Marbella Food suppliers: Lidl Supermarket - Bel-Air

by Morris Bishop
(San Pedro de Alcantara )

Unlikely as it is, this months TFS review, features a company that less than a decade ago would have been categorize as ‘bottom of the market’, but not any more. Granted we have only being using them for a little over a year, but during that time we have tried and compared at least 100 of their lines, not least amongst which was a 5 year blended Scotch Whisky called Glen Orchy, that during a blind taste test between Johnnie Walker Black label - Alde’s Highland Black and Chivas Regal. I had to repeat the test to finally come to correct identification between the two premiere distillations and the two budget version that are less than half the price, and now are my stock tipple.

Being an engineer I was very impressed with their customer controlled slicing machine that is embedded into the bread section, with deceptive simplicity it gives the option thick, medium, or thin cut, and has all the safety systems that prevents finger loss!

The building itself is light and airy with 5 main isles, and in the centre they have what I can only describe as a Bazaar where clothes, hand and power tools, household goods, toys, and consumables are displayed. This is an never ending rotation of ‘one off’ batches and when they are gone they are replaced with something else. Most the products are made in Germany, and as one would expect are of a good or very good quality.

There is a well stocked green grocery section, and extensive chill, and freezer cabinets for meat, fish and charcuterie. You will find some items marked ‘Premium’ and in our experience the difference is noticeable. In the Toiletry isle many of the items have the mark of Cien , which is their own brand, and I am informed by madam that she approves of the items that she has tried.

To sum up - this is a pleasant shopping experience, with products that stand up to, and in some cases exceed expectation, but at a price that gives excellent Value for money.
You have to get used to the slightly pressurised check-out, particularly with a large shop, as unless you organise yourself you can quickly become snowed under.

My wife has coined the phrase “Posh Nosh at Lidelle”

The V.S.
Lidl Supermercardos is on Urb. Bel-Air which is at km 156 on the N340 and they are open from 9:00 to 22:00 Monday to Saturday you can contact them on 902243222 their website is www.lidl.es They speak English and Spanish.

Please mention to the owner that this food shop was recommended in the "MarbellaFamilyFun.com" Newsletter. To see even more reviews on the best restaurants in Marbella, check out The Bishlin Guide.

DATE: June 2016