When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Mariano's
Why Mariano's is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Mariano's, founded in 2010 and owned by Kroger, is a popular supermarket chain primarily serving the Chicago metropolitan area. With 43 locations mainly in Illinois, Mariano's offers an extensive range of products and services that make it an excellent place to meet friends and shop together. The stores are spacious, with the first location spanning 60,000 sq ft, allowing for a variety of departments all under one roof. Highlights include specialty food offerings such as freshly prepared sushi, rotisserie chickens, smoked ribs, briskets, sliders, and a salad bar buffet, catering to diverse tastes and social gatherings. Mariano's also includes coffee and gelato sections, an oyster and liquor bar, cheese and sweets selections, and fresh juices and smoothies, making it more than a typical grocery store but a social and culinary hub. The friendly and inviting atmosphere, combined with everyday low prices and convenient grocery pickup and delivery options, ensures a satisfying shopping experience that attracts both locals and visitors.
Here's what people think of Mariano's
As of recent, Mariano's holds a 4-star rating based on 899 reviews.
Customer reviews for Mariano's generally reflect a positive shopping experience, consistent with its 4.0-star rating from nearly 900 reviewers. Many users appreciate the wide variety of fresh and ready-to-eat foods available, highlighting the specialty departments like sushi, rotisserie chickens, and the salad buffet as standout features. Positive reviews commonly mention the store's cleanliness, friendly staff, and the inviting atmosphere that makes it an enjoyable destination beyond grocery shopping. Additionally, customers value the convenience of multiple locations and the availability of pickup and delivery services. On the downside, some negative reviews focus on recent store closures in suburban areas like Buffalo Grove, Bloomingdale, and Northbrook, which have inconvenienced loyal shoppers. Other critical feedback includes occasional issues with stock availability and pricing concerns compared to competitors. Despite these challenges, the overall consensus is that Mariano's provides quality products and a community-friendly environment. The balance of strengths and areas for improvement suggests Mariano's remains a favored neighborhood supermarket, with ongoing efforts focused on maintaining long-term business health and customer satisfaction.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Claudia Melo
I got everything for my Father’s Day brunch !! The only think we miss was the luxury ice !
Donna Rose
Brittany, was so kind, patient ,respectful, her work ethic has made us feel so welcome in your grocery store. Thank you so much for having an employee with such dedication to her job , truly hope she’s recognized for being such a great asset to your company. It’s not every day an employee goes so out of their way for customer’s. Veronica, at the meat counter, was more than eager to help us and picking out our meat. she wrapped everything so beautifully being a valued customer feels wonderful, thank you so much Veronica. Roy and DonnaRose
albert jara
Im upset because why don't they apply the same price in every store I just bought a dozen doughnuts at a Marianos store in Northlake and manager told me if I bought them at surten hour I get them for half price why don't they do that in chicago Marianos stores not fare
Casey
Fresh produce, not so fresh. Store consistently has poor quality produce and over all store esthetic have really went down hill since Kroger purchased. Store is now a last resort when compared to the competitors in the area.
Lisa Marsh
Stop at your local Mariano's locations and pick up your MsPs delicious, soft-baked, hand made Granola 😋
How to reach Mariano's
None
Website: None
Why Mariano's may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Mariano's with your friends? Mariano's is more than just a grocery store—it's a vibrant community hub that offers an inviting atmosphere and a diverse array of food and shopping experiences perfect for group meetups. Whether you're craving high-quality prepared meals, fresh produce, or unique grocery finds, Mariano's delivers an impressive range that caters to all tastes. It creates a casual yet lively environment where friends and family members can browse, sample, and enjoy food together, making it an ideal spot to rally before or after exploring nearby attractions. Its location in downtown Chicago allows for easy accessibility, and the store’s layout encourages socializing while shopping or dining. The friendly and knowledgeable staff add to the welcoming vibe, helping groups feel at ease. Additionally, Mariano's reputation for quality products paired with its tasteful presentation turns a simple visit into a special outing. All these features combine to make Mariano's a natural choice to gather with friends—not just as a shopping excursion but as a shared gastronomic and social experience.
What activities can groups enjoy at Mariano's? One of the primary activities at Mariano’s is exploring its diverse culinary options which go far beyond typical grocery store fare. The store is known for its extensive salad and prepared food bars, offering everything from fresh sushi and cooked fish to a wide variety of salads and hot entrees. Groups can enjoy a tasting adventure by sampling different dishes from the food counters, which makes for a fun and interactive dining experience. There's also a bakery section filled with visually appealing cakes, pastries, and desserts, ideal for treating your group to something sweet. For those who prefer a more relaxed experience, Mariano’s coffee and gelato sections provide an excellent spot for casual coffee breaks or dessert dates. Shopping together for picnic supplies like fine cheeses, charcuterie, or artisanal breads can be a community-building activity as well. The store often stocks rare or hard-to-find ingredients, inviting curious food enthusiasts to discover new flavors and share culinary inspiration with friends.
