Salem's Market — Local services in Pittsburgh

This has got to be the best grocery store in Pittsburgh, if not in all of western PA. The store was clean, well-organized, and well staffed, with a big parking lot.

The produce was lovely and fresh, with some cool, unusual, and healthy items (many different kinds of sprouts, sea moss). The meat selection was excellent, as it is a halal butchery, and the prices were truly fantastic. Esp chicken wings, which have been pricey lately. There is a prominently featured conventional/American dairy section but if you head towards the frozen stuff, there's an expanded ethnic dairy section with many many different kinds of cheeses and yogurt. The center aisles had the good American brand names interspersed with many, many different, delightful, and special items from all over the world. Probably 50 different kinds of rice and so many different kinds of pickles. Don't even get me started on the bakery section: their baked goods easily rival those found in Dearborn, MI. The pastry assortment that I selected was fresh and lovingly made (and packaged). As you'd expect, their prepared foods were also awesome.

Overall, the prices were excellent and the selection is truly out of this world. I sound crazy when I say that this grocery store has changed my life. Maybe that's an exaggeration, but it certainly has changed my experience of living in Pittsburgh for the better.

I am so grateful for Salem's wonderful expansion into a neighborhood (and city) that needs and deserves a locally owned grocery store that provides healthy food to all of our neighbors, from near and far.

PS. Soapbox moment: long time ago, Mr. Salem was very kind to me when I was extremely poor and scrounging enough money to buy a few small groceries to get me through the month; I will never ever forget that kindness. In this city where most of us have a choice between either shopping at a criminally overpriced store owned by a billionaire's worldwide conglomerate or a bird-shaped regional monopoly known for its price gouging, I encourage my neighbors to patronize a business that is owned by a local family who, from what I can tell, truly exemplifies what I believe to be the American dream: hard work, entrepreneurship, and service to their community. New Pittsburgh...

Salem’s Market emerges as a vital lifeline in the heart of the Hill District, a community grappling with the harsh reality of being a food desert. Nestled amidst the scarcity of food options, Salem’s stands tall as an oasis, offering a diverse array of groceries to its residents. This establishment addresses a critical need, countering the prevalence of overcharging and the unsettling practice of selling items sourced from local food banks—a practice that sadly plagues many convenience stores in the vicinity, perpetuating the cycle of hardship for the already marginalized.

Stepping into Salem’s Market is akin to stepping into a haven. The ambiance is refreshing—a testament to the meticulous attention paid to cleanliness and space. It's not merely a store; it's a promise of sustenance and dignity for a community long deprived of both. While Salem’s is still in its nascent stage, there's a palpable sense of potential, a promise of growth and evolution that mirrors the resilience of the community it serves.

However, amidst the accolades, there lies a shadow of concern—a lingering unease born out of an observation made during a recent visit. It's disconcerting to note the apparent surplus of surveillance within the premises. While vigilance is necessary to ensure security and prevent losses, the extent of monitoring raises questions about privacy and trust. The presence of individuals masquerading as customers but covertly surveilling shoppers adds a layer of discomfort, detracting from the otherwise welcoming atmosphere.

Despite this, it's essential to contextualize Salem’s Market within the broader narrative of community empowerment. Its existence signifies progress—a beacon of hope illuminating the path towards a more equitable future. While it may fall short of a perfect rating due to legitimate concerns, its significance transcends mere numerical evaluations. Salems Market is not just a store; it's a symbol of resilience, solidarity, and the enduring spirit of a community determined to thrive...

First timer yesterday (7-25-2024). My rate is a 4.8 all day, everyday. Helllllll yeah. You cannot go wrong here for ANY of your grocery needs. This is a "woke" spot, meaning they don't do 🐷🐖 swine products of ANY kind, and I love it. Grabbed up a 15 pound pack of beef back ribs and a 5 pound bag of whiting for a fish fest come Sunday. Beef ribs at $3.00 dollars a pound is a steal, frozen and very meaty.

The deli is the highlight. I was taken care of by a beautiful sista that had mad knowledge of her station and even let my brother and I sampled before we bought, with an EXCELLENT attitude. Definitely be back for the deli game.

The ONLY flaw at this time of their transition is the hot foods. This location doesn't have the excellence in the kitchen game like the Strip spot. I think it's for the time being cause their CMU campus spot has waaaaay better food than the Hill spot.

This Hill market alone beats up on Shop n Save, Kuhn's and many non Market District stores so shop here with confidence. If you eat that tainted, tapeworm infested swine🐷🐖 and its by-products, this place is ABSOLUTELY NOT for you. Great market, great customer services and great products will make this a competing staple in the Pittsburgh area for decades,...