Kathy L.
Yelp
I love Food Conspiracy Co-op on 4th Ave. for so many reasons: open member-ownership (without exclusivity), fresh, local, & organic produce, nice selection of bulk items, the hot/cold bar, local cheese, wine, and more. The employees are friendly and helpful, and I always leave feeling so good about my purchases.
I usually hit up the produce isle first because, to me, there is nothing like the smell of that fresh goodness -- kale, beets, carrots, arugula, ripe stone fruit, figs, dates, etc. -- all waiting to become some marvelous concoction. On days I don't have time to create my own meals, the hot/cold bar can hit the spot. The offerings rotate, and are made from scratch in the Co-op Kitchen. They also bake up some goodies for the pastry case.
The Co-op is definitely not a huge grocery outlet (although they have expanded quite a bit in the last year or so), but that is part of what attracts me to it. I can go in, get what I need, and leave -- without feeling overwhelmed. If I have time for a more leisurely trip, I do love to peruse the bulk bins for new items to go in my recycled glass jars. They have wonderful grains, nuts, seeds, beans, herbs, spices, teas, candies, etc.
Check out the 'Everyone Sales' and the 'Basic Buys' (if you become a member-owner). Also, look for wine deals averaging $5-$9 per bottle around the store.