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Ashland-Lake (Green Line, Pink Line)
- Hours:
Mon-Fri 10 am - 9 pm
Sat-Sun 9 am - 9 pm
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$$
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108 reviews for Green Grocer Chicago
Review Highlights
"Cassie and her team are welcoming and charming."
(in 32 reviews)
"And yum yum to all the other delicious organic-y stuff."
(in 47 reviews)
"...some essentials, and some local products and produce all in..."
(in 8 reviews)
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108 reviews in English
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Review from Amy R.
Chicago, IL
Updated - 11/2/2011
Updating because this is even better than when we first moved in. They've rearranged a couple times and I'm amazed at how many different things they manage to stock in a relatively small space. Their produce is in-season and fresh, and there's more of it then ever before. Bonus that it's local and/or organic. We did their produce box program for a while which was excellent (we stopped because we got so stupid busy for a while that we were never home to use the food :( -- but it's good to know it's there when life lets up a little).
This was also a frequent stop during the time I was unemployed -- I knew on bad days I could always get a snack and a smile. And I often still go in just for that
(seriously, though, if they kept my purchase history, I'd probably be mortified to see how often I walk out with chips & salsa and blood orange soda ... ).1 Previous Review: Show all »
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9/16/2009
Love this place. We moved in a few blocks away, and it wasn't a month before everybody here knew my… Read more »
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Review from Kat T.
Chicago, IL
11/1/2011
I've entered into the Promised Land! It overflows with milk, honey, and large succulent grapes the size of eggs! Baskets, crates, boxes full of organically vibrant fruits and vegetables. Shelves bursting with organic goods that would make Whole Foods green with organic envy. Organically made icing on this gluten free cake is its Eco friendliness to my recycled wallet. Before I sit to enjoy my organic meal, I'll bow my head and pray a blessing for the Green Grocer. Amen!
Ok ok...I couldn't resist writing the above, and though it may be a bit overboard, I just really wanted to get across that this is really a great local store worth checking out.
They have fruits and vegetables that are in season. It's a plus that they are organically grown and brought in locally. They accept credit (min $10) and cash. Anything that is priced above $4 are for items that are really rare and difficult to find anywhere else. The staff is super friendly and available to help out if you have questions, concerns, or just want to be social.
Don't be shy about asking about their CSA program. It's a good deal!
If your in the area, definately check them out before heading to Whole Foods. -
Review from Kristen H.
Chicago, IL
1/26/2012
As holiday gifts, I purchased some of Mama's Nuts. I realized a few days before heading out of town for the holidays that I needed some more and I saw that the Green Grocer sold them. The store is smaller, but it's jammed pack with organic goodness and other specialty type of products. The place had quite a few people in and out and the service was extremely friendly. I'll hit it up again when not on a mission to really see what they carry.
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Review from Kymberly J.
Oak Park, IL
11/12/2011 3 Check-ins Here
Where can you go and get fresh, seasonal, organic, local produce outside of farmers market season? The Green Grocer! They have an amazing selection of seasonal finds for such a tiny store. They also have local and sustainable meat and cheese and all sorts of other culinary treats. You can also buy a CSA subscription for pick up.
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Review from Ann S.
Chicago, IL
12/14/2011
While the prices here can seem a bit high compared to Whole Foods, the convenience and service make it worth the trip. The owner gives off such good vibes that a visit here could probably substitute for a daily dose of prozac. She's seriously nice, and obviously loves her regulars. When you can't face the chaos and stroller demolition derby/parking lot wars of Whole Paycheck, Green Grocer is a godsend. You can find most of your organic essentials here, and usually, a few garden-fresh veggies as well. The bulk bins almost always turn my head with at least one great deal. If you're running late for a dinner party, you can depend on Green Grocer to have an interesting bottle of wine or cool, indie brew of some sort. If you live in River West/Noble Square, this is a neighborhood gem you should know about.
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Review from Yumm y.
