Trader Joe's coming to Fort Worth, I hope

[peppergal]

The Star-Telegram has reported that Trader Joe's has filed a sales tax application for 2701 South Hulen, where Ronnie's was located and Dorian's Interior Design is now located. When the S-T tried to contact Dorian's for comment, the store was closed. It didn't say whether it was outside normal store hours or not.

The application gave a December 15 start date, although apparently it doesn't have to open by then.

Good news!

[burntcremebrulee]

Here are some things that I love that I've found at Trader Joe's...

1.) The Ginger People(brand) ginger chews they sell there. Wow, I ate the entire bag in 2 days! A must for any ginger lover. The more you chew the spicier it gets, very addicting so watch out.

2.) Trader Joe's Roasted coconut chips. A great sweet coconut chip with a hint of salt.These are one of my favorite things to get at Trader Joe's. They are f****** good! They sell out quick also.

3.) They have pretty good fresh pre-made pizza dough.

4.) Kerrygold butter

5.) Blood Orange Italian soda. They have other kinds too.

6.) The goat cheese is really good also, give it a try trust me. The brand is Laura Chanel.

7.) Crab stuffed flounder in the frozen section. Defrosts and cooks quickly.

8.) Trader joe's mushroom ravioli, (frozen but delish!)

9.) The tuna in olive oil

10.) Feta cheese with Mediterranean herbs (soooo good!)

11.) Olive bread, I love eating this with the feta cheese above^, while dipping the bread in good olive oil.

12.) Great prices on dried fruits. Love the antioxidant fruit blend and tart cherries.

13.)Spicy chipotle hummus.

14.) Milk chocolate (in the pink package)

15.)Gyoza chinese potstickers (frozen but very good)

16.) Fresh spinach totellini

17.) Frozen naan

18.)Frozen risotto (yes I though the same thing, but try it, its great)

19.) They have a REALLY good sweet hot mustard there, and their dijon from france is some really good dijon as well.

20.) Honey sesame cashews, need I say more?

21.)Chocolate covered frozen banana slices, makes a great snack. They also have really good banana crisp., not chips but crisp (these are not frozen).

22.) Their frozen samaos are very good also.

[mjtx]

We went today. It was crowded, but nothing like the crowds reported for Friday. They were out or low on many of the items that were on special.. They were out of Two Buck Chuck Cabernet, Merlot and Chardonnay. They said that they were getting another shipment in tomorrow. and that they sold 22 pallets of wine in two days. If there is anything special that you want and are driving in from Dallas, I would call before I go unless you just want to go for the sake of going. It was fun just to be there and we did buy some TJ items that we were hoping to buy. Wd are looking forward to going back when it isn't so crowded. And of course we are looking forward to the opening of the Plano store.

[peppergal]

Thanks for the update, mj. I may try tomorrow or Tuesday. Glad to know about the wine! 22 pallets in in 2 days -- good grief! But I'm anxious to try it, too.

[Barbara76137]

I was in South Texas over the weekend, so I stopped by around 8:15 tonight on my way back home. The store was still pretty busy. It was sort of a wreck, you could see all the empty spots where items were completely sold out. I expected that.

All of the staff were really helpful, I was walking around rather dazed after working horses for two days and then driving 240 miles back home. I also had a 12 week old kitten on my car.

I bought some of my "TJ's Staples" and will wait a little while until I can see restocked shelves so I know what has been discontinued.

I can tell you right now, they are wasting way too much shelf space on Texas wine. As I was checking out, I mentioned that and checker & bagger concurred. They said Texas beer had been selling like crazy, but I wasn't the first comment on TX wine.

As a former Californian, TJ's introduced our own Tito's Vodka to CA, and it became almost a cult following. So TJ's is open to product from all over the world.

[mjtx]

Barbara, I agree about the wines. We think of Trader Joe's and think of California wines and wines that we can't get here. We've been in TJ's in multiple cities and the wine selection at the Fort Worth store seems much more limited than in other TJ's.

[peppergal]

Very interesting comments, Barbara and mj. I'm disappointed to learn that the wine selection has been diminished and almost "dumbed-down" for the locals.

