The Store (and really, it’s just called The Store) in Catonsville is what grocery stores used to be—privately owned and small. Located on Frederick Road in Paradise, it’s the anchor store of a number of small businesses in the area. But it’s also a reminder of why large grocery stores have nearly taken over—The Store is small and although they have a good variety of items, it isn’t nearly the selection that you’re used to from a larger store. They probably won’t have the brand of breakfast cereal that you want, and they certainly will only have it in one size if they have it at all. Their prices are also significantly higher than you’ll find elsewhere. I feel awful saying this because it’s the sort of store that you really want to like—neighborhood grocer, friendly staff, you can walk there from home (or at least I can)—but in spite of its proximity, I rarely go there. Even with the cost of gas these days, it’s still cheaper for me to get in the car and go to Safeway or Giant. They do have a beer and wine section, nearly unheard of in Maryland, but like the rest of their stock it’s very limited.
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