This newly-launched gourmet hub in Santacruz offers a premium shopping experience

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A month after Food Square, a luxury and gourmet grocery store at Santacruz Link Road, opened its doors, we decided to take a peek at their offerings. Upon first glimpse, the space looks similar to the gourmet store that preceded it, but we were delighted to find certain upgrades and attention to small details that make the shopping experience better.

The store spans three floors - the entrance opens into the main produce section comprising fruits, vegetables, grains, masalas, and bakery and dairy products. Snacks, beverages and a section dedicated to pet products are located on the first floor; this also includes an ice-cream, coffee, dried fruits and dates counters, and an upcoming beer section. The lower ground floor houses a cafeteria, a pâtisserie Philoméne, an Indian mithai shop called Genda Phool, a fish and meats section, as well as a gift-wrapping stall - with many luxury grocery products, the store is a great stop to design your own gift hamper. We were informed that an eatery serving Italian cuisine will open on the second floor in a few weeks' time.

After a walkthrough, here is what we liked.

The Guide's top 6 picks

1 Grab a bite: While we did not sit down for a meal at the cafeteria called The Barn that included sushi, burgers, wraps, sandwiches and more, we did stop for coffee and ice-cream. The in-house ice-cream counter Blanchette is worth your time and money. Plus points for the cookie and mini Loacker wafer that come free with your coffee. The coffee corner is stocked with vegan milk options, but we're hoping for better dairy options in the future.

2 Wide Range of produce: The store stocks an extensive range of Indian and international products including pasta, cheeses, honey, and imported dates. There's a section on the lower ground floor dedicated to truffle and olive oils. The fresh product too boasted of a great variety - we spotted a range of tomatoes including types of cherry tomatoes on the vine, kumato tomatoes, and large beef tomatoes; violet carrots, large lemons, jalapenos, lotus root, blue potatoes and potatoes ratte, and over three types of peppers. However, the premium products come at premium prices. We would have wished for a better-stocked chocolate section with more international varieties.

3 Smart sections: The store is well-categorised, making it easier to check off your shopping list. For instance, millet and rice have their separate sections, while dairy products and quick picks like kombucha are placed adjacently. There's a separate but limited section even for baby food.

4 Added offerings: Near the vegetable and fruit stalls was the Chopping Board section, where you can have your produce peeled and chopped to be taken back home. It stocks in-house dips and sauces to make an on-the-go salad as well.

5 Baby carts: One of the best features, which might be 30 years too late for this writer, was the baby shopping carts for children to shop for their own groceries. Each cart has a long pole and flag to help spot your little one.

6 Accessibility: There is a ramp and limited steps at the entrance, preventing a difficult climb for senior citizens. There's also an entrance from the road to the cafeteria on the lower ground floor, and valet parking.

TIME Daily; 10 am to 11 pm
AT Food Square, 106 Linking Road, Santacruz West.
CALL 9833355199