Chicago, IL
7/1/2011
Green Grocer is fab! I did a lot of research on CSAs and Green Grocer's produce share program is (from what I can tell) the best deal in town. Superb quality produce, huge amount for the price and no risks since you can pay month to month and cancel at any time. That was the biggest factor for me. On a social work salary, CSAs can been a daunting commitment.
Thanks GG! -
Review from Francesca L.
Chicago, IL
6/5/2011
Green Grocer is a great local store. I opted in for their summer produce share for the first time and it is going great. The produce has been plentiful and of very high quality. The owner sends weekly emails about that week's produce and includes a few recipes. It is really a fun way to try new fruits and veggies and support a local store and farmer(s).
I've picked up all sorts of groceries here and everything is great. I am pretty lucky to have such an amazing store so close to me. I love how they carry local Chgo brands also. -
Review from Meridith E.
Chicago, IL
7/4/2011
This place is amazing to get some great local produce and specialty items. I like that Green Grocer partners with the school up the street for introducing new food and teaching about agriculture and produce.
I got our Thanksgiving turkey here and was told that it will now become a tradition.
Overall for everyday shopping, it's a bit out of my way, but if I'm in the area, I plan on stopping in to get some unique treats....like their vegan "cheese" dip and meats. -
Review from Caity G.
10/17/2011 3 Check-ins Here
I love having a convenient place to pick up a few items in a pinch, and it's a major bonus that it's local! Perfect place to grab some fresh veggies, cheese, and many jarred/packaged items that you find in the farmer's markets. Definitely going to join the produce share program!
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Review from Kristen S.
Chicago, IL
3/23/2011
Fantastic store! I love that they have so much in this space - local, organically grown food!
The staff is friendly, and I get coupons in the mail almost monthly (maybe bi-monthly - regardless it is a great deal). We have discovered new local brands we adore - Kilgus, Castle Rock Farm, Localfolks, CouplaGuys, Chicago Flats, Red Hen... the list goes on!
Parking is on the street and surprisingly easy. They have a *ton* of gluten free items that I cannot find even at Whole Foods. I love it here. I do not have to even go to Whole Foods anymore - and I am saving money! And I am shopping local!!! -
Review from Colleen C.
Brooklyn, NY
2/1/2011 1 Check-in Here
Admission: I go to GREAT lengths to avoid grocery shopping. Takeout, delivery, Peapod, Foodler, leftovers, quick trips to 7-11 for eggs and creamer, random meals composed of things in the pantry. I could go months without a real, honest-to-God grocery excursion.
I just hate it, the whole experience. Parking, fighting people with carts, standing in line. To get 10 items it could take an hour and I do not find this efficient. HATE IT! Especially in the winter when I must park 4 miles from my home, lug things up stairs, and for what!? To eat good food. Well, ok...you've got me there.
/end rant.
So, to sum things up...I'd been trapped. My significant other (who prefers real food) asked me to pick up items for dinner on my way home. Oy. I quickly scanned my options and when left with Dominick's or Jewel, I began to sulk and feel annoyed.
Then, I remembered Green Grocer...right next to the Pinky Nails on Grand/Noble that I had walked by many times. Open til 9pm on a Sunday!? Let's do this!
Quickly parked right out front (15 minute flasher zone), zipped in...picked up my lot of groceries, paid and was out within 10 minutes. No joke. Praise the lord, I can save face in front of my man (no delivery tonight!) get wonderful food, and get the hell out of here in record time!
The bonus? They have a GREAT selection for being so small. Tons of wonderful organic (Gunthorp individual chicken breasts!) and local products (think local bakeries like Bennison's, Delightful Pastries, Fig Catering, etc).
I picked up some great bread, cheese, tomato soup (this is as gourmet as it gets for me folks!), cookies, kombucha (tried a new brand that rocked my socks off made in WI), granola and yogurt..
Yes, a tad pricey...but WAY worth it for the quality and ease in getting in and out. The girls were pretty friendly, everything is well stocked and shelved and they have a great little local spirits/beer/wine section. If it's not enough there is a wine store just next door as well.
Support local grocery AND save time. I'm in.Listed in: IndieGrocery.
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Review from Brit R.
