10/11/05

A well-stocked wine section and a stellar deli are the standouts at this fancy food store.

by Contributor

The Scene
Stylish matrons and well-heeled cooks stroll the aisles at Draeger's, looking for just the right exotic vegetable to complete that latest Saveur recipe. Upstairs at the Menlo Park location is a world of cookware (including LaForme and All Clad), cookbooks, tabletop designs and party goods. There's also a wedding registry.

The Goods
Lavish and sparkling, this is gourmet nirvana with shopping carts. The deli boasts volumes of cheeses and meats, and every aisle is rife with culinary arcana (such as apricot-stuffed olives, fig butter and double Devon cream). From tulips to tropical, the florist's fare is fragrant and fecund. The wine section is extensive, with old and rare vintages stocked as a matter of course. In the bakery, you'll find daring dessert creations like mango mousse and sky-high fruit tarts. Prices are not for the faint of heart, and the store remains focused on the gilded palate.

11/14/02

excellent selection

by scottjames

Yes, Draegers is expensive, but when I started comparing actual prices, Safeway was the same price on most items at a far lower quality. Draeger's quality and selection is second to none. Meat is superb.

• Pros: Quality, Selection, No disappointments
• Cons: Expensive