Why is Mariano's a perfect place for group meetups? Mariano's excels at creating a sense of place that encourages lingering and shared experiences. The store’s thoughtful design includes spacious aisles and comfortable seating areas that accommodate groups without feeling cramped. This makes it easy for friends and family to move about together, converse, and enjoy the food and environment at their own pace. Its strategic downtown locations enable visitors to combine the visit with other social plans like exploring nearby parks or cultural venues, making it a great starting or ending point for a day out. The high level of service ensures that groups are well taken care of, whether ordering custom cooked meals or needing recommendations for party trays and catering services. Even the grocery shopping aspect becomes more enjoyable as group members can split tasks, find favorite items, and share their discoveries. Mariano’s also often hosts seasonal promotions and special food presentations that add an element of festivity and surprise, enhancing the meetup atmosphere.
What makes Mariano’s food and grocery selection stand out for groups? Mariano’s reputation for quality food is backed by its commitment to freshness and variety. The seafood section, for example, often receives praise for its selection and the option to have fish cooked on-site, providing a restaurant-style experience in a grocery setting. This is ideal for friends who want to enjoy a freshly prepared meal without the hassle of cooking themselves. The store’s produce section is another highlight, offering an impressive array of vibrant fruits and vegetables that inspire healthy group meals or picnic baskets. For those into international cuisine, Mariano’s stocks a range of global ingredients that can excite culinary experimentation among friends. Meanwhile, the bakery’s artisanal breads and pastries provide baked goodness perfect for group breakfasts or snack breaks. The beverage aisle, including coffee and gels, rounds out the offerings by supplying everything needed for a complete social gathering. This diversity supports all kinds of meetups—from casual coffee catch-ups to planner-forged potlucks or food-inspired celebrations.
How does Mariano’s ambiance contribute to a positive group experience? The physical and social environment at Mariano's is crafted to encourage enjoyment and interaction. Many locations feature natural lighting and well-organized displays that make browsing pleasurable and stress-free. This emphasis on ambiance makes it easy for groups to feel comfortable spending extended time there. Unlike crowded markets or supermarkets, Mariano’s often manages to create a sense of flow and order even during busy hours. Clean, modern décor paired with lively food stations generates an upbeat, sensory-engaging atmosphere that captivates visitors. Live cooking stations and samplings add an interactive element, turning shopping into an event. For groups, this setting fosters conversation and shared discoveries, turning what could be a mundane chore into a memorable outing. The general warmth and energy of Mariano’s support the social bonding that groups look for when choosing a meetup venue.
What additional services enhance Mariano's suitability for hosting group events? Mariano's offers several services that extend its appeal beyond standard grocery shopping and casual dining. Catering is available for special occasions ranging from corporate events to family celebrations, providing tailored menus that can accommodate a variety of tastes and dietary needs. This makes Mariano’s a convenient one-stop shop for party planning, allowing groups to curate everything from appetizers to desserts in one place. Some locations also offer online ordering and pickup, facilitating group coordination and minimizing wait times. The staff’s willingness to assist with custom orders and advice on meal pairings further personalizes the experience, making it easier for groups to plan their visits efficiently. Lastly, the store’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction ensures that group events hosted with Mariano’s products will be both impressive and hassle-free.
What challenges should groups be aware of when visiting Mariano's? While Mariano’s has many strengths, some reviews mention issues that groups might consider. The store’s popularity can lead to crowded conditions during peak hours, which might hamper ease of movement for larger groups. Customer service experiences have been reported as inconsistent by some visitors, so it's wise to have patience or prepare to seek assistance proactively. The return policy on certain items, especially alcohol, may be restrictive, which is worth noting if your group plans to purchase beverages. Additionally, parking availability can vary by location, so planning ahead is advised. These factors, while not uncommon in busy urban stores, highlight the importance of timing your visit and communicating clearly with staff to maximize enjoyment. Being mindful of these challenges ensures your group’s meetup goes smoothly and remains focused on the positives Mariano’s offers.
Overall, Mariano’s earns a strong recommendation as a multifaceted venue for social gatherings focused on food, exploration, and togetherness. Offering both casual delight through its food bars and deeper culinary discoveries via its grocery selections and services, Mariano’s stands out as a versatile and approachable destination. Its balance of quality, variety, ambiance, and services makes it an excellent rally point for friends and families looking to combine shopping, dining, and socializing in one vibrant, friendly setting.