Chicago, IL
11/9/2011
I went to check out Green Grocer because someone on another post had recommended it as a good place to go for local foods. I happened to be in the area visiting a friend so I stopped in. I have to say I do not understand what all the hype is. There was next to nothing in the produce section, it's very cramped and a tight squeeze, and the products were nothing out of the ordinary. I ended up getting some spices that I had been needing which were not well priced and I got a gluten free cupcake thing that was an impulse buy. It was so unappetizing that I took one bite and threw the rest away. The worst part is it was really expensive. It is probably a good place to go for a last minute ingredient but there is not a chance I would go out of my way to come back.
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Review from Leang E.
6/30/2011
I am so glad this little store is here. It has been my life saver for all the things that I have run out of at home. What is great is that the stuff is organic and pretty fresh items. In addition to fresh veggies, they have a decent selection of beer and wine, cute foodie birthday cards, and cleaning products as well. The staff is very helpful and friendly. The prices are a little more on the higher end, but is to be expected with a higher quality items and in a small location. I certainly appreciate the convenience.
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Review from Gina S.
Chicago, IL
5/15/2010
As background, I went to the Green Grocer about a year ago and wasn't impressed--by the size, prices, selection, etc. They did have some unique items, and some of the best peaches I've eaten, but I went on and forgot about the little store on Grand.
About six months ago, I starting paying more attention to my health-- watched Food, Inc, read Jillian Michael's book, Master your Metabolism--and then I was convinced I needed to change. I started buying more organic, local products the past six months or so. I've shopped Dominick's, Trader Joe's and Whole Paycheck (and still shop at each sometimes for certain things), but now I am doing more shopping at the Green Grocer.
What brought me back is their seasonal produce box. I researched quite a few CSA's trying to find one that would work for me. What I like about the Green Grocer's box is they offer a selection of fruits and vegetables. Most places I found only offered vegetables, or you could buy a separate all-fruit box. I was also able to score a 10% discount by paying in full by an early deadline.
As other reviews have stated, the staff is super friendly. When I picked up my produce box this week, I let them know I was going to pass on the rhubarb, but they could donate if they want, and they let me choose some extra spinach instead. My understanding is most CSA's do not allow substitutions.
Yes, it can be more expensive (probably not more than Whole Foods tho), but I swear every single thing I pick up there is fresh and tasty. I like supporting the "little guy", so I am willing to pay a bit more for that--and to know that I am getting fresh, wholesome food. -
Review from Rachel H.
7/17/2010
Yay for Green Grocer! I'm glad to have a place to buy my milk and eggs that's a bit closer than my beloved Dill Pickle Co-op. While Green Grocer may not have the co-op aspect that Dill Pickle does, it has many other awesome qualities including beer and wine, and also, again, closer proximity to my home.
Green Grocer has a number of my other favorite items including Upton's seitan and Nice Cream! I love Nice Cream. It makes me into an ice cream eating monster.
I plan to make this a regular stop, especially since their recently extended hours coincide nicely with the time of evening at which I might be finishing up dinner at Oggi. Mmmm dinner.... -
Review from Anne S.
4/20/2010
I am just starting to pay attention to what goes into my food, and the more I learn, the more important it is to eat organic and or fresh ingredients (unprocessed food). I know this concept seems really obvious to a lot of people, but I am apparently slow when it comes to food.
So now that it matters where my food comes from, it is much harder to buy food. Green Grocer makes it easy to buy fresh, organic, locally grown/made food.
Yes it is on the expensive side, however I think it is worth it.
We buy a produce box that arrives here every Monday, and the boxes have been really good so far.
I'm glad I found Green Grocer because I have been doing much better about eating well since I found the place!
Oh, and the staff at Green Grocer are so nice and friendly! -
Review from Kathleen T.
Chicago, IL
3/29/2010
Calling all locavores! I'm not one, but I'm proud to have this place in my neighborhood. They're just the friendliest folks selling food you feel good about. It's been a while since I did the big bank-busting trip to Whole Foods. Why bother? Now I can drop by any night of the week to see what sounds good. Delicious pork, wonderful tilapia, lovely produce and so on. And oh joy, they've got the only packaged meals I'll eat anymore -- Annie Chun's soup bowls. Yum.
