What to Expect When Grocery Shopping in Turks and Caicos
Grocery shopping in Turks and Caicos is a unique experience compared to shopping in the US or Canada. Since nearly everything is imported by ship or air, prices are typically 50-100% higher than what you'd pay back home. Most stores carry familiar US brands alongside Caribbean and international products, giving you plenty of options.
The good news? Providenciales has several well-stocked grocery stores ranging from budget-friendly to gourmet. Whether you're staying in Grace Bay, Downtown, or Leeward, you'll find a store nearby. Most accept US dollars and credit cards, making shopping convenient for visitors.
The Main Grocery Stores in Providenciales
Graceway IGA - The Island's Largest Supermarket
Located on Leeward Highway at Graceway Plaza, Graceway IGA is the biggest grocery store in Turks and Caicos. This full-service supermarket is your best bet for one-stop shopping with the widest selection on the island.
The store features a complete bakery with fresh donuts and croissants daily, plus custom cake orders for special occasions. Their deli counter serves hot breakfast sandwiches, rotisserie chicken, and freshly made pizzas. You'll find both local produce when available (like North Caicos cucumbers) and imported fruits and vegetables.
Graceway IGA stocks products from around the world including items from Jamaica, Haiti, Dominican Republic, and Asian countries. They offer full catering platters and have an extensive wine and liquor section. The central location between the airport and Grace Bay makes it a perfect first stop after landing.
Graceway Gourmet - Upscale Shopping in Grace Bay
For those staying in Grace Bay resorts, Graceway Gourmet in Regent Village is within walking distance of most hotels. This upscale location specializes in premium and specialty products you won't find elsewhere.
The store excels at catering to dietary needs with extensive vegetarian, gluten-free, organic, and sugar-free options. International brands like Waitrose are regularly stocked. Their prepared food section includes a salad bar, hot food counter, stone-baked pizza oven, and custom sandwich station.
The in-store Java Bar serves gourmet coffee, pressed juices, and smoothies like their popular "Kale Me Crazy." With outdoor seating and free WiFi, it's a pleasant spot to grab breakfast or lunch. Don't miss their selection of wines and local Turk's Head Brewery beers.
Graceway Smart - Budget-Friendly Downtown Option
Opened in 2016 at Town Center Mall in Downtown, Graceway Smart focuses on affordable prices without sacrificing quality. This location is ideal for budget-conscious shoppers and long-term visitors.
The store carries Essential Everyday branded products and features a popular "dollar deals" section. Their deli offers fresh breakfast items, packed lunches, and daily hot food specials. Despite being the budget option, their produce and meat quality matches their sister stores.
Graceway Smart stocks Bambarra Rum and rum cakes, perfect local souvenirs. The store also houses a Flow mobile shop for phone accessories and SIM cards, plus a CIBC ATM. It's conveniently located near the airport for quick stops.
Quality Supermarket - Local Favorite
Quality Supermarket serves as a reliable local chain offering competitive prices on everyday items. They stock a good mix of local and imported products, making them popular with residents. The store provides solid basics without the premium prices of specialty stores.
Specialty Food Stores
Island Prime & Butcher - Premium Meats
Located in The Hub complex across from Graceway Gourmet, Island Prime & Butcher is the island's specialty butcher shop. They offer USDA grade beef, pork, lamb, and poultry, all imported from the US.
Their meats are pasture-raised without antibiotics, hormones, or GMOs. The shop makes house-made sausages including bratwurst, chorizo, and merguez. They also stock artisanal cheeses, pâtés, and specialty deli items perfect for charcuterie boards.
Sunny Foods - Asian and Caribbean Specialties
On South Dock Road near Downtown, Sunny Foods offers unique products at competitive prices. This wholesale/grocery chain specializes in Asian and Caribbean items you won't find elsewhere.
Browse their impressive collection of hot sauces, spices, and instant noodles. The produce section includes hard-to-find items like bitter melon and tamarind. Sunny Foods offers the best prices on paper products and cleaning supplies, plus they stock small kitchen appliances.
