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The following are comments recently placed on local blog sites where customers share comments about our stores. Some comments have been edited slightly for sake of brevity, or to protect the good name of our worthy competitors.
Kelly C.
10/08/2007
5 star rating
This is a place I would go substantially out of my way for. I remember around Christmas time I wanted to make Limoncello. They had huge, gorgeous, ripe, perfect lemons on sale for 12/$1. Are you kidding? This place is amazing. It's known for it's outstanding deli, but I’m not a fan of those cold meats.
The produce spans different origins and cultural interests. The aisles are broken down by ethnicity somewhat. They also have great plants outside, and in the spring and summer, wonderful fresh herbs! The quality is above your average market, but the price is much cheaper.
My must haves there are frozen pizza dough, croissants, bulk nuts and dried herbs, and unusual products that you can't conveniently find anywhere else.
Eric H.
09/18/2007
5 star rating
I love this place. Freshest produce. Best prices. Great variety. Awesome deli. Great hard to find items (e.g., my wife's favorite chocolate: Milka (chocolate bar) with Hazelnuts). I wish it was closer to my house, I would do ALL my grocery shopping here.
Jessica D.
09/02/2007
4 star rating
Very, very nice Italian American grocer that carries an excellent variety of fresh produce, as well as dried and packaged goods--particularly the ethnic aisles and Italian imports. Special finds include obleas (cookies) and glories in the Mexican aisle, and chinotto (Italian soft drink) and estathe (fruit flavored tea drink) in the Italian aisle. Excellent dolmas-in-a-can (stuffed grape leaves) in the Middle Eastern and/or Greek isles.
Great deli area with all kinds of pre-made items ready to eat, as well as dairy products and cold cuts.
The hugest pasta and olive oil aisles I've ever seen. Good prices all around.
Kristin G.
07/29/2007
4 star rating
LOVE IT! I live blocks from this location and walk over. Yes, parking sucks, yes, it gets busy but their prices are good, their produce is much better than what I find at (Chain A or Chain B) and their meat is great!
Ralph E.
July 21, 2007
5 star rating
Great Selections, Great Prices Caputo's in Hanover Park is a great shopping experience and enjoy shopping at this store when we are in Hanover Park. Formerly a resident a Hanover Park Now Spring Hill Florida. Please bring Caputo's to Spring Hill ,FL.
P.S. Your Bakery Products are SIX STAR over all store Five Star
Amaliya L.
07/10/2007
3 star rating
I am a huge sucker for Italian foods and markets. Their prices are pretty decent/ cheap, and they have a huge selection of produce, pre-made antipasta, and incredible Italian desserts. They have a huge aisle devoted to tomato products and olive oils. What I don't like about this place is that it's always crowded, space is limited, and the parking situation is terrible.
Brenda S.
07/07/2007
5 star rating
I LOVE THIS SUPERMARKET! Haven't found any store with the freshest top quality produce, herbs, meat in Chicago! Also, in the middle of the store there's a awesome Italian bakery and coffee bar - Parking is available, beware if you like to shop in a quite, spacious store, this is NOT for you - Caputo's is always crowded and loud.
LaLaLaLa L.
07/07/2007
5 star rating
They have the best produce in the city!! and VERY reasonably priced.
But my favorite part is that they play old hits (like frank Sinatra, etc) and replace the word to "Caputos". Ex: My kind of town, Chicago is.... changed to My kind of store, Caputos is.
PURE COMEDY
Lauren G.
07/07/2007
5 star rating
Great selection for a grocery store.
Anny M.
05/29/2007
5 star rating
My only complaint about Caputo's is that it's too far for me to make it my regular grocery store.
The produce is outstanding, in both quality and price. On a visit, a couple of months ago, (Chain A and Chain B) were both advertising grapefruit at $1/lb. Caputo's price was $.39/lb, and the grapefruit were juicy and delicious.
The deli is simply wonderful -- a huge selection with prices that have to be seen to be believed. I've bought a pound of salami for what a half-pound costs at the other stores. Prosciutto is priced here low enough it can be an everyday purchase instead of a "special occasion" buy.
Terrific bakery, too.
Chiara F.
05/23/2007
5 star rating
Oh Caputo's,
I met you for the first time when I was a wee baby. I lived right by your Addison location, and my Italian family was more than loyal to you. I grew up on your food, up until my parents got divorced and went their separate ways, away from you.
I lived on mediocre Jewel and Dominick's food for many years until I moved to Chicago. One day, I fondly thought about you and decided to do research. I was VERY pleasantly surprised to find out that you're right by the city!
Our reunion a couple of years ago was very magical. I walked in and inhaled the familiar childhood smell I'd missed out on for many years. I was like a kid in a candy store, running all over the place grabbing fresh produce, fresh bakery goods, nutella (chocolate spread), Italian bread, and packages of delicious biscotti.
