Not everything we looked at this week was smoothie related but we tried to stay on topic. This week we looked at three stores that will help you experiment with smoothies. Monnettes (we visited the Glendale store) is one of the undisputed leaders in all things vegetable and fruit. We visited Bassett’s (on Secor) to look at some smoothie additions and of course found other cool stuff. Finally, we visited Fresh Thyme and their surprisingly decent produce department.
There are many reasons why we love Monnettes. Their deli is amazing (check out the smoked pork loin on sale this week). But it is the veggie and fruit selection that always drives us to this unique market. This week strawberries are on sale and of course they freeze so pick up plenty.
Strawberries at Monnettes. Great deal and they freeze
Spinach at Monnettes
Avacados at Monnettes
Red grapes at Monnettes. When using in smoothies just freeze!
Apples at Monnettes. Fuji’s are always a great snack
Bagged Oranges at Monnettes.
Prebagged and washed kale, spinach and greens at Monnettes
Feel like juicing? Monnettes carries big bag carrots!
Monnettes has a variety of bunch greens, including kale
Bassett’s is a hidden and underrated gem. Right off the bat they have a good bulk selection, from spices to herbs to dry goods. They also have a good selection of gluten free. And although not billed as a vitamin or exercise supplement store, they have those products as well, usually organic and all natural. They are always worth a drop in.
One of several protein selections at Bassett’s for smoothie or baking additions
Raw and organic honey at Bassett’s
Hemp protein at Bassett’s. One of the many raw protein selections available.
Carob Powder is an alternative to chocolate. Bassett’s carries a couple different varieties
Bassett’s carries a wide variety of vitamins and supplements. The staff is very knowledgeable as well.
Every wanted to make your own herb teas? Bassett’s has you covered
Not your normal herb tea selection at Bassett’s
Bassett’s has a decent selection of bulk cereals, beans, and lentils. Many of them organic
Bassett’s has a wide variety of personal care products that are organic and natural
Dried fruit at Bassett’s. Perfect for make your own snacks
Bulk spices are a great deal at Bassett’s. One of their hidden gems
With a decent produce department and whole aisles of supplements and natural additives, Fresh Thyme could simply advertise itself as a health food store. Of course, it also has a butcher shop, a deli, and a respectable fish selection. This week check out the Dover Sole and lobster tails. Finally, tired of honey getting sugary on you and not being able to finish a jar? Get honey or maple syrup in the amount you want from their bulk dispenser.
Fresh Thyme local honey. The easiest way to buy a little or a lot
Lots of organic green choices at Fresh Thyme, which has a respectable produce department.
Little lobster tails at Fresh Thyme. Perfect for Valentines day
The best fish of the week, Dover Sole, at Fresh Thyme
Check out the price on “pre-made” smoothies. Obviously it is better to do it yourself
Lots of organic green choices at Fresh Thyme, which has a respectable produce department.
A wide selection of stone fruits at Fresh Thyme which are great for smoothies or snacks
This is an excellent selection of organic broths at Fresh Thyme. Price is good as well.
Organic bulk cereals at Fresh Thyme
Fresh Thyme Papaya.
We always love it when a national chain carries local. MacQueen’s apples at Fresh Thyme
Great selection and price on berries at Fresh Thyme. Remember they freeze.