I realize that a lot of things were out of stock when both of you were there, but did you notice whether other types of products were more of what we can regularly buy here at other stores?

[mjtx]

Most of the items are TJ branded and we have found them to be excellent. I don't think that you will be disappointed with TJ's . .

[Barbara76137]

The sparkling mineral water with lime is identical to Crystal Geyser but only .99. Organic cannellini beans are a bargain at .89 a can. The heirloom mini tomatoes were 2.99 for a 1 lb. clamshell.

The lite brie was a disappointment, so price didn't matter. Right now I'm enjoying a frozen arugula and grape tomato pizza that has a decent crust. Not bad for 4.29.

The TJ's water crackers are only 1.29 and I've been buying them for years. Only saw the plain ones last night, but hope they still have the cracked pepper ones. I can't understand paying $3 or $4 for a box of crackers! I think the 4 oz. package of Citterio cubed pancetta is a bargain at 2.99.

I only saw tiny bottles of balsamic vinegar for 3.99, and I used to buy a 1 liter jug for around 5.99. I realize there are different qualities, but the tiny bottles didn't seem too special.

Texas wine took up the entire side of one "aisle". What a waste! TJ's may be famous for two buck Chuck, but they also have bottled under their own label some nice wines for $5 to $10. They had a Sangiovese "Under the Tuscan Sun" that was reasonable & dependable.

peppergal, think of TJ's at the opposite end of the spectrum to Costco when it comes to private label items. I trust Kirkland brand items since I know Costco is always looking for the best price. TJ's is the same way.

[peppergal]

Thanks so much, mj and barbara. I'm afraid my earlier comment sounded a little snarly, and I didn't intend that. I'd heard from a couple of other people that the shelves were a little bare -- because people had already purchased so much! -- and that they were a little disappointed. My apologies if Ii sounded critical. I didn't mean that.

Having never been to a TJs, I don't really know what to expect, except I've heard such good things about them for a long, long time, and I don't anticipate being disappointed. I particularly appreciate your comments, barbara, about Kirkland products. I don't remember ever being disappointed in any of them.

I've received a couple of Fearless Flyers, and am interested in the VINTJS wines. Do you all know anything about them? And, of course, I'm looking forward to the Two Buck Chucks!

Glad to hear about the water crackers. I agree -- the price of crackers these days is crazy.

Do you know if TJs has a plastic bag recycling bin? I usually take mine to Central Market, but I've waited so long this time that I'm almost embarrassed to lug the lot into CM. Thought maybe I could divide them between TJ and CM and save myself a lot of sideways looks!

I have a couple of meetings tomorrow, so maybe I can get by TJs tomorrow afternoon. This will be a whole new adventure for me, and I'm looking forward to it. Thanks again for all your help and suggestions.

[Barbara76137]

They don't give you a choice of paper or plastic, they only use paper. I brought my own.

[peppergal]

Thanks for the heads-up, Barbara.

[randyjl]

How was it? I have to drive a good way to TJ's but cant wait till they get to Dallas.

[peppergal]

Well, I still haven't made it inside. Went by there on Tuesday, but the parking lot was packed and no parking available for blocks around. Nearby businesses have signs, "No TJs parking; cars will be towed". Police cars still around -- saw only two on Tuesday, rather than the eight on Friday. To say this has been a successful opening for them would probably be an understatement! If all those people bought only one item.... Maybe next week....

[mjtx]

I would call before I go to see what days they restock. Also, when you are there you have to really look on all of the shelves. For instance, we wanted their preserves and we had to look hard to fine them since they were on the bottom two shelves whereas in other TJ stores they are at eye level.

[peppergal]

Thanks for the hints, mj. I may be the last person in Tarrant County to go inside. Luckily, they're located in my stomping grounds, so it's easy to get by there and see if they're still packed. Love the idea of calling ahead to find out when they restock.

[Barbara76137]

I stopped by around 8 tonight and the parking lot was packed. I had to circle it twice before I found a space. By the time I left there were plenty of empty spaces, so I'd suggest going there just before closing.

