You’ve probably seen these popping up everywhere; I think the count is around 33 stores in 66 days. And we have one just around the corner on Eagle Rock Blvd. After all the buzz about these stores getting the best of me, I finally ventured in.

Now for those of you who always wanted to be THAT checkout guy/gal behind the conveyor belt, your wildest dreams can now be fulfilled. This is kind of a do-it-yourself grocery store. You scan your own stuff, and follow the menu on the check-out screen. Easy. Just as the name promised.

Now, for the fresh part. Hey, they promised that, too, right? I love this place. The pre-packaged meals are tasty, and most of the stuff is pretty cheap (no check-out people to pay I guess). This isn’t to say the store is void of any employees, (for those of you already masterminding that great grocery rip-off).

In fact, the people who do work there are friendly, helpful and will jump in and help you bag your swag at the end of your shopping tour. They even gave me some coupons to lure me back ASAP - I think they expire in a week.

The meat, fish, and veggies are all fresh and vibrant, and the place is actually a breath of fresh air from the usual grocery shopping excursions where you are constantly bombarded by advertising. It’s kinda like the Zen of shopping. Relaxed, enjoyable…you become one with the food.

The place is packed with just about everything, but I still need my Whole foods fix now and then. One thing’s for sure, you won’t go hungry in this neighborhood.