I keep wanting to like this place, but almost everything about it turns me off. \nThe closest way I can sum it up in one sentence?: Even though it lacks bars on the windows, the Corner Store feels like an inner city bodega from the 1980's. \nThe reason I want to like it is that it's run by a first generation immigrant Asian family who keep a pot of curry stewing at all times. This alone should contribute to an atmosphere of authenticity. But it does not, and the buck stops there. \n\nThe first thing that greets customers at the door is a ratty sign with a list of things not allowed inside: No Dogs, No Bikes, No Shirt No Shoes No Service.. etc. Common courtesy requests you would expect to be a given in any indoor establishment. The mere fact that the Corner Store sees the need to reinforce these requests with a large glaring sign says a lot about both its atmosphere and its clientele. \nThe staff is friendly enough, making it all the more difficult for me to attempt to be polite when I go in and can't for the life of me find anything to buy. This place has a fair amount of shelf and cooler space but doesn't even stock the essentials. There are a few cans of this or that beef stew and corn chowder, some styrofoam plates, toothpics, a liter of pepsi here, and a roll of mints there. But it's the epitome of hit-or-miss. Whether you're cooking dinner and ran out of Ketchup, or you're planning a picnic and forgot lemonade, don't count on this place to have what you're looking for. \n\nThere is a large hand-painted sign in one of the windows that advertises a \""Large Selection of Canned Ethnic Foods\"" This led me to expect something truly interesting or different. They certainly have the shelf space (and presumably the expertise) to offer the neighborhood a mini international food store. But as far as I can tell they don't carry anything international beyond what you can find at Hyvee. Huge letdown.\n\nAs far as the lunch menu, I found it overcooked, overpriced, lots of cheap ingredients, and not that tasty. I know The Corner Store can do better, which makes the experience all the more disappointing.