Guided by the principles of hard work, humility, and community service instilled by our families
we remain committed to giving back to those who have enabled our success.
Thrifty Specialty Produce & Meats remains guided by the principles instilled by both families: hard work, humility, and service to the community. Its story is not only one of growth and perseverance but also a testament to the American Dream, where dedication and determination know no limits.
Our History
The roots of Thrifty Specialty Produce & Meats trace back to the 1960s, when the founder’s grandfather returned from Naval service and opened a small grocery business in the Dominican Republic. Carrying on the legacy, his father immigrated to the United States in 1983 and, just three years later, opened a bodega in Brooklyn. From the age of 14, he worked alongside his father, learning the values of hard work, perseverance, and community that continue to guide the business today.
In 2001, the family journey led to Florida, where Plaza Popular Supermarket opened in Kissimmee, a Latin-centric establishment that he helped manage for 10 years. Around the same time, his wife’s family shared a similar path. Her parents migrated to the U.S. in the early 1980s, opened a small grocery store in Manhattan, and later established El Grande Supermarket in Tampa in 2005.In 2011, he and his father-in-law seized the opportunity to purchase Thrifty Specialty Produce in Palm Bay, FL from the Bak family, rebranding it as Thrifty Specialty Produce & Meats.
Today, the flagship Palm Bay location employs over 60 people, while the Rockledge store has more than 50. Additional locations in Melbourne and St. Cloud contribute another 50 employees each, creating a family of dedicated team members who keep the mission alive.
About Us
Nestled in the heart of Palm Bay and Rockledge, Thrifty Specialty Produce & Meats has become a trusted destination for quality, value, and authentic flavors. We take pride in offering top-tier products, outstanding service, and an exceptionally clean shopping experience all while keeping affordability at the core of what we do.
What truly sets us apart is our expertise in specialty produce and our wide variety of fresh meat cuts, giving customers options far beyond what conventional chain supermarkets provide. Our shelves are lined with a diverse selection of traditional and international grocery items, representing the vibrant flavors of South America, the Caribbean, Asia, the Middle East, and the Mediterranean.
We also feature the largest fresh seafood selection in the county, complete with personalized service whether you prefer your fish cleaned, gutted, cut, or filleted, our team is here to prepare it just the way you like.
Our full-service Hot Food Bar offers freshly prepared Latin dishes, made daily from scratch, while our catering services bring those same bold flavors to local businesses and private events. The experience continues in our in-house Bakery, where we craft authentic Latin pastries, breads, and desserts every morning, paired perfectly with hot beverages like Cuban-style coffee, oatmeal, and hot chocolate.
A visit to our Hot Food Bar and Bakery is more than a meal, it’s a culinary journey that can transport you to the streets of Latin America or the vibrant energy of Miami.
Unlike traditional supermarkets, we go straight to the source. By purchasing directly from farmers and markets, we ensure our produce is always at peak freshness while passing those savings directly on to our customers.
At Thrifty, we don’t just sell food, we deliver flavor, freshness, and tradition at a price everyone can enjoy.
Our Values
Community-Centric Approach
We prioritize our community’s needs and well-being, striving to be a cornerstone of support and collaboration in every endeavor.
Family Values
We celebrate diversity and embrace the rich tapestry of cultures represented in our community. Our wide selection of international foods reflects our commitment to inclusivity and cultural appreciation.
Quality Assurance
We are committed to sourcing the freshest produce, finest meats, and diverse international foods, ensuring top-notch quality in every product we offer.
Cultural Diversity and Inclusivity
We celebrate diversity and embrace the rich tapestry of cultures represented in our community. Our wide selection of international foods reflects our commitment to inclusivity and cultural appreciation.
Philanthropy and Community Engagement
Giving back is ingrained in our ethos. We actively engage in philanthropic initiatives and community outreach efforts, leveraging our resources to make a positive impact on those in need.
Customer Satisfaction
Our customers are at the heart of everything we do. We go above and beyond to provide exceptional service, personalized attention, and a welcoming shopping experience.
Environmental Responsibility
We recognize our responsibility to minimize our environmental footprint. Through sustainable practices and eco-friendly initiatives, we strive to contribute positively to the health of our planet.
Support for Local Producers
We prioritize partnerships with local farmers and producers, supporting the local economy and promoting sustainable agriculture practices.
Integrity and Transparency
Honesty and transparency guide our actions. We operate with integrity in all aspects of our business, maintaining trust and credibility with our customers, suppliers, and employees.
Continuous Improvement
We are dedicated to ongoing growth and learning. By seeking feedback, embracing innovation, and adapting to changing needs, we continuously improve our offerings and operations.
