The food shopping scene in Philly has blossomed in recent years—where food deserts once existed, abundant choice is taking root. In addition to the robust farmers’ markets that grace our neighborhoods with weekly vendors, and CSAs cropping up to bring freshness directly to our homes (more on both of those in our digital edition!), permanent shops, from corporate to independent, have made it easier than ever to find healthy, organic food. Sometimes the choice is overwhelming! So, we’ve selected a few special places that offer a little something extra—whether it’s a unique setting or hard-to-find product— to help guide your shopping carts.

Whole Foods

2101 Pennsylvania Avenue

 

Ok, so the behemoth that is Whole Foods is an obvious entry that is certainly no “hidden gem,” but we are singling out its Art Museum area location as glorious destination shopping. Its “Restaurant Row” has outposts of Michael Solomonov restaurants Federal Donuts, Dizengoff, and Goldie so you can enjoy a decadent (and vegan) tehina shake while you shop, or combine Sunday brunch with your weekend errands in one fell swoop. Speaking of one-stop shopping, they also have a wine and beer store! You can even sit at the bar and enjoy a glass if you need a break. If you’re planning a birthday party (or just want a special treat), they have a full bakery with customization (and even gluten-free and vegan options). And Whole Foods is always our go-to for prepared foods (including holiday catering). This giant location also contains a mini shop with local gifts, from spa products to South Fellini’s fan gear. And thanks to Amazon buying Whole Foods, you can send your shipments here and pick them up at Amazon Locker, so you never have to worry about package thieves again!

 

MOM’s Organic Market

34 S. 11th St.

 

MOM’s is serious as a mother. They only sell organic produce, as well as 100 percent sustainable seafood. They are also a destination for hard-to-find products (they were selling macadamia nut milk long before anyone in town), and some non-traditional supplies. We’re talking backyard beekeeper supplies! Speaking of insects, you can also buy crunchy edible insects by the ounce, if that’s your thing. So, look no further if you’re craving whole roasted crickets!

 

 

Sprouts Farmers Market

1000 S. Broad St.

 

We rejoiced when this market opened on South Broad. The prices are great, including an extensive house brand. The produce section goes on for days, with both organic and conventional products to choose from. The bulk section is the best we’ve seen in the city—aisles and aisles of grains, nuts, you name it. There’s even a fancy olive oil station. They share a parking garage with Target and PetSmart (and a liquor store), so you can pick up any mainstream items next door if you may need on the same shopping trip.

 

GIANT Heirloom Market

1004 N. Second Street

  

The city’s third location of GIANT’s hyperlocal concept stores is its most exciting. This two-level 13,000-square-foot store includes “The Underground” with more than 40 craft beers, wines, hard seltzers, and hard kombucha on tap; plus a gaming area with classic arcade games, shuffleboard, and a Scrabble Wall!

 

 

Riverwards Produce

2200 E. Norris St.

 

Bringing quality produce and other food items to Fishtown, Riverwards is community-focused with an eye towards conservation. They source local ingredients and “ugly” produce that may not make it to big box supermarkets, and even have a “dollar bag” section for produce that may only have a few days of shelf life left. They also participate in a composting program on site.

 

Weavers Way Co-Op

Northwest Philadelphia

 

This long-running member-owned cooperative grocery store is focused on community and sustainability. While you don’t have to be a member to shop there, members get a say in the market’s initiatives, and discounts! The market also hosts community events, like Wellness Team info sessions, cooking workshops, meetups, and more.

 

Essene Market and Cafe

719 S. Fourth St.

 

This natural foods store in Queen Village is also a community center, hosting weekly classes and community celebrations, with meeting space for La Leche breastfeeding support and other gatherings. In addition to their impressive selection of organically grown produce and other natural products, their on-site bakery cafe’s treats are all dairy-free and made without refined sugar, so you can give into your toddler’s snack demands without feeling guilty!

 

Lead photograph by Laura Swartz.