Plus, how cute is the table with food "free to a good home"?
My only wish? That it could be just a bit roomier. But oh, for the love of food, don't move in order to make it happen! -
Review from Rob L.
Chicago, IL
8/8/2009 1 Check-in Here
Moving in to a new area, you need a few things. You need to know where you live. You need to know where the keys are that open where you live. You need to know where the best place is to get Thai, pizza and other ethnic foods your taste buds might crave. You also need to know where you can get some quick staples when you run out. This is where the Green Grocer comes in.
I needed a quick sandwich. Substance to help sustain myself for the next few hours. Where to go... oh look! With in a block of my new abode Green Grocer came a callin'.
Yooo hooooo!!! Look at what I have here. A few sandwiches, smattering of goods. Oh look pasta. Cheese. Meat. Veggies. Fruit. Dairy. Gelato.
Oh wait. Back that bus up. Gelato?
Just a few dozen flavors.
Behold my flavonoids! I have been known to partake in a few sweet treats every now and then. And then. And then. And then... so lucky me I scooped, (yes, that was a pun), some of these soft and rich desserts. The Ciao Bella Tahitian Vanilla certainly won out, but more than anything I really won out with living so close to this place. Super friendly staff, helpful, warm and made me feel at home. The sandwich I got? Wonderfully tasty and inhaled quickly. They have cards where you buy so many, you get a free one. Oh and you're worried about forgetting yours if you get one? No worries. They keep it on file for you.
The prices are a little pricey, but you want to know why? Everything in the place is certified organic. They also try and keep everything locally sustainable and how can you not appreciate that?
You have a small store, that has a friendly staff, a pretty small but cool selection of items that are organic. Plus they have tastings through out the month, (please check their website). Um yeah. Thanks Green Grocer. You not only make me feel at home, but you're making me never want to leave either.
Thanks!! -
Review from Katie H.
Chicago, IL
6/6/2009
Grocery shopping in the big city is often as much fun as a long day at the DMV or say... accidentally setting your pubes on fire. I don't know how the latter would ever "accidentally" happen but if it could you know it would suck.
Making fun of grocery stores is about as easy as saying Courtney Love is a terrible mother. It's not really necessary, but I find it entertaining and I like to do so.
Sub Par Grocery Stores
1. Aldi - try coming here and not feeling like you're slumming it. If you don't feel like that, well... god I dunno... socioeconomics can uh...be a bitch...? Sorry about your crushing poverty? Please take comfort in knowing I have my own special corner reserved in Hell for writing this and God will probably smile on you in the long run.
2. Strack and Van Til. For people who like to shop at Kohl's and get their hair cut at BoRics. Use the term "good deal" way too much... large positive correlation of these people bitch about the city being very expensive and yet drive large vehicles. Get a lot of stupid tickets somehow.
3. Jewel. The Queen Mother of all suckitude. Can't even begin. The set up of this store is the most anti feng shui you've ever seen. Every person who works in this store hates you and your ass face.
OK I don't have a lot of money to burn myself but I've gotten to the point where I'm willing to spend a little more on groceries in order to have a wonderful shopping experience and really good quality stuff.
Yes. I did just say "wonderful shopping experience." I actually look forward to coming to Green Grocer. Everyone who I've met that works here (Cassie & Kim) has taken the time to not only say hello but ask me my name and make awesome suggestions about cool products I should try.
Have you ever had garlic beet dip before? I assure you, it's phenomenal. I'm not even a beet fan and Kim had me try a little bit and it was freakin' great. They've always got multiple free samples out. Even better, every Tuesday night they have "Tasting Tuesday" from 5-7pm.
I simply cannot hype this place enough. I've loved everything I've ever eaten from here. So many of their products are local too. It's fun to find out about all the good folks who are cranking out tasty, honest food right in our city.