And the prices!! Everything is so cheap and I always get my money's worth. Oh, Caputo's. I really, really appreciate your presence, as well as your shoppers'. I got hit by a big nostalgia stick when I saw all these old Italian ladies dragging their grumbling husbands and pouting kids in the pasta section, a young Greek couple arguing about if they should get prosciutto or ham, and independent grocers checking out the quality of the tomatoes. Please, please open a location within the city boundaries. It will be very appreciated!
Megan L.
04/04/2007
5 star rating
Based on the yelp reviews I read I trekked out here after work yesterday - never been to this neck of the woods before - it's different! I wasn't expecting the store to be so huge - no worries about running out of anything. And it's very clean - no dead cow smell. They have white asparagus, big artichokes, and fennel - you don't see those at (Chain A). The olive oil is what I came for since I make pesto all the time - got 3 quarts for 12 bucks. That should last me a while. I'll be back!
Cindy G.
03/16/2007
4 star rating
Excellent produce selection, deli and cheese selection. Also their prices are excellent. The negatives are yes, it does get crowded. Also, they don't have a huge frozen food selection. They are very limited in their Lean Cuisines (which I take to lunch) and their ice cream. These negatives are minor to me - you can get great produce at great prices, and the cost is always impressively low. This is a great neighborhood grocery store and I go there more often than any other.
Amina F.
02/20/2007
4 star rating
I go here religiously because of their wide variety of fresh fruits and vegetables and no one can beat their prices. I usually come out with a cart full of groceries for the entire month for less than 100 dollars.
Christina A.
01/31/2007
5 star rating
'Caputo's, Caputo's my favorite store'. . . That's what their trademarked song sings to a Frank Sinatra theme over their speakers and it couldn't say it any better.
'A funny thing happened to me on the way to the produce section'. . . One time while my mom was visiting from Midland, TX I took her to Caputo's because she usually doesn't get THIS kind of grocery shopping experience. Being that she is a complete foodie she went nuts in the store, actually stopping people to ask what they were going to do with all the stuff in their cart, hey she's from TX - she talks a lot. . . you have to love her.
The entire time we kept hearing the usual Frank/Dean/Rat Pack music playing overhead but it seemed almost live. As we made our way to the produce section the music seemed almost like a concert. Hmm. . . did we drink too much wine last night? I asked myself.
It was at that moment that we turned from the glorious homemade sausages into the produce section and there he was. 'He' being the man singing all those Rat Pack songs in the middle of the produce section with his portable electric piano. I cocked my head and at that moment realized I must have drank too much Lynfred wine the night before and at that very moment my mom screamed in glee, 'oh my God, this is so cool!'. Welcome to Caputo's.
Caputo's motto is 'If we don't have it you don't need it'. Well if they have a live musician in their produce section they surely have what most stores don't. Kudos Caputo's. . . kudos.
Karen A.
01/31/2007
5 star rating
You can buy four times the produce here than at whole paycheck, er...(Natural Foods Grocer).
This is where the little old Italian women shop with their babushkas on, where you can buy a dozen or more different gallons of imported olive oil cheap, where the parmigiana selection is as great as the prosciutto choices, the pasta picks, and the imported canned tomatoes, Italian candies, and other good stuff is plentiful.
This is a great old time Italian market where you shop among peasants, immigrants, Chicago restaurateurs and other colorful locals. An old school shoppers dream. Great prices too.
Deb S.
01/08/2007
5 star rating
Went this past week to check it out... They have a TON of stuff! Definitely worth the trip. Also noticed that they have a website too. Check it out: www.shopcaputos.com
Marc A.
12/07/2006
5 star rating
Hands down one of the best large Italian Stores in the area, well worth the drive for me. Not only is the produce fresh and in-expensive, they have excellent Italian Sausage. My grandmother made Italian sausage for years and the one and only rule was you cut the meat (pork) with a knife, you don't grind it. It gets all gritty if you do, Caputo's cuts the pork for their sausage with knives, which is rare these days.
Patty V.
10/27/2006
5 star rating
The all time best place for fresh veggies and fruit, as well as hard to find specialty items. It gets a little nutty on a Saturday (way crowded)., but worth it for all the variety and selection. Elmwood Park location is great too, now that parking lot has expanded. Great prices and you have to see the baked goods! Go ahead, get a tiramisu-you've been good!
Jesster A.
10/18/2006
5 star rating
Everyone is reading my mind this morning! I woke up thinking (dreaming) about Caputo's and bemoaning the fact that there are no location even remotely near here. I actually fantasize about this place.
(Last year we went to a pizza-making demonstration and came home as Fat and Happy as we could possibly be. With shopping bags filled with goodies that cost a fraction of the price you'd expect and were of superior quality.
In fact, I woke up intending to start a thread asking if anyone knew of any place even remotely comparable closer to us North (east) Siders? I know it's wishful thinking, but any recommendations???
