There is a tiny, remarkably well-stocked community-owned grocery store/food co-op about 2 blocks from our apartment. It's called the Dill Pickle, which I absolutely love. We went in there last night after a couple hours of couch browsing, and I couldn't believe my eyes; they are the ONLY food retailer I've seen in Chicago, farmers markets included, that have fresh peas in the pods available! I bought a whole pound, and tonight we will be having _________________ with fresh peas! Any suggestions? I was thinking maybe fettuccine with asparagus, peas, parmesan, and a little cream? And mint! Yeah... that sounds amazing. I'm doing that.
The Pickle (as we fondly refer to it) also carries organic and/or locally sourced produce, local meats and dairy, artisan breads, bulk dried herbs, beans, rice, etc, coffee, tea... basically everything we use. I'm really excited to become a part of their community - the girls who were working last night are members of the co-op who used to volunteer, and who now work there part-time. They obviously love it there. I'm usually really chatty with people about the food I'm buying, and the cashiers usually tolerate it, but the girl who was helping me actually engaged me in a conversation! We talked for a little bit about what our plans were for the European-style butter they carry. I'm such a nerd, but it makes me feel so good when I find fellow nerds out there.
It's also right across the street from our local public library. I'm in heaven over here!
A lot of food coops look for volunteers to make a healthy meal and offer samples with a recipe in-store made with their fresh ingredients. They do that here at Oryana - there is a woman who is there maybe once or twice a month (or more... may be every Tues. or something) who does vegetarian meals. Don't know if you need to be certified or licensed or anything though. Might be a chance for you to reach more people with your blogging and develop a community. You need to use your name too... something like What's Cooking with Coppertop. :)
ReplyDeleteThat place sounds fabulous! I wish we had something like it here! And across from the library, too...amazing.
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