All the shelves were much better stocked/restocked than Sunday evening except for the wine department.

[BeckJ]

Thanks for all the updates. Still waiting to go to TJ's, I don't
want to deal with all the crowds. Yes I do know it will still be
crowded. But I am waiting for the newness to wear off a bit.
Am still excited about TJs being here. I am longing for some
good Olive Oils and Vanilla. And am sadden to hear the wines
are dumbed down for the Texas Market....and they have filled the
shelves with Texas Wines. Not that I don't appreciate that somewhat.
But you can get those at most Wine Shops or local spirit stores.
I always liked TJs in CA because you could get wines from Oregon
and Washington State as well.

[mrs.brownie]

So is it safe to go yet?? Hoping the crowds have died down.

[Barbara76137]

If I could muster up to not only once, but TWICE, a visit to TJ's in the first week here in FW.....

I've been in a total rut cooking for the past few months, since my cat died in March. Since shopping at TJ's I'm getting inspired again about cooking really fun meals. Great salads and pastas and I'm experimenting again with all these great vegetables.

[peppergal]

I haven't been by there since last Tuesday, simply because I've been busy with other things,so I can't tell you whether things have quieted down a bit or not. I'm going to give it another try, probably next week.

[mrs.brownie]

I went yesterday around 11 am. And while the traffic on Hulen stinks, the parking lot was not bad and I had no trouble finding a spot to part. Once inside, it was busy but not crazy. It was a little hard to wander and discover all the new stuff seeing as everyone else was too. But the store is beautiful (smaller than I thought, very cozy almost) And the big plus....,.I didn't have to wait in line to check out!!! And the checker outer was about the sweetest lady ever. Seems like everyone is jazzed to work there.

Came home very inspired to cook some fun organic and creative foods!

[KrumTx]

I went to the TJs in Overland Park KS last fall and it was much smaller than I thought it'd be, too. Definitely "cozy." It had just opened about a month before, I believe, and my dad had said crowds were insane the first two weeks. By the time I was there, it was no more frenetic than other grocery stores. I do remember that my point-of-sale purchases were insane!

[Barbara76137]

The craziness has died down. I stopped by yesterday (Friday) evening around 6PM and had no problem finding a parking space. The store was well-stocked and I was able to find a number of my old standbys that I've missed.

[randyjl]

I was there at 6 as well! We should have a CH renunion! Got the Cinnamon bread...awesome! The dark chocolate mints, too. Will be trying the other goodies I got. I drove 50 miles from Forney to get there. Can't wait for the Dalla one!

[peppergal]

Thanks, Barbara and randy -- good to know things are becoming a little bit calmer! I plan to go next week.

Love your idea, randy, of a CH reunion -- that would be fun! It would be great to have some experienced TJ shoppers leading the way! Anybody up for Thursday evening?

[Barbara76137]

Went there around 2:30 on the Fourth since they were only open until 5. It was crowded but I still found a parking space right away. There seemed to be a lot of "tourists", people just staring at things and looking for free samples.

Last time I was there the package of baby heirloom tomatoes never made it home, I guess they were left the checkout stand. They graciously gave me another package.

[randyjl]

The dark chocolate mints are almost as good as the insanely expensive ones that I buy at Harrod' in London when I am fortunate to be there. BTW if you love mint try the mint candy corn that Central Market sells during the Christmas holidays---made with nature mint. Addictive!

[twinwillow]

More TJ's.....

http://blogs.dallasobserver.com/cityo...

[KrumTx]

Wow - up to 50 people in each line! Glad I didn't attempt to go, though it was tempting. I'll look for reports here on when it's safe to go! Thanks to all for the updates

[twinwillow]

http://sidedish.dmagazine.com/2012/06...

[peppergal]

Thanks, tw, for passing along. They all sound good.

I stand corrected. I said there were 6 police cars -- according to the news, there were 8. But who's counting?!

[peppergal]

Here's another: http://360westmagazine.com

[Barbara76137]

I made the mistake of trying to go there around 12:30 today. NO WAY!!! Maybe I can sneak in there Sunday night after all the craziness subsides.