Todd B.
10/18/2006
5 star rating
Caputo's makes me happy! From the amazing prices and dizzying assortment of ethnic niche items like fruit nectars, coffees, cereals and meats, to the cheesy-but-charming theme song sung by a Sinatra-esque crooner, this is like a mini trip to another time. Be sure to check out the sausages!
Tina T.
10/18/2006
5 star rating
Caputo's - what can one say about this place other than it's a definite experience and great grocery store all in one? Every time I step into this store, my mind is flooded with memories of my childhood; growing up in a very Italian family, food is a huge part of the experience. The smells of finely aged provolone cheese, the spicy Italian cold cuts, the banter between the old Italians that shop at this store; all wonderful reminders of my childhood. That's what's wrong with the antiseptic atmosphere at most large chain groceries today - they lack the passion of the ethnic atmosphere that only these stores can provide!
And the food! Wonderful produce, excellent selection of exotic pastas, spices, cheeses: their deli counter is amazing. Imported mortadella, capicolla, parma prosciutto sliced paper thin it melts in your mouth! Tony Soprano would be in heaven here! And they have great cuts of meat, chicken kievs ready to pop in the oven, buffalo mozzarella - too many great things to name! And since I've only been in the Addison location, I don't know about their other stores, but in Addison they have a great selection of Polish, Middle Eastern, Greek and Mexican foods as well. It is not a place that you go to if you need to be in and out quickly - the deli counter alone can take forever. But for a great authentic shopping experience, or if you're Italian and want to relive some childhood memories, head here. The prices are fantastic too.
Peter F.
09/09/2006
5 star rating
I love this place. If it's "ethnic" they have it. Superb Deli. The prices are a third of (Chain A) or (Chain B) They are well run and clean considering the customer turn over. I like to just "cruz" the aisles just to see what they have in stock. Couldn’t live with out this grocer.
Rachel H.
08/30/2006
5 star rating
God do I love Caputo's. I haven't been in a while because its a little far out there for me now that I've moved. However, it is well worth the trip for some of the freshest, most affordable produce around. You can actually get high quality pasta for less than you would pay for (Chain A’s) brand. Why would you not come here for that alone? The bakery area is full of delicious little treats and I bought a crap ton of raisins for virtually pennies last time I was here. Someone stop me before I gush all over everywhere about the wonder that is Caputo's.
Kasia M.
08/04/2006
5 star rating
I love this place. Great prices and service. It does get really busy on Friday nights through Sunday.. but if you come in early on a Saturday, I believe they open at 7, you won't find a big crowd. The fruits and vegetables are always fresh and always great prices. I never had a bad experience at this store.
I haven't tried anything from their deli yet, so I can’t comment on that, but there is always a line to get stuff, so I’m sure it's good. They also have a small little bakery across from the deli, w/all different types of pastries.
Julia K.
06/01/2006
5 star rating
Caputo's rocks! They have EVERYTHING your heart desires...seriously! Everything is fresh, good, and CHEAP! The meat is so cheap here and it's always delicious! I got pork tenderloins for TWO BUCKS EACH! Granted, they were smaller than normal, but two of them are the same size of one normal one!
They also have an excellent deli case stocked with everything ever. Try the Bulgarian feta cheese! It's tangy, but oh so creamy! They even have a huge fresh dessert case of tiny cakes and stuff, like a patisserie in the middle of the grocery store!
Caputo's is the size of a regular supermarket, so make sure you have plenty of time to explore the place. Parking is also a bit tough because the lot is so small, but there's street parking too.
Mia S.
04/17/2006
5 star rating
This is where I go to feel complete. Caputo's makes (“Another store”) in Chicago look like a joke. I don't know how big the Elmwood Park location is but the Addison store is huge and full of affordable fresh produce as well as aisles that are divided by geographic origins (Polish foods, Mexican foods, Asian foods, etc.). If for some reason you end up in Addison, you should definitely stop by here.
Kathleen O.
04/04/2006
5 star rating
Last fall, when I told my buddy Nick about Caputo's, I think I came off as a crazy person. But it is THAT GREAT. They have 7 kinds of eggplant. The vegetables are so fresh that they taste like vegetables. And cheap, too. I'm a single person and I bought a whole cart full. I had to clean my apartment so that I could have a party so that I wouldn't waste the food. It was worth cleaning my apartment.
I'm temporarily out in the burbs (Western Springs) and I go to Lakeview by way of Caputo's twice a month. When I move to Wicker Park next month I'm going to take the 40 minute bus ride to get there. It's that good. It's Clean My Apartment good.
So when Nick finally went he was like a crazy person. "It's so amazing. They have everything for nothing. They have 7 kinds of eggplant." And he's not crazy.
Me, Myself and I.
