Richmond has a really interesting food scene. I’m not just talking about restaurants (although we certainly have that), I’m talking about grocery shopping and supermarkets. In light of my new obsession with cooking and learning new recipes, I’ve taken to the streets of RVA for my supplies.
J.M. Stock Provisions:
Being pretty into local produce, I was more than excited to stumble across this market on Main Street. I was even more excited that it’s located so close to VCU and within walking distance to my house in the fan. I seriously go in here just to stare at all their local and natural foods. If you’re gluten-free, or just into eating unprocessed, natural foods, you will be as obsessed with JM Stock as I am. If you’re trying to learn how to cook, this market houses a beautiful butcher shop stocked with grass-fed meats of all kinds, and the butchers there will even walk you through how to cook certain meats!
Tan A:
Into Asian cuisine? Look no further than TAN and A market. This place is so much fun! It’s about 10 minutes down Broad Street from VCU, but it’s totally worth the drive. They have an unbelievable amount of food options and produce that I’d never heard of before (including Green Tea Ice Cream). In the back, they have fresh fish out for sale that you can buy whole! If that’s not enough for you, they also have tons of unique kitchen equipment and really cute bowls and plates you can buy.
Yellow Umbrella Provisions:
Similar to JM Stock, Yellow Umbrella specializes in unique, natural products. Many of their fresh meats are seafood related, which is why they caught my eye. I love seafood! They have an array of crackers, spices, deserts, and of course: a pretty fancy wine and beer selection. If you want fresh seafood now that the weather is warm, this is the place to check out.
Ellewood Thompson:
Ellewood’s obviously makes the list! This is by far my favorite grocery store in Richmond. Ellewood’s has a huge selection of organic, unprocessed, natural foods of all kinds. Their atmosphere is warm and inviting. Ellewood's provide Richmond with locally grown produce which helps support numerous famers around the area. Ellewood’s can get a little expensive, but if you have a list and know what you’re looking for, you can absolutely make shopping at Ellewood’s wallet-friendly. This grocery store is especially great if you’re following a gluten or dairy free recipe requiring natural baking/cooking substitutes.
