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Publix has come a long way, baby. As the beloved supermarket chain celebrates its 88th birthday this year, we'd like to share some little-known secrets that may make your shopping experience there even more pleasurable.

Bakery: It's well-known that kids get free cookies in the bakery, but you can also get a 7-inch "smash cake" with the purchase of your baby's first birthday cake. The smaller replica is designed just for babies to enjoy and makes for a great, messy photo op.

Flowers: Publix offers custom floral arrangements and bridal bouquets, a service not commonly provided by most grocers. The store will even special order fresh-cut blooms upon request.

Seafood: Fishmongers will steam fish or shellfish free of charge while you wait. They also will split and prepare lobster tails to pop right into the oven.

Meat: Order whole pigs (at least 72 hours in advance) for Nochebuena (Christmas Eve) celebrations. Butchers also will butterfly the porkers for free so they're ready to roast.

Wine: Publix has its own black-label premium wines from California. Find bottles of Publix Premium Limited Edition wines in select stores, and get a free wine tote when you buy four bottles or more. Select Publix stores feature in-house wine specialists to help you navigate the wine aisle.

Publix Promise: The Publix Guarantee, part of founder George Jenkins' legacy, promises that the store will never knowingly disappoint you. On the flipside, if a staff member does something extra special for you, tell a manager. The employee will get a reward certificate good for a free meal in the deli.

Source: SunSentinel