01/22/2006
5 star rating
I remember going to this place back in the mid 80s with my family when I lived in Wheaton! This place is GREAT - best produce prices ANYWHERE (makes Cub Foods look way overpriced) and a great selection, I routinely make the drive (about 7 miles or so down Diversey blvd for me) to Caputo's, it blows everything else away - notably for: Produce, Deli, and specialty (especially Italian) grocery and dry goods, the things to be aware of at this location are the TIGHT parking (especially on weekends - ouch!) and it can get real crowded in the store as it isn't really that big... Their BIG store in west suburban Addison (Lake Street - east of I-355) is the mother lode of their 4 locations, I LOVE going there, for me it's like how some woman love shoe shopping - I could spend hours there and just dig it so much, everyone I have brought there also feels the same way too
Gary K.
08/18/2005
5 star rating
If you're looking for produce I doubt I'll ever find someplace better. Their prices are so good I usually leave with more fruits and vegetables than I can possibly eat before they go bad. The only possible drawback is that you have to pick through large racks and know what to look for in a good fruit that will last for you're intended purposes. Highly, highly recommended though.
a w.
07/28/2005
3 star rating
This place has some really reasonably priced fresh fruits and vegetables. Also, check out the bakery where there's lots of fresh baked goods to be found. One thing I think that can definitely be improved about this place is that it can get very disorganized and crowded....and then parking becomes an issue too...
Marian L.
07/12/2005
5 star rating
The freshest produce available in Chicago! They also make fresh and on the spot - any Italian cookie your heart desires! Imported meat and fish from various countries/locations, fresh pasta, meat, and cheese! Everything is fresh, fresh, fresh here! VERY small parking lot - good luck trying to get a spot...this place is usually swarming with people! Pick up a few cannoli while you're there - fantastic!
I Q.
07/11/2005
4 star rating
This place carries fresh fruit and vegetables at really low prices! Also, it carries many different types of ethnic foods. However, one thing I don’t like about this place is that it can get really crowded. But the workers here are really fast and efficient. They check you out with your groceries in less than 5 minutes!
a w.
07/08/2005
3 star rating
This is a fresh fruits and vegetables store with lots of different varieties of fruits and vegetables at really low prices. It's a nice store, but can get super crowded at times. Though the quality of the products and the stock is great, the lines can be long and parking around the store can be hard to find at times.
Dan B.
December 25, 2006
4 star rating
Caputo's is a pleasure. It has all you want for every cuisine. If Caputo was closer, it would be our single choice for small-lot shopping. Enjoy the experience.
Laurie J.
August 02, 2006
4 star rating
The old familiar smells of my grandmothers kitchen! I didn't know what to expect when I walked through the door of Caputo's Market. Then the wonderful scents of what my G-ma's kitchen hit me. The fresh veggie, spices, the different pasta noodles, meats...I was transported back in memory 40 years! The prices are so reasonable that anyone can afford to be a gourmet cook. The only word of advice I have is be prepared to use the veggies ASAP. They are at their ripest, and should be use immediately.
Karen S.
May 11, 2006
5 star rating
Great Prices, Produce and More Caputo' Fresh Markets is my favorite place for groceries. I love to cook and I enjoy cooking as many nights out of the week that I can. At Caputo's you will find fresh and plentiful produce and a fraction of the cost of your local grocery store (I'm referring to Chain A and Chain B).
There are certain items that are not financially conscious to buy at (Chain A) such as orange juice, ice cream and yogurt, these items you are better off purchasing at (Chain B or Chain A). However, if you are looking for fresh fruit and vegetables as well as fresh cheeses and deli meats, Caputo's can not be beat. A majority of the food items at Caputo's are Italian products, but they also carry other ethnic foods that will help complete any recipe you are creating. I’ll be honest, I border on obsessive with Caputo’s, since I love to cook and I’m 100% Italian, I want to buy everything in the store. I certainly never go there hungry, my bill would double.
Kathleen P.
September 21, 2005
5 star rating
An affordable grocery store Caputo's Fresh Markets originally opened in 1958 in Elmwood Park and a family owned business. They offer a large variety of fruits, vegetables and meats from many ethnic backgrounds. They have a large meat counter, deli counter and dessert counter. Their prices are very low compared to most grocery stores in the area. I can leave the store with many items in my cart and a low bill in the end. I highly recommend this store for all of your grocery staples.
Cristina M.
August 17, 2005
4 star rating
Fresh Food, Great Prices! Caputo’s Market is an independently owned Grocery store that offers a wide variety in fresh meats, produce and other grocery items. The prices are always low and deals are always to be found at this remarkable supermarket. You can find very unique fruits and vegetables that you would expect to have very hefty price tags at major national chain grocers. But, at Caputo’s, expect to find much, much lower prices. Their meat and deli department is especially terrific. They offer very fresh meats and great prices. Although, more known as an Italian grocery, Caputo’s does do a wonderful job of accommodating all ethnic food needs. Expect to leave this establishment with much, much more than what you paid for.
