How is Publix?

[Tomh]

Looks like Wal Mart is going to be the main source for us, really only interested in bread, breakfast stuff, and peanut butter / jelly (well, actually Polaner All Fruit, but same concept)

LOTS of AWESOME input and information here though, I can't even begin to thank you all enough!

 

[bankr63]

There was one I didn't like as much --- sorry I don't remember the address!

Possibly 192 at 535 (Irlo Bronson and S. Apopka Vineland). That is the one I would rate a bit lower. Same stuff, but an older store, a bit cramped and a bit tired.

 

[quagmire0]

At one point, Publix had the best prices. But once the SuperTarget and Walmart moved in, they kind of fell behind.

 

[aquabone1109]

Publix hands down. I would not step foot in a Walmart or Win-Dixie. One thing you must try at publix is a sandwich....especially the Chicken tender sandwich. They also have prepped meats and rotisserie chickens along with great fried chickens.

 

[glassslippergirl]

We will be staying in an embassy suites with a refrigerator and microwave. Breakfast is included and we will be having one meal in the park. I would like to have one meal in the room cheaply. What are public pre made meals like? Would this be a good option for a family of 3?

Publix's slogan is "Where shopping is a pleasure," and they live up to the claim. OP, you've indicated that you'll be going to Walmart. Just consider that for sandwiches, Publix offers Boar's Head cold cuts, which are about as good as it gets and often a healthier alternative. You pay the tiniest bit more, but nothing compared to Disney counter service.

Publix's meats are higher quality than Walmart, plenty of selection for grilling. They also sell prepped meats, like chicken flavored with lemon pepper, marinated beef, etc , which on vacation can save you by not having to buy seasonings. Just put it on the grill.The fish counter is offering a service where you choose your fish and your flavoring; they prep everything, and put it in a container that you just put in the oven. Again, on vacation that can save you money and time.

The Publix deli is fabulous! You can get rotisserie and fried chickens, mojo pork, wings, etc. all ready to eat. There's plenty of salads to choose as sides (macaroni, potato, etc). There's also hot sides like Mac and cheese and potato wedges. I always find the prices reasonable for a quality meal. The subs are to die for, too. Save money by ordering a whole sub and splitting.

To save money at Publix, buy the generic Publix brand. It is considerably cheaper and at the same quality level as name brands-- no matter what item you're talking about. I've tried Great Value from Walmart and the Kroger/Winn Dixie generics, and I'm always disappointed. Once I buy the name brand at Walmart, I'm at the same price as the generic at Publix, so I've learned through a lot of trial and error that Publix is a better value in the long run, and I avoid Walmart's insane lines around the, invariably, two open registers.

If you haven't tried it before, seriously treat yourself to a carton of Publix ice cream! That and the Publix brand fat free blueberry yogurt, I don't think I want to live without.

 

[JimMIA]

Publix's slogan is "Where shopping is a pleasure," and they live up to the claim. OP, you've indicated that you'll be going to Walmart. Just consider that for sandwiches, Publix offers Boar's Head cold cuts, which are about as good as it gets and often a healthier alternative. You pay the tiniest bit more, but nothing compared to Disney counter service.

Publix's meats are higher quality than Walmart, plenty of selection for grilling. They also sell prepped meats, like chicken flavored with lemon pepper, marinated beef, etc , which on vacation can save you by not having to buy seasonings. Just put it on the grill.The fish counter is offering a service where you choose your fish and your flavoring; they prep everything, and put it in a container that you just put in the oven. Again, on vacation that can save you money and time.

The Publix deli is fabulous! You can get rotisserie and fried chickens, mojo pork, wings, etc. all ready to eat. There's plenty of salads to choose as sides (macaroni, potato, etc). There's also hot sides like Mac and cheese and potato wedges. I always find the prices reasonable for a quality meal. The subs are to die for, too. Save money by ordering a whole sub and splitting.

To save money at Publix, buy the generic Publix brand. It is considerably cheaper and at the same quality level as name brands-- no matter what item you're talking about. I've tried Great Value from Walmart and the Kroger/Winn Dixie generics, and I'm always disappointed. Once I buy the name brand at Walmart, I'm at the same price as the generic at Publix, so I've learned through a lot of trial and error that Publix is a better value in the long run, and I avoid Walmart's insane lines around the, invariably, two open registers.

If you haven't tried it before, seriously treat yourself to a carton of Publix ice cream! That and the Publix brand fat free blueberry yogurt, I don't think I want to live without.

Agree on the Publix brand items. I didn't try them for years, but once I did I've never been disappointed. In some cases (frozen Buttermilk waffles vs. Eggos Buttermilk Waffles), I even prefer the Publix brand. And the Publix Premium ice cream is truly better than many of the "name" brands.

 

[MolonLabe]

Publix is probably the best supermarket in the world.. or at least in the USA. You cannot beat their deli / bakery / meats / produce / seafood sections in any supermarket type setting.

Comparing it walmart's food section is like comparing Target and K-Mart. You really can't... not with a broad brush anyway.

