9 Best Markets in Virginia!
The best food comes from the freshest ingredients. So next time you’re looking for fresh produce, warm and fluffy bread, or specialty items that are tough to find, check out Virginia’s incredible local markets. Here are our favorites!
Ellwood Thompson, Richmond, VA
Ellwood Thompson was recently named the “Best Local Grocery Store in Virginia” by msn.com, and for good reason. They’ve been providing high quality food to the Richmond area since 1988, and don’t seem to be going anywhere anytime soon. They have strict standards regarding the products they sell, including that there can be no advertising to children and the food must be locally made.
Union Market, Richmond, VA
Union Market has made a name for itself as a neighborhood café and grocery store. They serve meals and sell ingredients on the side, making it the perfect spot for brunch and shopping.
Azar’s Mediterranean Specialties, Virginia Beach, VA
Azar’s Mediterranean Specialties serves delicious Mediterranean food in the attached café, and also sells natural ingredients in the attached market. The market sells olive oils, herbs, spices, cheeses, wine, and Azar’s own line of food.
Foods of All Nations, Charlottesville, VA
Foods of All Nations has been a Central Virginia institution for over 50 years. They’ve got a deli, hot bar, bakery, floral, and gift department. According to their website, “We provide our community with the widest selection of Virginia-made food and products than anyone in Charlottesville.”
Greenwood Gourmet Grocery, Crozet, VA
Greenwood Gourmet Grocery in Crozet was “built upon the foundation of a traditional roadside fruit stand,” and as such continues to support local food producers. They specialize in stocking local produce, wines, beers, and pastries.
The Grocer Asian Market, Roanoke, VA
The Grocer Asian Market is Roanoke’s one-stop shop for Asian ingredients. They sell dal, spices, pickles, fresh vegetables, rice, flours, and much more. The shop has all kinds of food westerners may not be familiar with, and the customer service is second to none.
India A1 Grocery, Arlington, VA
India A1 Grocery in Arlington caters to traditional Indian chefs and would-be chefs, with imported Indian ingredients. The location isn’t huge, but that doesn’t mean their stock is lacking. Anything they don’t have can likely be special ordered.
Halal Meat and Grocery, Fairfax, VA
Halal Meat and Grocery services the Northern Virginia area with Middle Eastern groceries. They sell fresh bread, fresh produce, oils, teas, coffees, chocolates, and specialty items. Stop by the restaurant when you’re done shopping to sample the wares.
Friendly City Food Co-Op, Harrisonburg, VA
The Friendly City Food Co-Op in Harrisonburg describes itself as “a business that’s owned and democratically controlled by a large group of owners” in the area. They’ve got only the best, local food, regular deals, events and classes, and ownership opportunities.
