In my many attempts to make different and delicious Mexican cuisine, getting the right spices have proven to be a difficult task for me. Until I realized that I wasn't looking in one place. Food City.

Before this past week I have never been to a Food City grocery store and when I left I wondered why. It definitely is not your average grocery store. I liked shopping there because they had a little bit of everything. From your average snack food, fruits and vegetables to Mexican candy, every kind of spice needed and my favorite, pan dulce (Mexican sweet bread).

When I walked into the one located at 719 E. Fort Lowell Rd. Spanish music was playing over the loud speaker and through the entrance there was a huge porcelain statue of the virgin of Guadalupe. I was kind of surprised when I saw it. That's usually not something you see in a grocery store. Why would that be in a grocery store?Through my shopping experience I found that they really do cater to the Hispanic community in more than just providing them with authentic Mexican food variety. They also had porcelain statues of Jesus and different saints along with candles. To top that off they had pinatas of every color and the brightest and most colorful fiesta decorations. This place literally has the most random things in it.

According to their website, Food City was acquired by Bashas' grocery stores in 1993. It has a high reputation of serving the Hispanic community all over the state of Arizona for over 50 years. Tucson alone has 11 stores, some have pharmacies and provide money exchange services.

They also host youth immunization clinics at certain times of the year. Along with these clinics Food City has an annual Fiestas Patrias festival. It commemorates Mexican Independence Day from Spain. The event lasts three days beginning on September 15 to the 17. It is estimated that 85,000 customers come to enjoy food, family activities and family and musical entertainment. It showcases rich traditions and the history of Mexico.

I think Food City has become one my favorite grocery stores to shop at. I like it because it's a unique shopping experience and they provide their customers with more than just one service.