The grocery game today is much different from when McGonigle's first opened in 1951. Organic stores play to vegans and the health-conscious, and megamarts burden us with a hundred more choices of frozen dinners than we could ever need. This Waldo landmark can't compete with a big-box store's breadth of selection, but it's in a class by itself. The butcher counter draws you in — the steaks and cut-to-order meats are the store's main attraction. But don't overlook the rest of the shelves. Thanks to the store's simple organizing principle, you'll find yourself noticing produce that goes with the dish you were just thinking about and a late-night dessert that'd be the perfect closer. Even the impulse items, such as the pickle popsicles near the cash registers, stand out. And while you're checking out, be sure to buy tokens to swap for meat from the smokers outside; it's some of the best barbecue in town. Most stores confuse you. McGonigle's reads your mind.