If you crave the robotic anonymity of those self-checkout machines that get confounded if you try to scan more than one item in 30 seconds - then yeah, stick to Jewel. Enjoy whiling away a solid 5 minutes until some loafy employee finally saunters over with the "liquor key" and stares blankly at your ID.
I'll stick to Green Grocer. -
Review from Denise P.
Chicago, IL
6/24/2009
I love this place!!! A small little shop with everything you need, reasonable prices, a great selection of wine/beer/spirits, and even produce. Guess what else? It's all local and/or organic! If this place was by my house I'd go EVERY day. So would my neighbors. Especially on Boozeday Tuesday where they have tastings from 5-7pm!!
Cassie the owner is super nice. I met her yesterday when I went for the wine tasting. I bought some beer and granola bars, because we weren't going home and I can't leave cold food in the car. See ya again for more food when I hitch a ride and it's not 110 degrees out! -
Review from Laura B.
Chicago, IL
1/24/2008
UPDATE: MARCH 2008
So, this is still the greatest corner store in the city, and they now have their liquor license, so it's even better. GG stocks a nice variety of beer (including Bell's!), wine (about $10 a bottle and up), and spirits. They've also got a cooler so you can walk in, get a six pack, walk home, and enjoy it immediately. Not much is better than that.
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Original Review:
Yahoooo! I can barely contain the excitement I have about this brand new addition to my neighborhood. Our near west side 'hood has a convenience store (Candy's) and a great Italian food shop (Bari), but nothing that offers a big selection of fresh, natural, and organic food. Until now!
GG is the center store in the ground-level retail portion of a new condo building on the corner of Grand and Noble. It's small but well stocked with fresh baked goods (pre-made sandwiches from Greg Christian catering down the street and sweets from the newly relocated Bleeding Heart Bakery) soaps and recycled paper products, rices, soups, organic milk and yogurt, fresh meats, frozen veggies and desserts, fresh veggies and fruits (including individually sold Clementine oranges!), cooking staples like flour and sugar, chips, cookies, juices, and of course more that I haven't mentioned.
Cassie, one of the owners (and a lovely woman!) chatted with me for a few minutes, and she mentioned that they were working on getting their liquor license to add beer and wine to the shelves. It might be a wee bit more expensive than Trader Joe's (but their veggies are better quality), but it's on par (cheaper, probably) with Whole Foods, and better because it's just around the corner! They discount your groceries if you bring in your own bags, but the "plastic" bags they use are actually made from corn and biodegradable.
They also, according to my husband, sell coffee by the cup, which is nice. I'm looking forward to being a repeat offender here, and supporting another local joint!Listed in: My Neighborhood
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Review from Vanessa R.
Chicago, IL
7/19/2011
Green Grocer is not only a sustainable, smart, delicious and community oriented business, but Green Grocer is romantic!
This past March, I got married in Chicago. We wanted to have a zero-waste and community sustainable wedding, and knew that in order to accomplish this task we needed the right business but we needed the right business with the heart. Green Grocer was where we went. Cassie and her staff were not only the most accommodating and inspiring, they brought more than just excellent customer service, they brought their own ideas and resources to the table. My husband is a organic farmer and a very special way in with Green Grocer helped us shape our wedding was by letting us grow and provide our own salad greens. Another way Cassie made our day special was she helped us find a sustainable source for the lobster bisque soup we wanted served at dinner (my husbands favorite). Now that is going above and beyond, being in the Midwest and no where near the ocean!!
And just in case anyone does not know, besides having a very fulfilling array of foods at Green Grocer, Cassie is a tremendous chef! The food made and catered by GG was outstanding! We are still receiving compliments on the food provided.
Green Grocer basically can do everything! Great shopping options, great staff, great catering and lastly, Cassie Green really makes this place a place to continue returning to again and again. We are looking forward to a long relationship with GG and Cassie. Start shopping there immediately! -
Review from Beth M.
4/17/2009
I first went to Green Grocer for a raw foods demonstration (and tasting!) and have been back for more. The store hosts little workshops and demos every week. (Sign up for their email list or check the website for info.) Cassie, the owner, it super-friendly and helpful; she even takes requests for what people want. Now that's service!
