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| - I think Rollin's Market is fine. Rollin's is about 150 yards from my place of residence. If I want fancy canned goods, rare game or fruits unknown, I'll go to the appropriate market. In the meantime, Rollin's has everything I need.
For my first visit, I took my son to see what they had to offer. I had read reviews of spoiled fruit and bug-laden flour. I owed it to myself to check out this market; if only for their liquor section.
Their liquor section was decent. As far as Tempe goes, it's not going to compete with a downtown Circle K. There is a lot of cooler space, but imports and Taster's Choice selections are, unsurprisingly, limited. I did, however, discover tall bottles of Stella Artois for less than $3 each. Again, not a bargain, but definitely not bad for WALKING DISTANCE. BTW, beer and wine only -- they don't sell hard liquor. The wine selection is limited. $7.99 for Barefoot. You get the idea.
The deli counters were unique and adventurous. The salsa is homemade and plentiful. You have no idea what you're missing. They serve breakfast all day and offer a pancakes and sausage or bacon platter for $3.99. Would you pay someone else $4 to make you pancakes and bacon? Shut up. You know you would.
I took a good look at the produce. I didn't see wrinkled limes, lemons or apples. There was average-looking pineapple and cantaloupe. Surprisingly, there was a lot of produce...including stuff you wouldn't normally see. Jicama! Tomatillos!
What was interesting was when I tried to leave. The guy behind the deli hopped out and asked me what I was looking for, duly noting that I had not made a purchase. The guy took a special interest in what I needed. I told him I wanted a burrito, but they were all out in the deli. He told me to wait and then made me a burrito right there on the spot. He then proceeded to mark it as 1/2 off. I can't argue with that kind of service. These people are working hard to earn their market!
I tell you what... It's small. It's strange. It's unlike most stores in the west, but it's a pretty common thing in the east. Regardless, it's a cool place and it's earned my business. It's not AJ's fine foods, but it doesn't have to be. If you want organic produce, then go out and look for it. In the meantime, Rollin's has my necessities and Saturday morning breakfast covered.
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