The following are comments recently placed on local blog sites where customers share comments about our stores. Some comments have been edited slightly for sake of brevity, or to protect the good name of our worthy competitors.
Kelly C.
10/08/2007
5 star rating
This is a place I would go substantially out of my way for. I remember around Christmas time I wanted to make Limoncello. They had huge, gorgeous, ripe, perfect lemons on sale for 12/$1. Are you kidding? This place is amazing. It's known for it's outstanding deli, but I’m not a fan of those cold meats.
The produce spans different origins and cultural interests. The aisles are broken down by ethnicity somewhat. They also have great plants outside, and in the spring and summer, wonderful fresh herbs! The quality is above your average market, but the price is much cheaper.
My must haves there are frozen pizza dough, croissants, bulk nuts and dried herbs, and unusual products that you can't conveniently find anywhere else.
Eric H.
09/18/2007
5 star rating
I love this place. Freshest produce. Best prices. Great variety. Awesome deli. Great hard to find items (e.g., my wife's favorite chocolate: Milka (chocolate bar) with Hazelnuts). I wish it was closer to my house, I would do ALL my grocery shopping here.
Jessica D.
09/02/2007
4 star rating
Very, very nice Italian American grocer that carries an excellent variety of fresh produce, as well as dried and packaged goods--particularly the ethnic aisles and Italian imports. Special finds include obleas (cookies) and glories in the Mexican aisle, and chinotto (Italian soft drink) and estathe (fruit flavored tea drink) in the Italian aisle. Excellent dolmas-in-a-can (stuffed grape leaves) in the Middle Eastern and/or Greek isles.
Great deli area with all kinds of pre-made items ready to eat, as well as dairy products and cold cuts.
The hugest pasta and olive oil aisles I've ever seen. Good prices all around.
Kristin G.
07/29/2007
4 star rating
LOVE IT! I live blocks from this location and walk over. Yes, parking sucks, yes, it gets busy but their prices are good, their produce is much better than what I find at (Chain A or Chain B) and their meat is great!
Ralph E.
July 21, 2007
5 star rating
Great Selections, Great Prices Caputo's in Hanover Park is a great shopping experience and enjoy shopping at this store when we are in Hanover Park. Formerly a resident a Hanover Park Now Spring Hill Florida. Please bring Caputo's to Spring Hill ,FL.
P.S. Your Bakery Products are SIX STAR over all store Five Star
Amaliya L.
07/10/2007
3 star rating
I am a huge sucker for Italian foods and markets. Their prices are pretty decent/ cheap, and they have a huge selection of produce, pre-made antipasta, and incredible Italian desserts. They have a huge aisle devoted to tomato products and olive oils. What I don't like about this place is that it's always crowded, space is limited, and the parking situation is terrible.
Brenda S.
07/07/2007
5 star rating
I LOVE THIS SUPERMARKET! Haven't found any store with the freshest top quality produce, herbs, meat in Chicago! Also, in the middle of the store there's a awesome Italian bakery and coffee bar - Parking is available, beware if you like to shop in a quite, spacious store, this is NOT for you - Caputo's is always crowded and loud.
LaLaLaLa L.
07/07/2007
5 star rating
They have the best produce in the city!! and VERY reasonably priced.
But my favorite part is that they play old hits (like frank Sinatra, etc) and replace the word to "Caputos". Ex: My kind of town, Chicago is.... changed to My kind of store, Caputos is.
PURE COMEDY
Lauren G.
07/07/2007
5 star rating
Great selection for a grocery store.
Anny M.
05/29/2007
5 star rating
My only complaint about Caputo's is that it's too far for me to make it my regular grocery store.
The produce is outstanding, in both quality and price. On a visit, a couple of months ago, (Chain A and Chain B) were both advertising grapefruit at $1/lb. Caputo's price was $.39/lb, and the grapefruit were juicy and delicious.
The deli is simply wonderful -- a huge selection with prices that have to be seen to be believed. I've bought a pound of salami for what a half-pound costs at the other stores. Prosciutto is priced here low enough it can be an everyday purchase instead of a "special occasion" buy.
Terrific bakery, too.
Chiara F.
05/23/2007
5 star rating
Oh Caputo's,
I met you for the first time when I was a wee baby. I lived right by your Addison location, and my Italian family was more than loyal to you. I grew up on your food, up until my parents got divorced and went their separate ways, away from you.
I lived on mediocre Jewel and Dominick's food for many years until I moved to Chicago. One day, I fondly thought about you and decided to do research. I was VERY pleasantly surprised to find out that you're right by the city!
Our reunion a couple of years ago was very magical. I walked in and inhaled the familiar childhood smell I'd missed out on for many years. I was like a kid in a candy store, running all over the place grabbing fresh produce, fresh bakery goods, nutella (chocolate spread), Italian bread, and packages of delicious biscotti.