Since it's limited in size (and thus selection), I don't think I could consider it my primary grocery store. However, they have bulk bins of several dry staples, such as beans and spices, which would be great for stocking up the pantry. The produce section seems fresher than what I see at most chain stores. It also offers many specialty (vegan, raw, etc.) items that I might not find elsewhere, for example, "Teese" vegan cheese. Some things are kind of pricey, but it's no different from what you'd pay at Whole Foods.
Supporting a locally owned small business that offers locally produced and organic items seems like the right thing to do. I wish it was closer to where I live though; it seems like a convenient place to drop in.Listed in: Vegan Cheese, Vegan Groceries
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Review from Patrick W.
Chicago, IL
4/23/2011 15 Check-ins Here
This place is killer! I'd been wanting to stop by since we moved back into the area. Finally we did today. Grabbed everything we needed to make some NON-GMO lunch (veggi burgers, produce for toppings, some BBQ sauce, chips, Daisy Cutter). Signed up for the weekly produce, which is a sweet sweet deal. $17 a week and you get fresh local produce! I love supporting the local farms and this place makes it easy!
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Review from Dave C.
Chicago, IL
7/14/2011
Unique salsa and beer options keep me coming back. Very cool neighborhood grocery store holding down the Grand/Noble corner.
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Review from Rachel W.
Chicago, IL
7/2/2010
Everyone that works here is super friendly, even when I typically walk over from PInkys nails in non-environmentally friendly pedicure flips. Never any judgment.
Lots of fresh produce, gluten-free options, legumes/nuts station, frozen organic section, house-hold cleaners, wine, organic pet food, etc. Basically it's organic 7-11, without the chain factor.
Plus, they have local take-out items, like mirai sushi, wraps, and other lunch options.
I recommend getting your nails done at Pinkys then walking next door to pick up dinner! -
Review from coco m.
Chicago, IL
7/1/2011
I love this place and am so glad we live in the neighborhood. Super friendly people, great vibe. If it seems a little pricey, that's because you're paying the actual full price of your food here and not shrugging it off as negative externalities to be paid for with your health, your children's health, your environment, etc. Also: Tuesday Boozeday.
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Review from Robin W.
Chicago, IL
Updated - 7/22/2009
i should have updated this a while ago! Green Grocer has really grown into a great place, and they do now offer a variety of affordable prepared foods, and vegan to-go meals and pastries which is awesome.
They get lots of organic and locally grown produce, like the best tomatoes from City Farm, and they offer a lot of Chicago Soy Dairy products in addition to local companies like Uptons, Vegan Gourmet, Totally Vegan, and Soul Vegetarian. And don't worry, its not all vegan stuff, they also have specialty cheeses and locally-corn-fed-free-ranged-raised-or-whatever-yo u-have-to-tell-your-self-to-justify-it meats.
You get a discount for being environmental and bringing a canvas bag, and they give discounts for washing out jars and returning them.
Also, they keep a tally on prepared food items you buy, like the best Vegan Jalapeno Queso you'll ever try, and I think you get a free item when you buy 10.
Best part, they have a liquor sales license now, so you can pop in for a bottle of wine (their selection rocks) and walk over to your favorite BYOB on Grand Ave.
Awesome place that takes care of their customers and deserves your support!1 Previous Review: Show all »
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2/13/2008
I'm torn.
I love that a good natured health grocer opened up in my neighborhood! But I hate that… Read more »
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Review from Jesse S.
Chicago, IL
7/17/2008
Can I do a little happy dance for locally grown produce?
-- happy dance -- happy dance -- wiggle wiggle -- happy dance
Thumbs up for the super fresh local arugula and mushrooms.
Also three cheers for the refillable glass yogurt containers. REFILLABLE I tell you. Yieehah.
And yum yum to all the other delicious organic-y stuff.
This place could have more in stock though... more variety might be nice. And I've gotta admit, going here too often hurts the bank balance.
The staff are very friendly, I want to hug some of them. But hugging never seems to get me a discount.Listed in: My Neighborhood, grocery alternatives
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Review from Diana C.
