Giovanni's Produce & Grocery — Attraction in El Cerrito

They do not like kids and the cashier has a bad attitude. My Coworker and I brought our eight students to shop here today because it was part of our summer camp activity. The store is small so we all did our best to stay out of the way. I did not like that when we got in line, a customer complained about kids being in the store. We were all well behaved and respectful. The grumpy cashier with a beanie went along with the discriminatory conversation and it made us all feel unwelcome. I hate seeing adults act mean towards children. They are humans too! We didn't know we were going to cause so much "trouble" shopping at this store. I felt so uncomfortable that I decided to ask the cashier what was the problem? And why does it feel like kids are not allowed in here? The cashier said that "technically a certain amount are not allowed at a time", but the only time I have ever heard that is when kids are by themselves or in large groups of friends, not when they are with two adults providing supervision at all times. It was our second week visiting with kids too and no one ever mentioned anything about kids not being allowed. The cashier is a rude guy and was bitter towards us. We were trying to teach the kids about supporting small business but it's not worth being disrespected and discriminated. Kids have rights too. And we spent a good amount of money there because of those great kids. Do not bring a small group of kids or it "bothers them". The customer service...

This was a convenient little produce market before the pandemic, an old and locally owned establishment that it felt good to support. But WOW did they rise to the occasion when folks stopped wanting to visit the bigger grocery stores! They have so much stuff now! They’re close to being a one-stop shop — only missing a butcher counter. But they have SO MANY STAPLES, plus fresh Acme (and also shipments lately from a Point Richmond bakery that makes a mean sourdough!) and amazing local pies, pastries, and galettes. Also, some really nice and reasonably priced produce, organic as well as non-. Also if you’re into Italian cuisine, they’ve got some great imports. They also keep expanding their wine/beer/alcohol selection. If it isn’t already obvious,,I just love this place — and everyone who works there is friendly and helpful, which makes it...

The staff was delightful, and there's a GREAT produce selection. There are melons there I don't see anywhere else, and this fruit bat appreciates it! Not many toiletries, go here for unbruised fresh fruit and veggies, as well as all other good staples (bean, rice, corn, bread, etc). I would comment that I'd appreciate a selection of butchered meats, but Chef Rene serves up fresh-grilled bbq outside the storefront on Saturdays and Sundays. The hot links were delicious, and his homemade bbq sauce isn't for the faint of heart. Next weekend I plan to make greens, yams, beans & rice,and pick up some bbq to dish it all up with. Highly...