[alliegator]

I got a flyer in the mail yesterday! Not even going to try it today, don't want to get trampled over by the mob :P

[peppergal]

That was a smart decision, Allie. Since I don't live far away, I drove by around 11:15 or so, thinking I'd go in if it weren't too crowded. It was crazy! About 6 police cars were there, with policemen directing traffic (which makes complete sense, since there's so much road construction around there). There was no parking available for blocks, and it looked as if the residents of Stonegate Nursing Home (just behind TJ's) had a houseful of "visitors" today!

Maybe TJ's will see me sometime next week!

[peppergal]

TJ's parking lot full all day yesterday. Manager said it was employee training.

Opens 8 a.m. tomorrow morning.,

Tick tock....

[mjtx]

Plano will open September 7!!!!

[sarahintexas]

Any word on the Plano opening date?

[Hasteur]

When I drove by last week, I saw significant construction on the framework and work in the parking lot, I would say probably a few more months for Plano

[peppergal]

You may be interested in some of the responses to a thread I posted (yesterday?) on the Chains board. Some really helpful hints about TJ goodies from other CHers.

Two weeks from today!

[peppergal]

Signs up on building!

[KrumTx]

peppergal, I'm so bummed! For some reason I had June 1 in my head. This morning I went to the Star-Telegram site to see how Yu did (game too late for me:)) and they had a link stating the TJs June 15 opening. I came here to tell you and see now that I mis-remembered the opening date! Must have been wishful thinking. I'm like a 6-year-old waiting for Christmas.

[peppergal]

KT, I listened to the game for a while on the radio. Oops. I understand that Yu apologized for his performance. Despite the money, it must be hard in a lot of ways.

I understand the wishful thinking. I'm by the site fairly often, and I keep looking, looking, A siren song? They still hadn't taken down the fence when I was by a week or so ago. There wasn't a whole lot of parking at Dorian's (the previous business) and don't know if they've been able to increase it. Opening day should be a madhouse -- wouldn't want to be their neighbors those first couple of weeks....

See you on the 15th!

[peppergal]

By there earlier today. Fences down! Huge signs up! Along with an "Opening Soon" banner.... The parking lot was full -- hope they didn't have a soft opening without letting me know!

[KrumTx]

They wouldn't dare!

[peppergal]

I'd certainly think not!

[Barbara76137]

peppergal & KrumTx, should we just start camping out in their parking lot?

[peppergal]

Sounds like a good idea to me! I'll bring the snacks. Or maybe they'd let us step inside for just a few minutes for sustenance....

[KrumTx]

Great idea, Barbara! We'd be like tweens waiting for the hunger games movie. I actually picture us now like the woman in Target's black friday commercials - lifting weights and doing sprints so we can be stealth-like on tj's opening day.

[peppergal]

The S-T reported this morning that TJ's started taking applications yesterday for store personnel, for work to begin at the end of May. TJ's isn't saying when its opening will be.

It shouldn't be too far away, now!

[twinwillow]

Read todays article in the Observer's 'City of Ate' blog. They're opening the Ft. Worth store in June.

And according to this evenings early news, June, 15 to be exact.

[peppergal]

Thanks, twin. Just got home from a meeting, so didn't see the early evening news. Saw the photo in the Observer blog you mentioned, and unless the fence has been removed in the last day or two, they must have gone into the construction area to take a picture! Thanks for the reference. Less than two months, now! Hope to see you there!

[peppergal]

And that's what their website says, too -- June 15th! Can't wait -- must get a copy of their flyer!

[twinwillow]

I'm waiting for the one in Dallas on lower Greenville to open. Its very close to me.

[peppergal]

I understand. Still, we'd love to have you!

[Barbara76137]

So will Fort Worth open before lower Greenville, and will tw have to make the trek to FW???? tw, you are welcome here and my kitchen is yours!!!!

[twinwillow]

Barbara, you're so sweet. I'll call you.