Chicago, IL
8/31/2009
Unless you live on the same block as this place and are in some kind of emergency food situation, skip it.
Went in Saturday for the first time, as I'd been very curious about it as I know they carry a lot of locally made brands, a definite plus in my book.
Not well stocked, and what is there is outrageously expensive. Their pricing makes Whole Foods look like a budget grocery store. -
Review from Angela T.
Chicago, IL
9/6/2010
Having lived in Europe for five years, I got really comfortable with local grocers that stocked all the bits and bobs for a quick and easy dinner. Imagine my surprise when I find I can continue on this tradition with this local gem. So unlike Chicago and it's mega grocers with massive car parks. And so completely the way forward.
Please folks, pay the extra dosh for the pleasure and privilege of shopping local. It's worth the price!
The staff is friendly and incredibly helpful. And unlike your large supermarkets, you can be assured your requests and feedback will be received and utilized. -
Review from Eileen L.
Los Angeles, CA
11/16/2008
This place is great. It's a couple blocks away from me and they have a nice variety of locally grown produce and vegetarian foods. The best thing I've discovered here is Upton's Naturals Chorizo Seitan. I swear that it's the same chorizo Handlebar uses in their black bean nachos. Tofu here is decently priced and so is the produce. Produce that is locally grown I have found is actually CHEAPER than if you buy it at places like jewel. Once in a while they throw in freebies with purchases. Yay!
The people who work here are super nice.
Another great thing is their "plastic" bags are made from corn so they are biodegradable. LOVE IT! -
Review from Kristin W.
Chicago, IL
1/30/2008
When the monstrosity of a building went up across the street from me, bearing overpriced condos and ruining my view of the sunset, I never thought there would be a silver lining.
And then came Green Grocer. This place is a blessing. Never in my wildest dreams did I fantasize about an organic grocery store opening up in one of the building's store fronts. I couldn't be happier. This place is perfect! Cassie, the owner, is ultra nice and the other employees are just as cheerful.
Please come here and support this amazing addition to our neighborhood. You won't be disappointed.Listed in: My Neighborhood
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Review from Alphonso M.
Chicago, IL
7/6/2010
Here comes a tiny jewel of a business that I found out about from fliers left in our buildings lobby.
Randomly without a bag, (and because there was not enough time, to make my way to the new Whole Paycheck, and their huge monstrosity, that I normally frequent.)
In need of additional veggies for homemade gravy I was making. I ran over to Green Grocer and grabbed fresh tomatoes, and a variety of shrum's for the sauce. I grabbed a day old mini loaf of bread for garlic bread, and croutons. Mind you, all for under $5. Totally shocked, that I saved on gas, and in my pocket book.
I totally appreciate a business owner who is unpretentious, and well meaning.
Cassie, even lent me a book after a short convo we had about 'the 100' mile challenge. (Which I keep forgetting to bring back ).
I support this business. I support the concept. I welcome the idea behind the business. I love being able to walk over that day to pick ingredients that I need for that nights meal.
Plus, the host free beer and wine tastings all the time. I welcome a business owner who cares about the consumer vs some of the other longstanding businesses just across the street. Who just really don't a flying you know it.
Go to this business, and go often. Leave your bag at home, as I do. -
Review from Jessica D.
Chicago, IL
1/14/2010
Stopped in for a couple of essentials after shopping at HarvesTime in Lincoln Square. This place has several things going for it:
1) They stock items from local veggie alternative companies like Upton's (amazing seitan) and Chicago Soy Dairy (Teese, Temptation non-dairy soy ice cream, vegan marshmallows) that I sometimes have trouble finding elsewhere
2) They give away out of date food. For FREE. As most people realize, food is usually good for a week after the sell-by date. But legally, they aren't supposed to sell it. Rather than trash it, Green Grocer gives these products away to people planning to use it soon.
Today, my roommate got free, local, organic milk and I grabbed delicious herbed tofu. We came home and got to snacking (I threw some of that seitan in a skillet with the tofu and created mad tasty tacos, freezing the leftovers to make chili later in the week).
