Oakland Indie Award 2012 Nominee

None other than our fabulous Farmer Joe’s. Woot! Woot! Woot!

Best Grocery Store in Oakland

Hell, YES! The tribe has spoken, loud and clear. Farmer Joe’s Marketplace is Oakland Magazine readers’ choice for Best Grocery Store. And I quote…

“When the Berkeley Bowl and Whole Foods get too crowded or expensive but you’re just not ready for mainstream mega chains like Safeway or Lucky, head to the Dimond District for a pleasurable shopping experience at indie grocer Farmer Joe’s. A welcoming selection of garden starts — organic veggies, herbs and flowers — greet shoppers on entering the upscale New Joe’s, which boasts an excellent inventory of locally manufactured products as well as tried-and-true national brands. The produce, fresh and lovely, is cheaper than most, and discerning customers can choose from organic and non-organic versions of many items. The fish-meat-poultry counter is pleasingly stocked and run by superb sales folks. Bulk dry goods occupy a good chunk of space, and the deli counter and bakery are chock full of irresistible, ready-to-eat treats. You’ll be making up items you left off your list so you’ll return here.”

WOO HOO!

Flower Power

Joe’s flower department is bursting with color and variety, with mix and match bouquets for as little as $3.99 and $4.99. Saturday, I stopped in store and bought some gorgeous heather for $3.99 that filled a vase and livened up my dining room. I could not resist snapping a photo of the flower cart today. It was overflowing with spring in the shape of fresh cut irises, sunflowers, chrysanthemums, hydrangeas, renuculas, pussy willows, and all sorts of mixed arrangements. Flowers are fresh everyday and so affordable. I love having a bouquet sharing my dining room table while I eat dinner. You will too.