Those who live nearer to Porter Sq. may prefer the Star Market at Porter Square (876-1450). Open 24 hours except on Saturdays and Sundays (when open until midnight) and accessible to the Red Line T, this Star is great for those late-night snack urges, but tends to be more crowded than the one on Beacon Street.

Those living in the Central Sq. area can now take advantage of the new Star Market at MIT located at 26 Sidney St. (494-5250), open every day until midnight and accessible to the #1 Bus.

Between Union and Porter Squares, you will find Market Basket (400 Somerville Ave., 666-2420). It is often reported to be the least expensive grocery store around (especially for good, fresh produce). You may face a longer walk and somewhat limited selection; it also closes earlier than other area supermarkets.

For exotic cravings, head to Broadway Market (468 Broadway St., 547-2334), just steps from Harvard Yard, for a dizzying array of very high quality meats, cakes, cheeses, fruits, and prepared items -- with price tags to match the selection.

Don't underestimate the many neighborhood markets in the area, such as the Evergood Market (1647 Mass. Ave., 354-8331), north of Harvard Square. These independent grocers can provide excellent service and competitive prices, while contributing to the neighborhood economy.

If whole foods are your thing, there are several choices. The Harvest Cooperative Supermarket (581 Mass. Ave, 661-1580) in Central Square has an extensive selection of healthy and organic groceries, with discounts to members. Bread & Circus (115 Prospect St., 492-0070), a whole-foods supermarket chain, has top quality fruits and vegetables at appropriately large prices.

An interesting addition to the local food scene is Trader Joe's (727 Memorial Drive, 491-8582). You'll find an eclectic and often inventive collection of staples, snacks, sauces, frozen and fresh food, all at very reasonable prices.

For fruits and vegetables, the price and selection at Haymarket can't be beat. This weekly open-air market adjacent to Fanueil Hall/Quincy Market (Haymarket T stop) is packed with very cheap, very fresh produce each Friday and Saturday. Sifting through the fruits and vegetales Haymarket is a unique cultural adventure; you will hear a hundred different accents coming from a hundred different colorful, irritable vendors. On Saturday afternoon, when things are winding down, the prices can become ridiculously cheap.

Another option for buying groceries are online companies like Peapod. You buy your groceries online, and have them delivered to your door the next day. Saves time and hassle.