Eli's Market 1415 3rd Avenue, Manhattan, New York,

"Prices are of course ridiculous, but the sticking point is rude staff. Accosted my wife for sitting on the first floor with a stroller, as though she was supposed to carry it up the stairs."

"A very well curated and organized high-end grocery store, a true treat to visit. Higher prices justified by high quality of produce and expert selection of products in a neat location."

"Great for a TINY treat, but too expensive for all your grocery needs. Yes, zabar’s is very pricey, but I find it wonderful for small treats or a little special occasion gift. They had a sandwich section, a bakery, an ice cream bar, a wine store and a flower shops. My favorite thing to get there as an end-of-week treat is the rustic apple pie. Theirs is actually the best applie pie in Manhattan, as far as I’m concerned. The almond croissants are also sensational."

"I made sourdough starter from this flour and it has been *flourishing*. Definitely try this flour if you’re looking to make sourdough starter! The market itself is a little pricey, but the quality of the food is really good. It was fairly well-stocked when I went, as well. I also highly recommend the wine shop. I talked to the employee to get recommendations based on my tastes — all the wines I purchased were delicious!"

"While you can find Eli's Market elsewhere in New York City, perhaps most notably in Grand Central, at their marketplace, I believe this is their flagship. Yes, they are expensive. Me being cheap Japanese, I have to admit that some of their products, value to price ratio isn’t that high, for some like their chickens. However, some of their products, are TOP notch, and read that as world class. They even offer Mishima Rerserve from Seattle. (Mishima Beef from Japan, is not the same, and is extremely rare even in Tokyo, I think the farm slaughters only a few cows a year). Their bakery products are so great that you see them even at different supermarket such as Whole Foods. And PLEASE do yourself a favor, and explore their cheese section. Darn,,, Good. One that’s my favorite, is called “Brie Truffle” from France, yes, the price is up there (if I remember, some like $45/lb, maybe $49/lb?, somewhere around there), and yes, the value well justifies the price. And their people. From those who work at the cheese section to wine department, is happy to share their knowledge. They surely serve customers with their principles. It’s one of the places in the City where, every time you visit, you feel like there is something you can learn about what you like."