Intermarche vs Lidl

[marcoxl5]

Coming out next Monday ( absolutely can't wait - 1st time ). As soon as we get there we will be stocking up on necessary supplies ( Rose, BBQ food etc. ). The Intermarche seems to be talked about a lot on here so I was just wondering `is it good value as large supermarkets go or would it be better to go to somewhere like Lidl ?`

[steve]

Intermarche is very conveniently situated and has a good butchery section. The deli counter sells probably the best english type ham around, albeit that it has a french name. Sadly prices can be high and there are never enough staff on the check out counters when it is busy. Intermarche is very popular with holidaymakers for whom convenience may well outweigh some of the factors that influence residents.

Lidl in Silves is cheaper but with less selection.

Modelo also in Silves is cheaper with a similar selection.

Overall I prefer Continente ( which is the same chain as Modelo) at Guia. Best selection, reasonable prices and excellent discounts on many items through their loyalty card plus discount voucher for petrol.

For unusual items I like Apolononia and on many prices I have found this cheaper than Intermarche. There is now a store at Gale although it does not stock such a comprehensive range as the main store at Almancil.

[heini]

We like Pao de Açucar (formerly Modelo) just off the 125 going West they have a very good selection and quite reasonable prices.

[marcoxl5]

Thanks very much for your thorough and detailed responses.

[rod...]

Though we like eating out, we also like preparing our own food and the odd bbq. Have previously shopped at Intermarche, but I am well aware of the price hike, though they do have a good butcher and deli. Is the Pingo Doce in Lagoa a better deal? Will obviously need to stock up on Sunday on the way in (should be before 12).

[EMM]

WE like Pinge Doce at lagoa for basics and wine certainly cheaper than Intermarche.

[Bruce Wallis]

The butchery department is certainly better at Intermarche'

[EMM]

We have started buying meat at pingo doce, it does not have the frills that Intermarche has but with lamb 2 euros/kg less we can do without the frills.
Has anyone tried the new butcher in CVO ( was blue rock ) ?

[Barry]

I didn't know that the butchers previously known as Blue Rock had reopened. Would also like an opinion. We usually use the butchery at Intermarche, because it always has a good selection of meat, and if what you want is not on show they are willing to try and find it for you in the cold store. At least the staff are butchers, unlike most of the staff in UK supermarkets. We do also shop around - Modelo in Silves, Pau de Acucar in Lagoa, as well as Pingo Doce, looking for bargains.

[kteee]

It seems that Blue Rock has been re-opened by Joao, the Portuguese guy who had it before

[Barry]

Don't remember using it in those days, kteee, was it any good?

[kteee]

I don't know, I don't eat meat!

[Gary/Gaynor]

I think a ton of dynamite is required to improve Intermarche its a bit like Tesco was 40 years ago Gaynor will tell you I never venture through those doors anymore. The old Modelo (in Lagoa)is a lot better plenty of room between the isles and more like a UK supermarket. Im not sure about price wise quality is probably the same. Intermache is closer though and LIdl is cheaper veg is good quality but choice is more limited on other items.

Gary

[EMM]

You are 110% right about Intermarche, we only go there for items we cannot get anywhere else .

Apart from expense it is badly organised cramped etc , it needs knocking down and rebuilt to 21st Century standards.

[Barry]

Actually, from one of Carol's diaries they were going to rebuild, which I admit they do need to do to keep up with recent competion. Not sure if anything is currently happening.