And the prices!! Everything is so cheap and I always get my money's worth. Oh, Caputo's. I really, really appreciate your presence, as well as your shoppers'. I got hit by a big nostalgia stick when I saw all these old Italian ladies dragging their grumbling husbands and pouting kids in the pasta section, a young Greek couple arguing about if they should get prosciutto or ham, and independent grocers checking out the quality of the tomatoes. Please, please open a location within the city boundaries. It will be very appreciated!
Megan L.
04/04/2007
5 star rating
Based on the yelp reviews I read I trekked out here after work yesterday - never been to this neck of the woods before - it's different! I wasn't expecting the store to be so huge - no worries about running out of anything. And it's very clean - no dead cow smell. They have white asparagus, big artichokes, and fennel - you don't see those at (Chain A). The olive oil is what I came for since I make pesto all the time - got 3 quarts for 12 bucks. That should last me a while. I'll be back!
Cindy G.
03/16/2007
4 star rating
Excellent produce selection, deli and cheese selection. Also their prices are excellent. The negatives are yes, it does get crowded. Also, they don't have a huge frozen food selection. They are very limited in their Lean Cuisines (which I take to lunch) and their ice cream. These negatives are minor to me - you can get great produce at great prices, and the cost is always impressively low. This is a great neighborhood grocery store and I go there more often than any other.
Amina F.
02/20/2007
4 star rating
I go here religiously because of their wide variety of fresh fruits and vegetables and no one can beat their prices. I usually come out with a cart full of groceries for the entire month for less than 100 dollars.
Christina A.
01/31/2007
5 star rating
'Caputo's, Caputo's my favorite store'. . . That's what their trademarked song sings to a Frank Sinatra theme over their speakers and it couldn't say it any better.
'A funny thing happened to me on the way to the produce section'. . . One time while my mom was visiting from Midland, TX I took her to Caputo's because she usually doesn't get THIS kind of grocery shopping experience. Being that she is a complete foodie she went nuts in the store, actually stopping people to ask what they were going to do with all the stuff in their cart, hey she's from TX - she talks a lot. . . you have to love her.
The entire time we kept hearing the usual Frank/Dean/Rat Pack music playing overhead but it seemed almost live. As we made our way to the produce section the music seemed almost like a concert. Hmm. . . did we drink too much wine last night? I asked myself.
It was at that moment that we turned from the glorious homemade sausages into the produce section and there he was. 'He' being the man singing all those Rat Pack songs in the middle of the produce section with his portable electric piano. I cocked my head and at that moment realized I must have drank too much Lynfred wine the night before and at that very moment my mom screamed in glee, 'oh my God, this is so cool!'. Welcome to Caputo's.
Caputo's motto is 'If we don't have it you don't need it'. Well if they have a live musician in their produce section they surely have what most stores don't. Kudos Caputo's. . . kudos.
Karen A.
01/31/2007
5 star rating
You can buy four times the produce here than at whole paycheck, er...(Natural Foods Grocer).
This is where the little old Italian women shop with their babushkas on, where you can buy a dozen or more different gallons of imported olive oil cheap, where the parmigiana selection is as great as the prosciutto choices, the pasta picks, and the imported canned tomatoes, Italian candies, and other good stuff is plentiful.
This is a great old time Italian market where you shop among peasants, immigrants, Chicago restaurateurs and other colorful locals. An old school shoppers dream. Great prices too.
Deb S.
01/08/2007
5 star rating
Went this past week to check it out... They have a TON of stuff! Definitely worth the trip. Also noticed that they have a website too. Check it out: www.shopcaputos.com
Marc A.
12/07/2006
5 star rating
Hands down one of the best large Italian Stores in the area, well worth the drive for me. Not only is the produce fresh and in-expensive, they have excellent Italian Sausage. My grandmother made Italian sausage for years and the one and only rule was you cut the meat (pork) with a knife, you don't grind it. It gets all gritty if you do, Caputo's cuts the pork for their sausage with knives, which is rare these days.
Patty V.
10/27/2006
5 star rating
The all time best place for fresh veggies and fruit, as well as hard to find specialty items. It gets a little nutty on a Saturday (way crowded)., but worth it for all the variety and selection. Elmwood Park location is great too, now that parking lot has expanded. Great prices and you have to see the baked goods! Go ahead, get a tiramisu-you've been good!
Jesster A.
10/18/2006
5 star rating
Everyone is reading my mind this morning! I woke up thinking (dreaming) about Caputo's and bemoaning the fact that there are no location even remotely near here. I actually fantasize about this place.
(Last year we went to a pizza-making demonstration and came home as Fat and Happy as we could possibly be. With shopping bags filled with goodies that cost a fraction of the price you'd expect and were of superior quality.
In fact, I woke up intending to start a thread asking if anyone knew of any place even remotely comparable closer to us North (east) Siders? I know it's wishful thinking, but any recommendations???
