2 CA Grocery Store Chains Make List Of Nation's Best

There are hundreds of grocery store chains across the United States, but only 10 of them made USA Today's list. The select few were nominated by an expert panel and chosen by readers.

Though California is home to the largest chains in the country, just two of the chains on the list have locations in California: Aldi at No. 7, and Gelson's Market at No. 6. The markets fall on each end of the shopping spectrum. Aldi is prized for its no-frills affordability, while Gelson's is known for its gourmet but pricey foods.

Discount grocer Aldi boasts a no-frills shopping experience that keeps prices low. The stores also restock fresh fruits and vegetables every day and feature a liberal return policy known as the "Twice As Nice Guarantee," according to the survey. Aldi has 109 stores in California.

Gelson's, which bills itself as SoCal's gourmet food market and deli, is know for it's high-end grocery shopping experience. Shoppers at its 28 stores ranging from San Diego County to the north end of Los Angeles County, will find spacious aisles, artful displays, and high-quality produce and meat departments for making gourmet home meals.

"With more than 25 stores from Calabasas to West Hollywood, don't be surprised if you see a celebrity or two picking up a plant-based dinner for two, a bouquet of lilies, and some organic olives," USA Today noted.

Here's the full top 10 list:

1. The Fresh Market
2. Hy-Vee
3. Fresh Thyme Market
4. Natural Grocers
5. Stew Leonard's
6. Gelson's Market
7. Heinen's Grocery Store
8. Publix Super Markets
9. Wegmans Food Markets

Check out the full article at USA Today 10Best.