Blue Haven Market - Marina Convenience
Located at Blue Haven Resort in Leeward, this market combines a café and convenience store. The café serves fresh croissants, breakfast sandwiches, smoothies, and specialty coffee with scenic marina views.
While smaller than full supermarkets, they stock essentials, personal care items, snacks, and a selection of beer and wine. It's perfect for quick provisions if you're staying in the Leeward area or need items for a boat trip.
Tips for Grocery Shopping in Turks and Caicos
Shop Early in the Week Fresh shipments typically arrive Monday through Wednesday. For the best produce selection, shop early in the week before items sell out.
Bring Reusable Bags Many stores charge for plastic bags or have limited supplies. Bring your own reusable bags to save money and help the environment.
No Sunday Alcohol Sales By law, stores cannot sell alcohol on Sundays. Plan ahead if you need beer, wine, or spirits for Sunday gatherings.
Check Multiple Stores Prices and selection vary significantly between stores. Graceway Smart often has the best prices on basics, while Gourmet has specialty items.
Use Local Delivery Services Skip the rental car and save time with grocery delivery. IslandCart offers reliable delivery from all major supermarkets in Providenciales. You can also try our partner SwiftEats for quick food and grocery delivery, or explore other options like Goods2Door, OrderUp, and TurksandCaicosGroceryDelivery. Delivery is especially convenient for large shopping trips or if you're staying without a vehicle.
Stock Up Early If you're staying for a week or more, do a big shop early in your trip. Popular items can sell out, especially during peak tourist season.
Making the Most of Your Grocery Shopping
Grocery shopping in Turks and Caicos doesn't have to break the bank if you shop smart. Graceway Smart and Sunny Foods offer the best value for basics. For special meals or dietary needs, Graceway Gourmet has you covered. Need quality meats? Island Prime & Butcher is worth the premium.
Most visitors find that cooking some meals at their villa or condo helps offset the high cost of dining out every night. With several good grocery stores to choose from, you can easily stock your kitchen with everything from local fish to familiar comfort foods from home.
Whether you're here for a week or a season, Providenciales has all the grocery options you need to eat well during your stay in paradise.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are grocery store hours in Turks and Caicos?
Most major grocery stores are open Monday-Saturday from 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM, and Sundays from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Hours may vary slightly by location, with some stores closing earlier on Sundays.
Are grocery stores in Turks and Caicos expensive?
Yes, groceries cost 50-100% more than in the US or Canada since almost everything is imported. Budget-friendly options like Graceway Smart and Sunny Foods offer better prices on basic items.
Can I buy alcohol at grocery stores in Turks and Caicos?
Yes, grocery stores sell beer, wine, and spirits Monday through Saturday. Alcohol sales are prohibited on Sundays by law, so plan ahead for Sunday gatherings.
Do grocery stores accept US dollars?
Yes, all major grocery stores accept US dollars and major credit cards. The Turks and Caicos uses the US dollar as its official currency.
Which grocery store is closest to Grace Bay resorts?
Graceway Gourmet in Regent Village is within walking distance of most Grace Bay resorts. It's the most convenient option for tourists staying in the Grace Bay area.
Do grocery stores offer delivery in Turks and Caicos?
Yes, here at Island Cart we offer grocery delivery throughout Providenciales as well as other local delivery apps service most grocery stores in Providenciales. This is especially helpful if you don't have a rental car.
Where can I find organic and gluten-free products?
Graceway Gourmet has the best selection of organic, gluten-free, vegetarian, and specialty dietary products. Graceway IGA also carries some organic and specialty items.
What's the best grocery store for meat in Turks and Caicos?
Island Prime & Butcher in Grace Bay offers the highest quality meats, including USDA grade beef and house-made sausages. For regular meat shopping, Graceway IGA has a good butcher counter.
Are there Asian grocery stores in Turks and Caicos?
Sunny Foods on South Dock Road specializes in Asian products including spices, sauces, instant noodles, and unique produce like bitter melon and tamarind.
Should I bring food from home to Turks and Caicos?
You can bring packaged, sealed foods in your luggage. Many visitors bring specialty items, snacks, or baby food to save money. Fresh produce, meats, and liquids over 3.4 oz must go in checked baggage.