Todd B.
10/18/2006
5 star rating
Caputo's makes me happy! From the amazing prices and dizzying assortment of ethnic niche items like fruit nectars, coffees, cereals and meats, to the cheesy-but-charming theme song sung by a Sinatra-esque crooner, this is like a mini trip to another time. Be sure to check out the sausages!
Tina T.
10/18/2006
5 star rating
Caputo's - what can one say about this place other than it's a definite experience and great grocery store all in one? Every time I step into this store, my mind is flooded with memories of my childhood; growing up in a very Italian family, food is a huge part of the experience. The smells of finely aged provolone cheese, the spicy Italian cold cuts, the banter between the old Italians that shop at this store; all wonderful reminders of my childhood. That's what's wrong with the antiseptic atmosphere at most large chain groceries today - they lack the passion of the ethnic atmosphere that only these stores can provide!
And the food! Wonderful produce, excellent selection of exotic pastas, spices, cheeses: their deli counter is amazing. Imported mortadella, capicolla, parma prosciutto sliced paper thin it melts in your mouth! Tony Soprano would be in heaven here! And they have great cuts of meat, chicken kievs ready to pop in the oven, buffalo mozzarella - too many great things to name! And since I've only been in the Addison location, I don't know about their other stores, but in Addison they have a great selection of Polish, Middle Eastern, Greek and Mexican foods as well. It is not a place that you go to if you need to be in and out quickly - the deli counter alone can take forever. But for a great authentic shopping experience, or if you're Italian and want to relive some childhood memories, head here. The prices are fantastic too.
Peter F.
09/09/2006
5 star rating
I love this place. If it's "ethnic" they have it. Superb Deli. The prices are a third of (Chain A) or (Chain B) They are well run and clean considering the customer turn over. I like to just "cruz" the aisles just to see what they have in stock. Couldn’t live with out this grocer.
Rachel H.
08/30/2006
5 star rating
God do I love Caputo's. I haven't been in a while because its a little far out there for me now that I've moved. However, it is well worth the trip for some of the freshest, most affordable produce around. You can actually get high quality pasta for less than you would pay for (Chain A’s) brand. Why would you not come here for that alone? The bakery area is full of delicious little treats and I bought a crap ton of raisins for virtually pennies last time I was here. Someone stop me before I gush all over everywhere about the wonder that is Caputo's.
Kasia M.
08/04/2006
5 star rating
I love this place. Great prices and service. It does get really busy on Friday nights through Sunday.. but if you come in early on a Saturday, I believe they open at 7, you won't find a big crowd. The fruits and vegetables are always fresh and always great prices. I never had a bad experience at this store.
I haven't tried anything from their deli yet, so I can’t comment on that, but there is always a line to get stuff, so I’m sure it's good. They also have a small little bakery across from the deli, w/all different types of pastries.
Julia K.
06/01/2006
5 star rating
Caputo's rocks! They have EVERYTHING your heart desires...seriously! Everything is fresh, good, and CHEAP! The meat is so cheap here and it's always delicious! I got pork tenderloins for TWO BUCKS EACH! Granted, they were smaller than normal, but two of them are the same size of one normal one!
They also have an excellent deli case stocked with everything ever. Try the Bulgarian feta cheese! It's tangy, but oh so creamy! They even have a huge fresh dessert case of tiny cakes and stuff, like a patisserie in the middle of the grocery store!
Caputo's is the size of a regular supermarket, so make sure you have plenty of time to explore the place. Parking is also a bit tough because the lot is so small, but there's street parking too.
Mia S.
04/17/2006
5 star rating
This is where I go to feel complete. Caputo's makes (“Another store”) in Chicago look like a joke. I don't know how big the Elmwood Park location is but the Addison store is huge and full of affordable fresh produce as well as aisles that are divided by geographic origins (Polish foods, Mexican foods, Asian foods, etc.). If for some reason you end up in Addison, you should definitely stop by here.
Kathleen O.
04/04/2006
5 star rating
Last fall, when I told my buddy Nick about Caputo's, I think I came off as a crazy person. But it is THAT GREAT. They have 7 kinds of eggplant. The vegetables are so fresh that they taste like vegetables. And cheap, too. I'm a single person and I bought a whole cart full. I had to clean my apartment so that I could have a party so that I wouldn't waste the food. It was worth cleaning my apartment.
I'm temporarily out in the burbs (Western Springs) and I go to Lakeview by way of Caputo's twice a month. When I move to Wicker Park next month I'm going to take the 40 minute bus ride to get there. It's that good. It's Clean My Apartment good.
So when Nick finally went he was like a crazy person. "It's so amazing. They have everything for nothing. They have 7 kinds of eggplant." And he's not crazy.
Me, Myself and I.
