The Broadway Deli & Grocery 9 The Broadway, Woodford, Woodford Green IG8 0HL

"Having read the glorious reviews about this Specialist store it gives me no pleasure to share my experience. I visited the Broadway Deli & Grocery store as I was new to the area and upon entering I heard extremely loud chatting in the background amongst two males whose purpose in the store I was perplexed by as they seem to be just standing there watching customers enter and leave the store. Upon each customer leaving the store I heard an Irish accent say goodbye. I doubt they were security!! Whilst perusing the store I was asked by a white British male whether I needed any assistance whilst walking around which I found intrusive. The Italian female check-out Assistant came across as overly friendly to customers even asking me whether I needed any assistance even though she was behind a till. All in all I found it difficult to concentrate with the atmosphere in this store. However, I did return on the 22 December 2022 to make a purchase. Upon entering the store this time I noticed a young boy sitting by the window. He was not drinking coffee!! Again I heard extremely loud chatting in the background and saw a tall Italian male literally parading around the store holding hands with a young girl introducing her to the customers as his niece. I thought whose interested!!! I found it extremely hard to focus as he seemed to be drawing attention to himself. I picked up two items ready for payment and as I waited in the queue the same Italian male came up to me and asked was I happy with my items. (Ironically I thought he might as I had expected it!). He then placed the items on the check-out desk and told the assistant at the till who the items belonged to. The assistant placed the items in a bag along with a miniature token chocolate bar and wished me a Merry Christmas. That same evening at home I felt a presence. Having looked at the photos the tall Italian male must be Jan."

"It’s been open a few years now and the owner (Jan) has made it such a special shop to visit. He and the rest of his staff always make an effort to welcome anyone coming in, creating a warm atmosphere whether you want to shop and/or enjoy a delicious tea or coffee. It’s as much a community hub as a great place to find lovely treats to buy."

"This is an exceptional shop or should I say destination. People don't just go to the shop to buy things. It's a learning experience. The staff can provide so much information and if you're not sure what you need they can advise you. I love that they don't just try to sell you their most expensive stock. They genuinely listen to your needs and then make a series of recommendations, often suggesting a cheaper product that will give you sufficient introduction to the flavours or preparation methods and count on developing a proper rewarding relationship with you so some day you might get to the highest quality products yourself or not, if it doesn't work for you. I can't stop by without getting a cup of their incredible hot chocolate, which I don't usually drink anywhere else. Their stock ranges from eco friendly to vegan friendly to palate friendly, regardless of your beliefs. Whether it is the finest Italian chocolates, Spanish honey (by plant), Greek olive oil or British cheese, you will find it here. It's not cheap but it's definitely quality. I prefer to treat myself from time to time with less of something exceptional. The wine selection is second to none and again, many of their most recommended bottles are not that expensive and certainly much better value than the same price points at a supermarket. I don't go here very often because I live on the other side of London but I will make a special journey to go a few times per year. It's absolutely worth the effort."

"I absolutely love this Deli! They have a great selection of healthy and organic products, the best coffee in the area and an outstanding collection of fine wines from around the world. I have tried pretty much everything they offer and not once, was I let down. Every single product that makes it on the shelf has been tried by the team and is of high quality. The staff and the owner are incredibly helpful, positive, cheerful people and always happy to offer some good recommendations. Couldn't recommend this place more! Just brilliant!"

"Such a lovely little store! Everyone who works here is really kind and helpful. They stock lots of vegan options (mock meats, cheeses, chocolates, ice cream, pastries, etc) including the most delicious pain au chocolate and some really great artisan hot sauces (I'm a big fan of the Condimaniac Smokey Dragon). Well worth a visit!"