Looking for the best local organic grocers in Chicago? Search no more.
Best Overall: Southtown Health Foods is a fully stocked grocery store specifically for the health-conscious eater. The store features organic, vegetarian, natural, gluten-free, and dairy-free groceries; with organic produce, organic nut and bean bulk bins, herbs, supplements, health and beauty items (including conscious cosmetics!), all-natural cleaners, and books. Did I forget anything? Seriously, they have it all. Treat yourself to their (very reasonably priced) organic vegetable juice bar for an all-around satisfying shopping experience.
2100 W. 95th Street, Chicago, IL 60643. (773)233-1856. Store Hours: Mon-Wed 9:30am-5:30pm; Th 9:30am-8pm; Fri-Sat 9:30am-5:30pm; Sun Closed.
Also read: The Most Cost-Effective, Important Foods to Buy Organic
Best Produce: True to its original owner’s organic farming roots, New Leaf Natural Grocery continues to specialize in fresh organic produce. A small retail space also offers a smattering of natural and organic grocery items, natural health and beauty items, and eco-friendly cleaners. Customers can pick out their own organic produce at the store, or have a box delivered. New Leaf Natural announces box contents in their newsletter and on their website beforehand. If you’re eager for the small organic grocer experience and great produce, start here.
1261 W Loyola Avenue, Chicago, IL 60626. (773)743-0400. Store Hours: Mon-Fri 8am-7:30pm; Sat 9am-7:30pm; Sun 11am-6pm.
Also read: What to Buy Organic: 3 New Foods Added to “Dirty Dozen”
Best Meat: The on-site butcher shop at Morse Fresh Market in Rogers Park is a must-visit for organic consumers looking for grass-fed and organic meat outside a box. Although their meat selection is what sets this grocery store apart compared to other natural food stores, it is worth bringing your entire grocery list – they also carry organic groceries and produce at great prices. Expect a slightly cramped, bustling atmosphere; a byproduct of their large selection and the store’s popularity. 1430 W. Morse Avenue, Chicago, IL 60626. (773) 973-3765. Store Hours: Mon-Sat 7am-9pm; Sun 7am-8pm.
Best Delivery: Timber Creek Farms Organics offers USDA certified organic produce, organic meat, and organic dairy products; as well as pantry and household items from organic and natural food distributors. Not only is it awesome to find a large organic grocery selection in one place, but customers can also bundle all of their purchases in one convenient delivery. TCF’s specialty is organic produce boxes with a surprise selection of seasonal items. Don’t worry if a random produce selection is out of your culinary comfort zone – they offer a build-your-own “Picky Produce” box, too. Expect to leave a message or send an email for customer service, or even to place an order – it’s rare to talk to someone on demand. Delivery routes anywhere within 100 miles of Yorkville, IL. Call to find out your route schedule: (630)553-1119. Customer Service Hours: Monday-Friday 8am-5pm.
Chicagoans are also working on a new food cooperative: The Dill Pickle.
Also read: Hype or Health? Everything You Should Know About Organic Food
Reference:
The Environmental Working Group Shopper’s Guide to Pesticides www.foodnews.org/
