If you get your weekly groceries on the Upper West Side, you might need a backup plan.
The Trader Joe’s at West 72nd Street and Broadway is temporarily closing for “major renovations” starting next month.
According to a physical sign currently posted outside the store, the last day to shop will be May 17, 2026.
The neighborhood staple promises that the closure is only temporary, noting: “We promise not to be gone too long & will reopen as soon as we can! This is not a goodbye but a see you later!”
Why is it closing?
Trader Joe’s hasn’t officially stated exactly what is being renovated. However, this massive 12,500-square-foot location is widely known as one of the chain’s busiest stores in the entire world.
The store handles heavy daily foot traffic across its two levels. It relies on four different escalators—including a specific escalator just for shopping carts—to move people through the cramped aisles.
Given the constant wear and tear of thousands of daily shoppers, it’s safe to say the space is due for a refresh.
The Upper West Side grocery wars
This closure comes at a tough time for local shoppers. The Upper West Side has long been known for its iconic food culture.
From the historic Fairway Market on 74th Street to Citarella and Zabar’s, Broadway is a grocery lover’s paradise.
Unfortunately for Trader Joe’s, they will soon face some heavy competition.
Wegmans is currently working on its own massive 59,000-square-foot Broadway location between West 64th and 65th streets inside a former Bed Bath & Beyond.
Until the 72nd Street location reopens, savvy New Yorkers can head to the neighborhood’s second Trader Joe’s outpost on 92nd Street and Columbus Avenue.
(Pro tip: Try to shop on Tuesdays and Wednesdays to avoid the massive lines!)