01/22/2006
5 star rating
I remember going to this place back in the mid 80s with my family when I lived in Wheaton! This place is GREAT - best produce prices ANYWHERE (makes Cub Foods look way overpriced) and a great selection, I routinely make the drive (about 7 miles or so down Diversey blvd for me) to Caputo's, it blows everything else away - notably for: Produce, Deli, and specialty (especially Italian) grocery and dry goods, the things to be aware of at this location are the TIGHT parking (especially on weekends - ouch!) and it can get real crowded in the store as it isn't really that big... Their BIG store in west suburban Addison (Lake Street - east of I-355) is the mother lode of their 4 locations, I LOVE going there, for me it's like how some woman love shoe shopping - I could spend hours there and just dig it so much, everyone I have brought there also feels the same way too
Gary K.
08/18/2005
5 star rating
If you're looking for produce I doubt I'll ever find someplace better. Their prices are so good I usually leave with more fruits and vegetables than I can possibly eat before they go bad. The only possible drawback is that you have to pick through large racks and know what to look for in a good fruit that will last for you're intended purposes. Highly, highly recommended though.
a w.
07/28/2005
3 star rating
This place has some really reasonably priced fresh fruits and vegetables. Also, check out the bakery where there's lots of fresh baked goods to be found. One thing I think that can definitely be improved about this place is that it can get very disorganized and crowded....and then parking becomes an issue too...
Marian L.
07/12/2005
5 star rating
The freshest produce available in Chicago! They also make fresh and on the spot - any Italian cookie your heart desires! Imported meat and fish from various countries/locations, fresh pasta, meat, and cheese! Everything is fresh, fresh, fresh here! VERY small parking lot - good luck trying to get a spot...this place is usually swarming with people! Pick up a few cannoli while you're there - fantastic!
I Q.
07/11/2005
4 star rating
This place carries fresh fruit and vegetables at really low prices! Also, it carries many different types of ethnic foods. However, one thing I don’t like about this place is that it can get really crowded. But the workers here are really fast and efficient. They check you out with your groceries in less than 5 minutes!
a w.
07/08/2005
3 star rating
This is a fresh fruits and vegetables store with lots of different varieties of fruits and vegetables at really low prices. It's a nice store, but can get super crowded at times. Though the quality of the products and the stock is great, the lines can be long and parking around the store can be hard to find at times.
Dan B.
December 25, 2006
4 star rating
Caputo's is a pleasure. It has all you want for every cuisine. If Caputo was closer, it would be our single choice for small-lot shopping. Enjoy the experience.
Laurie J.
August 02, 2006
4 star rating
The old familiar smells of my grandmothers kitchen! I didn't know what to expect when I walked through the door of Caputo's Market. Then the wonderful scents of what my G-ma's kitchen hit me. The fresh veggie, spices, the different pasta noodles, meats...I was transported back in memory 40 years! The prices are so reasonable that anyone can afford to be a gourmet cook. The only word of advice I have is be prepared to use the veggies ASAP. They are at their ripest, and should be use immediately.
Karen S.
May 11, 2006
5 star rating
Great Prices, Produce and More Caputo' Fresh Markets is my favorite place for groceries. I love to cook and I enjoy cooking as many nights out of the week that I can. At Caputo's you will find fresh and plentiful produce and a fraction of the cost of your local grocery store (I'm referring to Chain A and Chain B).
There are certain items that are not financially conscious to buy at (Chain A) such as orange juice, ice cream and yogurt, these items you are better off purchasing at (Chain B or Chain A). However, if you are looking for fresh fruit and vegetables as well as fresh cheeses and deli meats, Caputo's can not be beat. A majority of the food items at Caputo's are Italian products, but they also carry other ethnic foods that will help complete any recipe you are creating. I’ll be honest, I border on obsessive with Caputo’s, since I love to cook and I’m 100% Italian, I want to buy everything in the store. I certainly never go there hungry, my bill would double.
Kathleen P.
September 21, 2005
5 star rating
An affordable grocery store Caputo's Fresh Markets originally opened in 1958 in Elmwood Park and a family owned business. They offer a large variety of fruits, vegetables and meats from many ethnic backgrounds. They have a large meat counter, deli counter and dessert counter. Their prices are very low compared to most grocery stores in the area. I can leave the store with many items in my cart and a low bill in the end. I highly recommend this store for all of your grocery staples.
Cristina M.
August 17, 2005
4 star rating
Fresh Food, Great Prices! Caputo’s Market is an independently owned Grocery store that offers a wide variety in fresh meats, produce and other grocery items. The prices are always low and deals are always to be found at this remarkable supermarket. You can find very unique fruits and vegetables that you would expect to have very hefty price tags at major national chain grocers. But, at Caputo’s, expect to find much, much lower prices. Their meat and deli department is especially terrific. They offer very fresh meats and great prices. Although, more known as an Italian grocery, Caputo’s does do a wonderful job of accommodating all ethnic food needs. Expect to leave this establishment with much, much more than what you paid for.
