Boise Co-Op

Living across town, I don't get to the Boise Co-Op too often. I'm always pleased when I do though. It's like an adventure. It doesn't feel as flourescent and plastic as most grocery stores, in fact, you half expect to see an old couple working together behind the counter. Make no mistake, this cozy store is pretty big and carries a variety of items from organic produce to gourmet cheeses. I'm particularly fond of the bakery which offers a variety of cakes, pies, and cookies each day. My favorite are the tetons (raspberry mouse covered in white chocolate). They also carry a nice selection of microbrews and classic soda drinks like Moxie for the non-drinkers. Workers are friendly. You don't get the impression that they hate their job or are nice because they have to be. more

They have a great selection of wine. They have an outstanding selection of fresh organic produce. They have any vitamin supplement you want. They have bulk herbs and teas. They even have a great deli with wonderful sandwiches and salads. And even if all those things aren't enough to bring us back, we take in our jugs and refill them with the best water around. The downside for me? It is so inconvenient from where we live. And when we are able to drive in, it's usually peak shopping time for everyone else too and the store is packed and cramped. The customers are usually friendly and nice and the service is always top-notch, but oh the crowded spaces. I have to mention the experience of shopping there with kids. They have little carts the kids can push, which is nice on the rare occasion when there's room for both cart and kids in any given aisle (sometimes we have to choose and one parent goes in with a cart while the other waits in the car with the kids). They have single cold juice boxes and long bread sticks that always make my kids feel like they're getting a special treat. They have clean bathrooms. But mostly they just have lots of good stuff and lots of people crowding the aisles to make their purchases. If I have to stop and ponder a purchase in the vitamin row, I need to arrange to go into the store on my own. People will be nice about me crowding the aisle with my three kids, but I'll have a panic attack shuffling them back and forth to allow people to pass. more

Then you don't even have to pay to get Co-op membership prices! Just show your student ID at the checkout and you get the discounted membership price. Pretty cool, eh? And the Co-op is a pretty cool store. They have a huge selection of fresh produce, and you'll probably see fruits and veggies you've never even heard of. Their sandwiches are the best I've had in Boise, and feature fresh-baked bread that actually tastes fresh baked, and your choice of tasty and organic toppings. I always have to stop at the bakery to get a cookie or two when I'm shopping. Try the cornbread rosemary cookies- it sounds weird, but they are super tasty! And don't forget, this place has probably a larger selection of beer and wine than any other store in Boise.The only negative thing is that the prices for some things can be more expensive than other stores, but with student/membership discounts it's a lot better. more

The Boise Co-op offers unique grocery items. The selection of fruits and vegetables are the freshest you can find. You can find many of their cheeses, wines, and other items only at the Co-op, and not other grocery stores in town. The Co-op is in the historic north end of town, and a beautiful place in Boise to visit. The prices are a little higher than other places, but the quality is unsurpassed. more