Eating healthy is something we all know we should do, but it isn’t always easy to follow through on. There are several grocery stores in the South Sound that make finding healthy, fresh, organic and regional foods that nourish your body a snap. While it’s popular to make a commitment to improve our diets after several weeks of enjoying decadent holiday foods, you don’t have to wait to clean up your eating habits after indulging or because of making a resolution. These area grocery stores make it easy to get healthy food all year long.
Marlene’s Market & Deli
This South Sound based grocery store has a selection of organic and healthy foods. If you have dietary restrictions, are considering going vegan or just want to eat fewer animal products, you can find a variety of gluten free, plant-based meat and dairy alternatives here. There’s also a large bulk section that features hard to find herbs and teas, as well as things like granola, flours and grains. There is also an on-site cafe that offers healthy hot and cold foods, coffee and teas, as well as prepared items you can take with you. Marlene’s Market & Deli is located at 2951 S 38th Street. Find out more by visiting their website, calling them at 253-472-4080, or follow them on Facebook or Instagram.
Central Co-Op
Find a fresh selection of local and regional produce at the Tacoma Central Co-Op. There’s a small bulk foods section that offers freshly ground nut butters, dried fruit, nuts, granola, grains and more. In addition to produce and bulk items, get sustainable meats and seafood, as well as organic, local and raw milk and dairy products. There’s also a hot food and juice bar, and a drip coffee selection perfect for when you need a bite or drink on the go.
Central Co-Op is located at 4502 N Pearl Street. Learn more on their website, call the store at 253-888-4288, or follow them on Facebook
Harbor Greens Market
This market got its start in Gig Harbor and added a second location in University Place in 2013. No matter which location you visit, Harbor Greens Market features organic produce, dairy and dry goods, as well as weekly deals on produce and other items. There’s also a food counter where you can grab a few prepared items. Harbor Greens Market is located in Gig Harbor at 5225 Olympic Drive, and in University Place at 2620 Bridgeport Way W. Find out more by visiting their website and following them on Facebook.
Waterfront Natural Market
Located on the Gig Harbor side of the Narrows Bridge, Waterfront Natural Market has been in business for over 40 years. The store carries local honey and produce, along with natural and organic products made or grown throughout the Northwest. Waterfront Natural Market is located at 3122 Harborview Drive in Gig Harbor. Find out more by visiting their website, by finding them on Facebook or call the store at 253-851-8120.
Stadium Thriftway
Although it’s not strictly a health food store, Stadium Thriftway carries many hard to find healthy options. As the name implies, this market is located in the Stadium District and has a great selection of bulk foods, plant-based foods, and many healthy snack alternatives like chips made from beans rather than corn or grains. They also have a selection of organic items like produce and dairy as well as whole bean organic, fair trade coffee, which is available for purchase by the pound. Stadium Thriftway is located at 618 N First Street. Learn more by visiting their website or by calling 253-627-8275.
Whole Foods
This national chain grocery store that carries natural and organic items has had a presence in the South Sound since they opened in University Place in 2015. In addition to organic produce and dry goods, you can find a variety of plant-based prepared meals, snacks and desserts here. Whole Foods carries non-dairy ice cream, vegan baked goods, and plant-based meat and dairy alternatives. There’s also a juice bar and a hot and cold food bar that features salads, soups, and a rotating selection of entrees. Whole Foods is located at 3515 Bridgeport Way W. Find out more by visiting their website or by calling 253-534-4500.
Metropolitan Market
This upscale grocery store in Tacoma’s Proctor neighborhood carries a variety of specialty and healthy prepared meals. Their deli case features rotating selections of vegan items. Selections can include things like jackfruit tuna salad or balsamic glazed tofu. You can also pick up baked goods, meat, dairy, produce and most items you can find at your typical supermarket. Metropolitan Market is located at 2420 N Proctor Street. Learn more by visiting their website, or by calling 253-761-3663.
Tacoma Boys
If you seek meat, produce and seafood, it’s tough to top Tacoma Boys. The shop is open 24 hours a day and sells a wide variety of fruits and veggies, local honey, and unique grocery items, including a large selection of gluten free items. You’ll also find vegan, gluten free and less processed frozen foods. Tacoma Boys motto is that they offer quality food sourced from the best possible places, so you’ll find more natural items and fewer processed foods, making it easier to select something healthy to take home with you. Tacoma Boys has three locations in Tacoma, Puyallup and Lakewood. You can learn more about them on their website.
