A food store is any kind of shop or retail space which specializes in packaged or selectable food or drink products, mainly for consumption off the premises. Unlike gastronomy usages, food stores usually sell raw or unprepared items, which may or may not be ready for consumption (depending on the nature of the item).

The products can be ready to eat or require preparation, depending on the food. Raw or unprepared goods are usual but not mandatory.

Gastronomy concerns the prepared-food and drink services described in its own definition. The food store mainly supplies products taken away for consumption elsewhere.