We Midwesterners envy that fresh seafood!
We also have excellent fresh local meat available, both from our small local grocery and from butcher shops supplied by local producers. Twice a year the grocery has sales on whole muscle cuts from area farmers that are wonderful in all respects.
This area boasts the largest collection of organic farmers in the country, mostly thanks to Organic Valley. Our Farmers Market also has wonderful produce from the Amish and from the Hmong. Lots of heirloom and exotic varieties, too, plus local maple syrup and honey. Best selection in summer, of course, but they are open all year round in a marketplace-type building.
Of course, we also have the Free Trade organic coffee and local wine. Not too impressed with either, though.
Still, I am impressed with Aldi’s and when my husband is in La Crosse for work, he will stop there and at Woodman’s for perishables. Otherwise, I probably make the trip every couple of months to stock up on shelf items.
I can sometimes feel guilty at how much I will spend on exotic & gourmet items. The Sam’s in La Crosse carries a wonderful Danish Blue cheese and affordable nova lox. I probably do whatever I can to save on other foodstuffs to make up for my other extravagances.
I guess I should wander in and take another look.
I worked retail as a youth. I am aware that management and other factors will really change your experience from store to store.
Stay warm!