Food Basics offers a great selection of international groceries and an excellent produce section, although the quality of meats may not be high. The prices are lower than competitors like Loblaws, and the store is usually well-stocked with clear aisles, making for a pleasant shopping experience. Staff are friendly and often provide professional support, especially at self-checkouts. While the store maintains cleanliness and fast-moving lines, there are occasional peak times that may cause longer waits. Shoppers can find good deals, but the quality of fruits and vegetables can vary, with some items like berries sometimes found with mold. Overall, many customers prefer the Merivale location for its organization and fresher produce.