A grocery store that opened last year in Wellington, Florida, has quickly become a favorite among locals thanks to its user-friendly design.
This particular Publix supermarket allows customers to push carts equipped with cupholders, while enjoying craft beer or mimosas and munching on pizza as they shop.
It’s even picked up the playful nickname “Crablix” from headlines and shoppers who appreciate the chain’s slogan, “The Place to Shop.”
“I have nothing but praise.”
The Wellington store features Publix Pours, a full bar offering beer, wine, coffee, smoothies, and acai bowls. There’s also a burrito counter for customers to create their own Chipotle-style meals—without an extra charge for guacamole.
And let’s not forget the popcorn station, which has quirky flavors like caramel, dill pickle, and Oreo.
Store manager Joe Seguin shared his enthusiasm: “I have nothing but praise for this store, which is affectionately known as ‘Clublix.'” He noted that the unique offerings have fostered a sense of community among regular customers and staff alike.
“There are mothers who enjoy happy hour here as well,” Seguin added. “On Sundays, I watch games while sipping local craft beer, which makes grocery shopping a bit more enjoyable for my wife and me.”
“Once or twice a week”
For many residents, this Publix isn’t just another grocery store.
Sarah Thayer, a local mom, mentioned, “We come here at least once or twice a week. The kids love the smoothies they make at the bar here.” She finds the atmosphere to be more manageable than a restaurant, especially with two small children in tow. “Mom always grabs her coffee while we’re here,” she added.
Nearby, another customer raved to a staff member, “This is the best acai bowl in Palm Beach County.”
“Bringing people together”
Since its opening almost a year ago, the excitement around the store has spread, attracting shoppers from as far away as Miami, roughly 110 miles south.
Food creators like Kevin Escalera have played a role in promoting this Publix as a must-visit spot through their social media reviews. Escalera, a Miami-based food influencer, remarked that he’d never come across a grocery store featuring a bar.
He noted, “The Publix Pours area was enjoyable because it’s a unique way to gather people.” Though initially skeptical, he was surprised by the crowd during his visit.
While he appreciated the pizza and popcorn, he felt the burrito was lackluster, comparing it to “college cafeteria food.” Still, he concluded that the trip was worthwhile.
“Other options”
Even though Publix has locations across Florida and beyond, the Wellington store remains a standout on social media platforms.
Maria Braus, the communications director for Publix, expressed that this concept might expand to more locations in the future. “As we continue to grow, we have opportunities to incorporate similar features in new stores,” she explained.
She emphasized the importance of offering customers more choices, especially in today’s fast-paced world, allowing them to make their shopping experience more convenient.
