Grocery shopping. There is no avoiding it. Whether this is a chore you endure or something you love, Reston boasts a wide variety of grocery store options, from traditional chains to gourmet markets. The best thing about the Reston grocery scene is the abundance of quality choices, all within easy reach. No matter what you are looking for from kitchen staples to prepared foods, there is a store for you.
Balducci’s 1871 Fountain Dr.
The newest kid on the block, Balducci’s is sure to delight both the consummate cook and the prepared food lover alike. This gourmet market, overflowing with culinary treasures, is located on the ground floor of the Signature Luxury Residences in Reston Town Center. The store features a well-curated produce department, extensive bakery, a sushi and poke bar, locally sourced meats, seafood, and a growler bar with wine, beer and cheese. The center grocery aisles are narrower than other stores, but contain a wide variety of specialty items sure to excite your inner foodie. A “Make Your Own” dispenser lets customers create their own infused olive oils, vinegars, dressings and marinades. The store also has a dedicated catering department. Free two hour parking is available in the Silver garage.
Whole Foods Market 11660 Plaza AmericaDr.
As the king of all things organic, Whole Foods is the place to shop for the best selection of natural, organic, and vegan groceries. An amazing bakery, healthy prepared foods, a fresh and diverse soup and salad bar, and an extensive bulk food section are just some of the things shoppers have come to count on. Although their rotisserie chickens are among the priciest, at 9.99 a bird, the taste of this organic, air-chilled chicken can’t be beat.
Trader Joe’s 11958 Killingsworth Ave.
Known for its unique offerings and low prices, Trader Joe’s also has one of the most renowned store brands in the industry. Check out some of their private label bestsellers, including pork gyoza potstickers, organic extra virgin olive oil, frozen mandarin orange chicken, and cookie butter. When the holidays roll around, be sure to stock up on their peppermint bark, arguably some of the best around!
Harris Teeter The Spectrum Center
Harris Teeter carries all the big name brands, along with their own HT Trader imprint, another shining example of a quality store label. You name it, there is an HT Trader version and it is usually pretty darn good. Their subs, sushi and pizza are top notch, and as an added bonus, you can rack up freebies and other benefits with their Sub Club, as well as with the Fresh Catch Club and the Wine Club. Their bakery is the place to go if you are looking for a delicious half vanilla, half chocolate sheet cake. Be sure to grab a free Harry the Dragon cookie to munch on while you shop.
Giant Northpoint Village Center
Thanks to a recent makeover, the Northpoint Giant now has a large self-checkout area, great for when you are grabbing a few items in a hurry. Due to the renovation, things have moved around, but aisle signs help if you are used to the old set-up. Giant has an onsite pharmacy, prepared foods, and a cut-to-order deli. Both the meat department and seafood department have a knowledgeable, longtime staff ready to lend a hand. They also have a wine expert, onsite weekly, to offer tastings and advice on wine parings. Gas rewards are also available.
Safeway Hunters Woods Village Center; South Lakes Village Shopping Center
This veteran chain has two stores in Reston, featuring a floral department, fish and meat counters, deli with prepared foods, and an onsite pharmacy. The stores both have large, well-stocked produce departments, with regular deals on precut fruits and veggies. Their weekly $5 sale items, including meats, seafood, and baked goods make it impossible to leave without scoring some kind of delicious deal.