If you’re anything like us, the food a destination promises is a major factor in deciding whether to go, be it gumbo in New Orleans or lobster in Maine. Strolling around town, it’s fun to pop into the local specialty store for discovery about the region, gifts for friends (or ourselves!) and sheer curiosity. LTBB has included some info on a few stores we love to visit and hope to build the list as we grow. In the meantime, feel free to leave a comment about your favorite store to tip off friends who may live in your area. Happy shopping!






February 28th, 2010 on 5:27 pm
Leave your suggestions for specialty food stores here. I’ll try my best to stop in! Thanks, Jane
February 28th, 2010 on 7:47 pm
North Market–Columbus, OH.
http://www.northmarket.com/
AMAZING collection of specialty foods, organic/locally raised meats, delicious local restaurant booths and organic veggies/herbs. A must-visit when you come to Columbus….
April 13th, 2010 on 10:47 am
Two places in Decatur (outside Atlanta):
David’s Produce and Country Store This hidden little gem offers all things Southern. Chocolate-covered pecans, from fresh heirloom tomatoes, vidalia onions, chow-chow, jalepeno jams, Georgia peach jelly, and they sell whole cakes (caramel cake is amazing) for about $25. My favorite feature is the bubbling pot of boiled peanuts out front. David himself will scoop out a bag for you and mine never make it all the way home because we generally eat them in the parking lot. Tip: great place to make a gift basket - a collection of local treats always pleases and it’s something unique presentation for the foodie in your life. David’s Produce 3561 Lavista Rd Decatur, GA (404) 325-0709
Your Dekalb Farmers Market (nothing like the name implies. A massive year-round, indoor source for cheap spices, wines, fresh produce, specialty foods, seafood and cheeses. Good prices. Fun place to shop. I take everyone who visits town.) http://www.dekalbfarmersmarket.com 3000 East Ponce De Leon Avenue Decatur, GA (404) 377-6400
April 13th, 2010 on 10:49 am
Exciting new food store opening in downtown detroit — Ye Olde Butcher Shoppe on Woodward Ave. A much needed addition to the downtown scene where food options can be limited to convenience stores!! Detroit never ceases to surprise, amaze and delight me w/ it’s spirit!
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Midtown-Detroit/Ye-Olde-Butcher-Shoppe/287371061763
April 24th, 2010 on 10:19 am
Please come to Chicago. Let’s Eat. [And Shop] And Eat.
http://www.frenchmarketchicago.com/
June 30th, 2010 on 7:12 pm
We just joined “Ozark Natural Foods” in Fayetteville, AR. It’s a great co-op with healthy and gourmet options. They carry a wide range of locally sourced fruits, veggies, coffees, baked goods, etc. The only thing they seem to lack is a great cheese selection (which is important to a Wisconsinite!)
http://www.ozarknaturalfoods.com/index.php
July 1st, 2010 on 2:27 pm
Fromagination is a great cheese shop right on the capital square in downtown Madison, WI. They have an impressive selection of artisinal cheeses and an equally impressive staff!
July 16th, 2010 on 9:03 pm
Tony Caputo’s Market and Deli in Salt Lake City, UT. Yes, they make meatball subs for the masses, but they also have their own cheese cave (200 cheeses) and in-house salame maker. Great stuff.
http://caputosdeli.com/