[KrumTx]

Thank you, peppergal, for all your sleuthing on the Fort Worth TJ's. I'm so excited, too. It's much easier for me to take 35W into FW than 35E to Lower Greenville. Keep us all posted, if you don't mind

[peppergal]

You're welcome, KrumTx. It's gonna be fun, I think, and can't wait to see all they carry. I've never been to a TJ's, just read about their treasure trove! I live fairly close by, and when I drove by there a few days ago I still couldn't see more than the top of the building. Maybe, in order to keep gawkers (like me!) away while they're doing their finish work, they've decided to keep the perimeter fencing in place until closer to the opening date.

Don't know if this is of any interest to you, but Spec's liquor store (I've never been to one of them, either) will open in the old Marvin Electronics space almost across the street from TJs. TJs will be on the East side of Hulen, Spec's on the West. Spec's appparently has a huge stock with low prices.

For now, though, it's waiting on TJs. Hope to see you on June 15th -- there'll probably be only a few of us there, so we shouldn't have any trouble recognizing each other!

[twinwillow]

A while back I subscribed to Trader Joe's newsletter. I received (by snail mail) the first one today. Its chock full of interesting food items at very low prices.
I recommend anyone interested in Trader Joe's to subscribe to, Trader Joe's, "Fearless Flyer" newsletter.

[peppergal]

Thanks, twin. I saw that on their website several months ago, but didn't subscribe. Thanks for the heads-up that it really is interesting. I'll take another look.

[peppergal]

This is the latest I know, though nothing official:

I was by the new TJ's site a couple of hours ago. The construction traffic is so bad I don't see how they'll be open anytime soon. Couldn't see the building itself, as a tall fence has been constructed, sheathed in green tarp, with "2701" spray-painted on the tarp. 2701 is the street address.

Just went to the TJ's website. Under "stores near you", Lower Greenville is listed, with an accompanying map, and FW and Plano locations deleted.

Clicking on "stores coming soon", it lists Lower Greenville first, followed by Fort Worth, then stores in LA, MA, etc., with Plano listed 7th or 8th. The list isn't in alphabetical order.

That's all I know. 'Tis a puzzlement. But I'm getting hungry!

[Barbara76137]

I called TJ's offices in CA about three weeks ago and couldn't get any specific opening dates.

[mjtx]

I went to the Trader Joe's website and entered my zip code and the Plano location came up with COMING SOON . When I entered " Dallas " in the search field , the same note with the Greenville location came up. If I just entered "Texas", then the 3 in our area (Fort Worth, Dallas and Plano) came up. But, if I entered "Houston" then the Houston location came up.

[BeckJ]

Any Opening dates for the Greenville location yet?
Getting anxious for TJs to open ;)

[Barbara76137]

I keep checking the website but still no opening date or phone number for Greenville. I was told Plano would open first, but Greenville seems first according to the website.

[BeckJ]

Thanks Barbara.....still waiting and waiting and waiting.

[peppergal]

I'm not sure their website is indicative of anything other than planned openings in the area. What comes up depends on what zip code you enter. And I have no idea what the "store numbers" mean either -- order of store opening, order of when the lease was signed, order of sales tax app being filed with the State, or something totally arbitrary....

Was by the FW site earlier today. The little I could see, it appears there is still construction going on -- heavy equipment on-site, etc. Still surrounded by green fencing (though the painted-on street numbers seem to have disappeared), but some of that may be to give some protection from the Hulen Street bridge construction still going on right in front of the store. Maybe they feel in no rush to open, due to that bridge work (both North and South of the store). I can't imagine what their opening-day (or opening-month) congestion would be now. It's a mess, as is. Without TJs. C'est la....

[mjtx]

We finally made it to the TJ'S LOCATIONS OPENING SOON page on the Trader Joe's website!!!

[peppergal]

Finally! For anyone who's interested, you can go to their website, traderjoes.com, and under "The Soapbox" tab can register for news, grand openings, The Fearless Flyer, etc., by either email or mail.

Can't wait! Thanks, mj.

[Barbara76137]

Finally called TJ's corporate office and was told that Plano will be the first to open, but didn't have exact date.

[peppergal]

Was just by the Fort Worth site (Hulen), but hesitated darting my eyes to the East with all the road construction going on! That street's been a mess for forever. Anyway, didn't dare look to see if I could find some signs of new life on that corner. No doubt will be on Hulen again soon, and will report if I see anything promising.

