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| - I should probably start this by confessing that I was raised by Northeastern-liberal-slightly, o.k. majorly - hippie types. As a result, I love anything like Whole Foods almost unabashedly - green, healthy, community minded, pays a fair wage. That said, I do feel this store is great on its own merits.
This is my go to spot when I want something healthy or, in the case of the fantasy-style, squeal-inducing bakery and gelato section (chocolates made on site! macaroons! Napoleons! squee!), something I can convince myself is not all that bad. The soup bars are wonderful, as is the fish counter. And I am hooked on the Asian inspired noodle bowls they serve in the back corner of the store near the never open tapas bar (why? why never open?). The chicken bowl with lemongrass broth is amazing. Def. add the lemon (included) for a tangy, sour, fresh taste.
I also love the natural beauty products area. This is also where many a trip goes astray for me b/c I am distracted by the 10,000 organic/natural brands of face creams and potions and want to try everything. Unlike sephora, WF realizes that there are more than 3 organic beauty lines out there and houses more than a few.
Also great is the natural/herbal/homeopathic remedies section. The staff in this section is knowledgeable and will recommend and guide you through treatments. Also, WF recognizes that everyone is different, so if you buy a remedy, keep your receipt. If it does not work for you, you can exchange the product for something that will. This is great and really allows you to try things you might not otherwise.
The wine selection is also really comprehensive and they have a whole area of local wines (some of which are quite good) and wines under $10, which is a great resource for entertaining.
And the cheeses. The cheeses! Cheese-heaven. Or, imho, actual heaven. Love the broad selection and the fact that they have samples out a lot, which allows you to expand your palette without investing. The staff in this area is great and can really recommend some great cheeses.
One caveat: try to bring a reusable bag or two with you. You will save five cents a bag and avoid being looked at like you have just threatened the check out person's pet. Seriously, last time I had to ask for a paper bag I left stammering that I needed it so my cats could play with it...
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