Publix is like a typical supermarket when it comes to prices. Regular prices can be higher than walmarts prices. Sale prices will beat walmarts every day prices. Therein lies the rub, if you must have "Foot Loops" then walmart may be a better bet if Publix has Apple Jacks on sale instead and you can't deviate and you can't wait for next weeks sales.

For anything fresh I'd choose Publix in a heart beat. Canned / boxed? It doesn't really matter if you can stand to buy kellogs over general mills depending which is on sale.

For us we go straight to Publix and if the food bill is 10% or even 20% higher than Walmart it is what it is. It's not like we are shopping for the month, it's a week and usually only spend about $100 to $150 anyway. The $15 we *might* overpay (depending on the sales) is worth it to not have to fight the longer lines and crowds at wally world because we always buy fresh fruit for the room (snacks in the AM and evening) and you can't beat Publix for their freshness when compared to walmart.

Also Publix store brand is head and shoulders over walmarts. No comparison.

*Also keep in mind some things are relative. As an example: Milk here in the midwest is $2.50 a gallon almost everywhere. Milk in Florida costs more everywhere, not just at Publix.

 

[writerguyfl]

Publix is like a typical supermarket when it comes to prices. Regular prices can be higher than walmarts prices. Sale prices will beat walmarts every day prices. Therein lies the rub, if you must have "Foot Loops" then walmart may be a better bet if Publix has Apple Jacks on sale instead and you can't deviate and you can't wait for next weeks sales.

Mmmm...Foot Loops! haha

When I saw this thread, this was the exact point I was going make. Publix can have some great bargains as long as you are a bit flexible. With a lot of categories, there usually is one brand that is buy-1-get-1 free. If you or your kid only eat Pringles, you might be out of luck. But, if you are okay with Pringles, Lays, Cape Cod, or Doritos, you will certainly find one of those items for sale.

 

[DaisyDuck001]

Several people mentioned on this thread that there are many good offsite restaurants. I know it's a tangent from the Publix question, but for those who brought up offsite restaurants near WDW, which ones are your favorites?

 

[mrzrich]

Since you are staying by 27/192 I need to ask you if you are aware of the Black Lake Road back way onto Disney property. Its a major headache saver.

 

[ruby33]

We always go to Publix. Better quality produce. Can't stand the lines at Walmart- haven't been to the Target. We have subs at least twice-boars head products-while on vacation. Another must have is the Key Lime Pie. It was on sale when we were there last!! We stock up on breakfast items, snacks, drinks. Have had many Publix brand items too. I usually check the flyer for the week we will be there. I think of it as vacation and waaaay cheaper than eating in the parks !! A glass of wine out on the balcony-priceless!

 

[bovioask1]

Publix is great, clean, higher quality meat. As ruby said, the Key Lime Pie is definitely a must if your a pie fan Also, if you like subs....can't beat Publix subs, great price for amazing quality and taste.

 

[My2CrazyGirls]

We will be there soon and making a Publix stop!

Are the subs made to order only or do they have them grab and go?

Is the chicken hot or do they have some cold fried chicken grab and go?

 

[mrzrich]

We will be there soon and making a Publix stop!

Are the subs made to order only or do they have them grab and go?

Is the chicken hot or do they have some cold fried chicken grab and go?

They have both made to order and grab and go subs. They also have hot and cold chicken.

If you want to "grab and go" a custom sub made just for you, consider downloading the Publix App onto your phone. They have an online order feature. You can customize your sandwiches and have them waiting for you when you arrive to the store.

 

[Woodview]

Several people mentioned on this thread that there are many good offsite restaurants. I know it's a tangent from the Publix question, but for those who brought up offsite restaurants near WDW, which ones are your favorites?

If you go towards Animal Kingdom ( Osceola Parkway ) ..... then head onto Hwy 192 & Turn Right heading West towards Hwy 27.

There are several . ... Olive Garden, Longhorn , Texas Grill , Miller's Ale House ... The new Manny's etc

And Publix & Target ,

All within 15 to 20 min of Disney Springs

 

[My2CrazyGirls]

They have both made to order and grab and go subs. They also have hot and cold chicken.

If you want to "grab and go" a custom sub made just for you, consider downloading the Publix App onto your phone. They have an online order feature. You can customize your sandwiches and have them waiting for you when you arrive to the store.

Thank you for the reply and the suggestion about the app, that is awesome!

 

[HM2012Butler]

Living in Orlando I do all my grocery shopping at Publix. I avoid stores like Walmart at all costs. There is not such thing as low crowd times at walmart. Publix is the way to go.

 

[Woodview]

HM2012Butler

Have you tried any of the Aldi supermarkets yet.?

And Lidil are on their way.

 

[lvstitch]

Pubsubs are the best and you can pre-order them on-line and just go pick them up. Even when staying on property we always get one...or two.

 

[samsteele]

If you really only want the basics, then Walmart prices are much better. However, Publix has to die for take out food. Their fried chicken is incredible and a decent price. Their subs are also worth the trip.