The people here were also super friendly and gave my roomie some free wine to sample while I declined due to my straight-edgy ways.
The only real downsides are those of most gourmet and/or health stores: Green Grocer is small and the products are extremely pricey, make it a once in a while kinda shop. Still, I scored a few choice items including a loaf of an amazing olive sourdough ($3 and change) and above mentioned seitan (expensive as hell at $3.69 for 8 ounces). I highly suggest interspersing these super pricey, super tasty items amongst cheaper, less amazing things from Dominick's or Jewel (like Boca crumbles, which while less awesome, cost much less). -
Review from Del K.
Chicago, IL
4/17/2011 46 Check-ins Here
I love this place. Yeah, the prices are higher than Jewel. They also have food you won't find at Jewel or Dominicks. Great beer & liquor selection, some of the best dairy products I've had, unique vegetarian friendly options, and tons of local products - Nice Cream, Pasta Puttana, Grown Up Kids Stuff, Terrys Toffee. Super friendly and helpful staff, always well informed and willing to investigate if you have questions that they don't know the answer to. And a bowl of dog treats for the pup when we leave.
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Review from Cristene M.
Chicago, IL
8/25/2009
The Green Grocer is quite an amazing store and I'm so glad to have found it via Happy Cow. When I first walked in I was greeted by the owner, Cassie, she was very friendly and most helpful. I first asked her what was Vegan in the store and she gladly showed me around and even introduced some products that I hadn't even heard of before [they have a Vegan cheese that melts - this is made locally]. She also carries an ice cream made by a Chicago company called Temptation - all I can say is WOW! I can't believe its Vegan!!! I also got some Vegan snicker doodle cookies that she orders from an independent seller [may be an Amish seller, I can't remember], they were fantastic! Over the weekend they get Vegan donuts from a local bakery as well - I have yet to try these because I limited myself to a few desert items.
Also, she told me they offer classes there during the month. The day I went in they were offering a course about cleansing/fasting [I may be wrong, but it's similar to that]. So give the store a call and check out their schedule. -
Review from Liz O.
Chicago, IL
9/2/2008
Cassie & crew take great pride in their work and it totally shows.
The West Town neighborhood was in need of a good grocer and I was quiet pleased when The Green Grocer opened up shop right around the corner. Not only is the establishment fresh and clean, but it offers the kind of groceries I love-- produce!
The selection may be modest when compared large scale grocers, but the quality cannot be replaced. The staff know every product and offer assistance with everything from shopping to preparation, even offering solutions if you are not satisfied with a product.
Some of our Green Grocer favorites include:
* Uptons meat substitutes - Meat eaters love the faux Chorizo & Italian sausage just as much as us vegheads.
*The man that does the lamb - Seriously, the men in my life drool over these organic meat products.
* Buttery greens - I went to bed one night this summer wishing lunch would come sooner... I couldn't wait for my next salad.
* Temptations Vegan Ice Cream
* The Greg Christian Catering Salad - A vegetable salad creation by Grand Ave. caterer. Find it in the Green Grocer to-go case, but get there early because they clear out fast.
And the best part? They know me, my husband and our dog by name and always greet us with smiles. Molly (the dog) is treated just like the human patrons, receiving a dog treat and some good petting with every visit. No worries, the dog stays outside with only a window view of the action... remember, I said this place is fresh and clean.
Shop local! -
Review from Ronni S.
Chicago, IL
6/5/2010
Love this place. The strawberries look like actual strawberries, not like Strawberry Monsters. It's expensive (although not prohibitively so), but I always say pay to eat the good stuff now, or pay the expensive medical bills down the road. This way is much cheaper.
The employees are very friendly and helpful. Organic and locally grown food. And it's right down the street from me. :) -
Review from Tom C.
Pittsburgh, PA
4/8/2009
I'm new to Chicago, so my confusion may stem from not being from the mid-west, but when I read these reviews and checked out this place I expected to find a grocery store. It's more like a little fancy wine shop with some specialty foods.
Not bad as a wine shop, but not good as a grocery store.