[twinwillow]

I'm very excited to have Trader Joe's in Dallas. Especially because their Lower Greenville location will be very convenient for me.

[mjtx]

We passed by the Preston/Park location yesterday and there is construction going on.

[CocoaNut]

Park@Preston and Lower Greenville, but no mention of FW. :(

http://www.nbcdfw.com/video/#!/the-sc...

[peppergal]

This may have been added after you read the story, Cocoa, but the version I read from the link you cited said something about "in addition to the store already announced in Fort Worth." It went on to say, later in the article, that FW would be the first TJ location in North Texas. We'll see -- and I hope soon!

[BeckJ]

Can not wait.....getting a tad giddy here :)
Love me some TJ's.

[CocoaNut]

That's great to know! I hadn't read the story, just saw the video from the 10 pm news last night - which didn't mention FW. Thanks for the correction.

[peppergal]

"If winter comes, can spring be far away?" That came from somewhere in the recesses of my mind -- hope it's still true!

I hope we all run into each other on opening day. On second thought, maybe OD+1. Can you imagine the crowds? That's not a huge space, or maybe it just looked smaller with all the furniture Dorian's had.

[EWSflash]

You'll love having a TJ's near you. They aren't perfect, but they're a real shot in the arm to the usual local grocery store scene. I was and am so glad that they opened the first one in Tucson within a half mile of my house.

[BeckJ]

I have lived in Northern CA for a few years. My husband's work keeps him in Northern CA and when I go out to stay.....I always shop there. Nothing beats their chocolates or olive oils, vanilla, granola, organic dairy. AND WINES. Plus many other things. I am so excited to see one come to the northern parts of Texas.
Just wanted a update on when we might possibly see one open here.

[Barbara76137]

I sent an email today asking for an approximate opening date but I just got a generic response. I think I'll try to call their headquarters in CA this week. Can you tell I'm a bit addicted to TJ's? :)

[peppergal]

Thanks, Barbara. Will be anxious to hear their response. Good for you!

[BeckJ]

Looking forward to TJ's and will happily wait for your reply Barbars76137 to any news
you can obtain from their HQ. Thanks again.

[peppergal]

When they open, EWS, I hope you'll give us some thoughts about your favorite products. We're looking forward to hearing from you.

[mjtx]

Per Teresa Gubbins:

Trader Joe's has announced two new locations for stores, including one in Dallas and one in Plano.

The Dallas store will open on Lower Greenville Avenue where the Arcadia Theater stood.

In Plano, the store will open in an old Kroger at Preston and Park, in the same shopping center as outdoorsy store REI.

Trader Joe's told the DMN that the Plano store will open in the spring, while the Dallas store will open in the fall.

[peppergal]

Just heard on the radio (WBAP? -- wasn't really listening) that the TJs in Fort Worth and one somewhere around Houston will be the first TJ stores to open in Texas. Dallas stores will come later in the year. I'm ready!

[foiegras]

This 'coverage' strikes me as typical of Dallas ... they must give them Fort Worth-shaped blinders.

[BeckJ]

Any updates on the Fort Worth Trader Joes?
How far along they are or when a opening date is?

[peppergal]

I haven't read or seen anything in the paper since I first posted, though, as I recall, I believe someone upboard posted that they were opening in the spring.

[BeckJ]

Thanks so much for your knowledge.....I just can't wait and was hoping to see one by Christmas time :( Love the peppermint bark with the dark chocolate. At last I will keep checking for updates.
Thank you again.

[peppergal]

You're welcome, Beck. I'll post whenever I hear anything. I was hoping for before-Christmas, too!

[peppergal]

While on the computer just now, an ad popped up saying that Dorian's (the space on Hulen where TJ's is supposed to open in FW) has "lost their lease" and their last day is December 23.

Can TJ's be far behind?

Though I do hate to see Dorian's leave -- not that I was a big customer of theirs, but they did had some interesting seminars, and I hate to see spots go out of business. There's still Stacy's (which I've never been to) and I believe a newer Dorian's in Grapevine.

