Arlan’s Market

This place is what it is.
Formally City Market, not much has changed with the new Alan branding — however, it looks like the new ownership (?) did invest some money into updating the cash register areas (new credit card swipe machines, etc.).
As others have said, this place is convenient for basic items and not much else. I do give them credit however, for operating a grocery store in an area that is generally lower-​income, and meetings the needs of the surrounding neighborhoods.
Arlan’s is very much like a grocery store in a small town — not much selection, and the omnipresent smell of moth balls/​petrochemical-​based fragrances. (You can even take this smell home with you when you buy a box of crackers or any other item that is not fresh or sealed up in a can.)
The staff and service here is varied. Though not a big issue, I am still amazed that the cashiers here will often not make make eye contact and will continue to text/​play on their cellphones as they run your groceries over the scanner and complete your transaction. Again, not a big issue, but something one must accept when going here.
BTW — I am convinced this is the most messed up parking lot in the city (I have lived in Austin for 20 years and have been going to this store for 9). Be careful and remember to drive defensively. In fact, I recommend parking as far out as possible and walking the rest of the way…

This is a very clean and neat grocery store.
Prices were very reasonable, although the selection is not as extensive as some of the larger chain stores.
Produce was nice, with a decent selection.
The staff was very friendly, and they were not difficult to find when I had a questions.
It wasn’t packed even though I went in the middle of the day on a Sunday afternoon, which is a huge plus.
I live east, and this is much more convenient than making the trek all the way down to 7^th & Pleasant Valley or all the way up to Manor & 183.
I’ll be coming here for all my quick «in-​between» shopping trips.

It can seem a little shady in here, sure, but that’s anything on Airport. Arlan’s has always met my needs. I don’t do my primary shopping here but I’ve stopped by for cookie dough, eggs, La Croix, fruits or veggies, and even dinner. They have a large selection of meat here (as in, every part of the animal) so I snagged a pork butt, some mole sauce in a jar and onions; 12 hours later my crockpot was brewing with goodness.
Parking can be limited if you come right after work. I receommend you sneak out the back by the bank if you are going north on Airport so you can get the light.

As far as I can tell, there is no fish here that’s not breaded and frozen or in a can. Odd. Also lame.
They’ve got some Mexican and Latin American foods, so that’s cool. Still, no fish? How is this a market? Left without crossing off numerous items on my list that I could have found even at the HEB.