Stater Bros. Markets — Local services in Encinitas

Absolutely Worth the Drive – Clean, Fresh, and Outstanding Service!

I drive over 20 miles to shop at this location bypassing a closer grocery store at Bressi Ranch because the difference in quality, cleanliness, and customer service is night and day.

From the moment you arrive, you can tell this team takes pride in their work. Even the grocery carts are always neatly gathered and perfectly lined up, a small detail that makes a big impression. The sidewalks and store entrance are spotless, and once inside, the store is immaculate. Everything is well-organized, the aisles are clear, and the produce is incredibly fresh,you can see and taste the difference.

The deli staff are exceptional,they went out of their way to prepare fresh, warm chicken just for my family’s dinner. Above and beyond! The butcher section is equally impressive—the meats are always fresh, well-cut, and the area is clean and professional.

It’s rare to find a store where every team member, down to the cart attendant, contributes to such a consistently great experience. This location has set a high standard, and it shows in every visit.

Thank you to the entire team, this is what a grocery...

DO NOT SHOP HERE! Moldy Chocolates & Abusive Staff I purchased Lindt chocolates at Stater Bros in another store on November 3, 2025. When I opened the package at home, the chocolates were covered in grey and green mold — completely unsafe and disgusting.I went to the Encinitas store (1070 N El Camino Real) to return them according to the corporate return policy. The employee Maria (approx. 65 years old) was extremely rude, loud, and verbally abusive. She refused the return, shouted at me, and treated me like a criminal. She was visibly dirty, with food residue around her mouth and dirt under her fingernails completely unacceptable in any food-handling environment.Then she called ahead to the Carlsbad store (2687 Gateway Rd) to instruct them not to process my return. When I arrived there, the manager was already waiting to deny me. This is coordinated retaliation and harassment.I was humiliated, emotionally stressed, and endangered by these stores. Do NOT buy anything here. Corporate must intervene immediately. Moldy food, abusive staff, and retaliation — this is dangerous...

Joel is truly a one of a kind Manager whom also has an assistant manager I think named Ryan who just go hand in hand with positive attitude and demeanor. I cannot brag on this place enough as I’m here at least three times a week for small items. Atmosphere and customer service is everything these days and the personalization of what they provide means the difference from e-commerce shopping and in person shopping. They make me want the personalization as they always leave us smiling with good vibes and hope for human decency. I would love to shout out Dawn, Magali, Cristo and Ksenia as well and if you see this, you would know us by our red card shopping and the L.A hats. You all are the best and thank you for always uplifting us and you make shopping for groceries worth it. Everything is fresh, priced to beat the local area and worth the smiles you see here. Thank you all and the employees love...