That's all I know!

[peppergal]

After I posted this afternoon, I called Dorian's, and, yes, they are closing. Their last day open is December 23, and they have to be out by December 30th. The woman I talked to said Trader Joe's is coming into the space. So early spring sounds right.

[alliegator]

Wow, I'm coming late to this party... but that's awesome news. I love CM, but a little competition never hurt anyone. Too bad the Borders space didn't work out for them, that would have been very fun!

[peppergal]

Never too late, allie. Yes, the Borders location would have been great fun --- wouldn't have helped the parking situation there, but fun, nevertheless!

When are you going to open your asian snack stand? I'll be there!

[alliegator]

Oh well, just having a Traders Joe's will be fun enough!
The snack stand will always be an "I wish"... but nice to know I would have a customer :D

[mjtx]

I just heard on the radio that TJ announced that their first store is going to be in Ft Worth and the second store is going to be in the Woodlands.

[twinwillow]

I heard on this mornings news, they were looking at locations in Dallas for two more stores.
I guess not terribly large because their Ft. Worth store is only going to be 12,500 square feet.
Thats a fairly typical size for the stores I've been to in California.

[Barbara76137]

Hey, tw, will that finally give you an excuse to visit Fort Worth?

The first TJ's I visited was back in the early '80's and it was across from MGM studios in Culver City, CA. That store was tiny and jam packed! They sure have changed through the years!

[twinwillow]

Hi Barbara.
I'd come to Ft. Worth to see you. Still have my email address?

[peppergal]

I missed that! Did the story give any indication of when the Fort Worth store would open?

[mjtx]

Spring

[peppergal]

Thanks.

[BeckJ]

Wonderful News. However having lived in CA for a few years, and Texas most of my years, I do not see where these 2 stores a like. Most products in CM are HEB based. Most products in Trader Joe's are private label for there stores. They do have some amazing Olive Oil, Vanilla, Chocolate Chips, Granola etc. But IMHO there are nothing alike. You will not have a huge selection of fruits and vegetables in a TJ. Nor will you find lots of beers and wine. Or aisles of other products. You will find some amazing buys on good wines, good organic produce and some wonderful organic dairy.

[peppergal]

Thanks, Beck. I was thinking primarily of the fact that they're both specialty-type stores. Never having been to a TJ's, I'm anxious to have a chance to be able to shop at both! Hopefully, that isn't too far away....

[peppergal]

And thanks for your suggestions,

[Barbara76137]

The prices at TJ's on wine, cheese oils & vinegars, and, my favorite, their pound plus dark chocolate bar w/almonds, are all much lower than CM. I also like the selection of salads. When I was in CA last month my first stop on the way from SFO to my hotel was a TJ's. I got a few bottles of wine, a salad for dinner that evening, some dips and pita bread and other snacks that were all relatively healthy and VERY tasty to have in my room throughout my stay.

Once TJ's opens I'll rarely go to Central Market.

[Putters]

I totally agree BeckJ. Trader Joes is nothing like Central Market. TJ's is more like Sprouts. I will however, never forget the time hubby and I were at TJ's in the Portland Oregon area and heard persistent horn honking from the parking lot and wondering who would leave their kid in the car anyway. When finished shopping we went to the car, we discovered our dachshind was barking and bouncing off the middle of the steering wheel ...right on the horn, whenever somebody passed by.

[twinwillow]

Yah, Sprout's on steroids!

[Barbara76137]

YAY!!!!!! I checked the TJ's website a few days ago and it didn't say anything about Fort Worth. I was under the assumption that they wouldn't be opening until sometime in 2012. If I have a TJ's here by Christmas, I hope they have a good supply of their peppermint bark!

[peppergal]

YES! (to a good supply of their peppermint bark)!

[foiegras]

Wow ... thanks for the news. Will be interesting to see how Central Market handles the competition ...

[peppergal]

Yes, especially since they're in such close proximity to each other. Any effect on CM's pricing? There was some talk earlier that they might go into the now-closed Borders, just across the parking lot. Now, that would've been fun!