Help your fellow Erie locals by participating in our grocery store survey

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By Stacy Rounds

October 24, 2025

Grocery shopping in Erie isn’t as simple as it used to be. Prices keep climbing, household budgets are tightening, and food assistance programs like SNAP will be completely cut off as of November 1—and who knows for how long.

In times like these, knowing where to shop can have a real impact. Whether you prefer small neighborhood grocers that reinvest in the community to major chains offering deep discounts and rewards, every shopping choice matters when you’re trying to balance the health and well-being of your family with what’s left in your wallet.

More people in Erie are thinking carefully about where their food comes from, how local farmers and businesses are supported, and how community efforts—like food banks, food pantries, and mutual aid programs—help make sure no one goes hungry. Shopping can be a statement of values as much as necessity, supporting sustainable agriculture, cutting down on food waste, or helping a neighborhood store stay open. Still, not everyone has the luxury of choice, which is why this guide focuses on both value and access. You’ll find information on local and international markets, places with the best fresh and organic options, and food programs that will help get us through the darkest times.

We’ve compiled a range of information about where to get food in Erie, but we’d also love to hear from you. The survey below gives residents a chance to share their go-to stores across four categories. We also plan to spotlight nonprofit food programs and free resources that you can use as a guide, whether you want to donate or know someone in need. When finished, this guide will serve as a living resource—one that helps Erie residents stay informed, save money, and connect.

Please take two minutes to fill out our survey below. In the first week of November, we will share the results plus information about food banks, mutual aid programs, pantries, and how you can help locally.

</p> <section data-block="SingleChoice"> <h2>What’s the most affordable grocery store in Erie?</h2> <p><p>This is specific to grocery-only stores, so big box stores such as Walmart, Target, and Sam’s Club will not be counted. However, you are welcome to write in another option, such as an independent or international grocery store.</p></p> <ul> <li>Wegman’s</li> <li>Giant Eagle</li> <li>Tops</li> <li>Aldi</li> <li>Save-a-Lot</li> <li>Erie Food Co-op</li> </ul> </section> <section data-block="SingleChoice"> <h3>What is Erie’s best farmers’ market?</h3> <ul> <li>Downtown Erie Farmers Market</li> <li>Little Italy Farmers Market</li> <li>Mason Farms Country Markets</li> <li>LEAF Open Market</li> <li>East Avenue “Pay-What-You-Can” Market</li> <li>Parade Street Fresh Food Farm Stand</li> <li>East Bayfront Eats & Arts Market</li> <li>Independence Hill Farmers Market</li> <li>West Erie Plaza Farmers Market</li> <li>South East Erie Farmers Market</li> </ul> </section> <section data-block="SingleChoice"> <h3>What is the best international/independent market in Erie?</h3> <ul> <li>Serafin’s Food Market</li> <li>Urbaniak Brothers Quality Meats & Market</li> <li>Almadina Supermarket</li> <li>Fadak International Food Market</li> <li>International Bazaar</li> <li>Los Primos Mexican Store</li> <li>Oriental Minimart</li> <li>Oakwood Freshmart</li> <li>City Fresh & Fast Mart</li> <li>UK Supermarket</li> <li>Darshan Friendly Mart</li> </ul> </section> <section data-block="SingleChoice"> <h3>What’s the best store for holiday meal shopping in Erie?</h3> <p><p>This is specific to grocery-only stores, so big box stores such as Walmart, Target, and Sam’s Club will not be counted. However, you are welcome to write in another option, such as an independent or international grocery store.</p></p> <ul> <li>Wegman’s</li> <li>Giant Eagle</li> <li>Tops</li> <li>Aldi</li> <li>Save-a-Lot</li> <li>Erie Food Co-op</li> </ul> </section> <p> </p> <p>

Author

Stacy Rounds

Stacy Rounds is a writer and growth producer for The Keystone. Prior to joining the team, Stacy has worked as a writer, editor, and engagement specialist covering topics ranging from local history, disability advocacy, recreation, and food hotspots to relationships and mental health.

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