased last week from Commonwealth Press and was told that they are one of the suppliers but this Tee was made out of some sort of organic material. Note it was the same price as what I paid for mine last week. Honestly no one will know the difference!
Near the produce section is a standalone coffee, tea, and juice bar called "Good Neighbor." I did not stop here since I had seen similar setups in other major grocery chains. While visiting the bread section I learned that some are made in house and the others are supplied by Mediterra bakery in Robinson Twp. Since I'm a fan of Mediterra and have been there previously I ordered a cranberry walnut bread from Whole Foods to freeze and try.
Continuing on from the bread and baked goods area I came across stands that sell charcuterie, pizza, and stacked sandwiches. Across from it are 4 bars, one being a salad bar and the others various foods you can take out. Cost is $8.99 per pound. Near the pub is a complete selection of wine and beers and growlers for purchase
What I was disappointed with was when I tried to maneuver through the aisles they are so narrow and packed to the brim with groceries. I am taking into consideration that this is opening day but I don't see it getting any better once the initial crowds wear off.
Don't look for ethnic foods here. If you want that then head over to the Market District near Village Square. They have a similar style layout and I'm sure this place will go head to head with them.
Part two. 1788 Pub. Yes they built a tiny eatery and bar within this complex. Since this is their only location I decided to try their food for lunch. It is set up at a right angle to the general lounging and eating area. They serve lunch and dinner M-Sat and on Sun they have a weekend brunch. For lunch you could have anything from half shell oysters, steamed mussels, purple cabbage, pierogies,to catfish, chicken and NY strip. It is counter service but you order at the bar. There you can get signature cocktails and wine by the glass.
Since I had a medical apt following this visit I didn't want to have a bevvie but wanted a store tea. I was told that I would have to purchase that first through the regular checkout area and then I could bring it in to drink when I placed my order.
So I went to pay for the few items I bought and was told I had the wrong cart! It's a standard grocery store cart and since I was using express checkout I was told I needed a mini cart but they gave me a carry one. Joy!
Back to 1788 Pub I went with my purchases and ordered the tempura fried catfish which comes with spicy sauce, kale, and turmeric pickles. After I placed my order I was given a light buzzer which you all use while you're waiting for your food or a table. The lady I was chatting with regarding the spicy sauce was kind enough to bring my meal to me. With the exception of the NY strip steak which is $22.00 expect to pay at least $12.00 for your food not including cocktails. Brunch prices follow suit.
My meal was okay but filing enough. I though the sauce was too spicy for me so they brought me a mayo sauce that worked better. I would say the food was average for me but prepared well. Next time I visit I'll try one of those food stations they have outside. Please note they don't list the price of these stations, I had to ask for it so keep that in mind when you wish to dine here. Depending upon weight you can pay a fortune.
Other than that this is just the third of the Whole Foods chain. Good food, high prices
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