This was my first time visiting the store, as I don't live in the area. However, I went because I needed to grab a couple of things. No big deal and I shouldn't have to second guess going to a bodega... right? Wrong, apparently. I went and immediately noticed the many flies and fruit flies surrounding the produce. I know it's NYC but come on, like this is ridiculous. I didn't pick up any because the flies were a dead giveaway for how quick the food would expire. But imagine, this wasn't the root of my uncomfortable and unpleasant experience at this store. I was followed from the moment I stepped in, but I didn't notice it right away. However, the workers made it very obvious after a while that they were watching/trailing me and that they would not let me breathe until I checked out. I thought about leaving, but then I remembered that I actually had a few things that I wanted/needed to pick up. And sure, I didn't want to give my money to an establishment that clearly doesn't want me there or thinks that I'm up to no good. But that's more of a reflection on the establishment and workers, and not me. They clearly have a whole operation set up at this place, because as soon as I made it to the register, then the men breathing down my neck finally decided that they had other better things to do... or maybe another Black person had walked in and they had to go intimidate them. I hope it's obvious that I won't be returning, and if this review stays up long enough for others to see, then hopefully y'all consider shopping elsewhere because of the reasons I explained above. Mr. Kiwi's do better! Sad that you have the name of one of my favorite fruits, but you're not...
Read moreSolid selection of reasonably priced gourmet products. Discrete but efficient service. Really nice choice of super fresh produce in organic and non organic options. With Mr Kiwi, Mr Piña, Mr Mango, and Mr Lemon in the neighborhood, there is no reason not to cook nor eat balanced and tasty homemade dishes. They could use an upgrade in the cheese section where the selection still needs work. The yogurt and creams are minimal, which might be because of reduced available space. The breads department could also use better quality products : the artisanal pita was replaced by a boring industrial one, and none of the breads are worth of interest, which is inconsistent with the higher quality offered by the store. Wonderful job on the coffee, teas, jams, honey, olive oils, gourmet or spicy sauces, pastas, olives, jarred goods, spices, etc. The overall selection has nothing to envy to Whole Foods and is superior to Trader Joe's. I have not tried the juices, but I am puzzled at the lack of mint in the fresh herbs : something amazing is obviously missing for those fresh juices. The stores are open 24/7 and saved me so many times. Thank you for being there for people like me in a high traffic but...
Read moreI LOVE Mr. Kiwi's. Throughout the shutdown I've been going here to get a majority of my grocery from Kiwi's, and they've somehow been able to maintain being open for 24 hours a day. This has really made it less stressful for me and I know it must be hard on them, and I just wanted to say I really appreciate it! Their prices on produce are excellent, and cashiers are really nice. Only downsides are that its small (wasn't as much of a downside before, but if you are trying to social distance, keep it in mind and go during off hours!) and other products besides produce can be kinda pricey. But it is a really great place, don't know what I would...
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