Guide to Atlanta Grocery and Special Retailers

Foodbevy and Trax

November 17, 2023

Atlanta, a vibrant metropolis in the southeastern United States, embraces a dynamic and diverse community with a penchant for cultural richness and entrepreneurial spirit. Known for its Southern hospitality and a burgeoning interest in sustainability, Atlantans actively support local businesses and are increasingly drawn to products that align with ethical and eco-friendly values.

The city boasts a robust market scene, including farmers’ markets, specialty stores, and well-established supermarket chains. This diverse retail landscape not only caters to the varied preferences of the residents but also presents an excellent opportunity for consumer packaged goods (CPG) brands to thrive.

In this guide, I’ll take you on a journey through Atlanta, exploring the best grocery stores. So, let’s discover the potential it holds for CPG brands seeking exposure and a dedicated customer base.

SPONSOR: This article was written in partnership with Trax Retail . As your brand grows in retail, there comes a point when you can no longer manage how your products are showing up on shelf, if at all. Trax has a suite of merchandising services so you can make sure your product correctly shows up at retailers and sells off the shelf.

Grocery

(Photo: Sihene W.)

Buford Highway Farmers Market

Buford Highway Farmers Market in Atlanta comes highly recommended for its impressive selection, great prices, and fresh produce. The market is a treasure trove of international foods, offering a diverse range of specialty items from various nationalities.

Highlights:

Produce Selection: The market boasts an impressive variety of fresh produce from different parts of the world.
Unique Shopping Experience: The market provides a distinctive and enjoyable shopping experience with interesting and unfamiliar products.
Cultural Diversity: It caters to a diverse customer base, allowing you to shop alongside people from various cultures.
Atmosphere: It offers a down-to-earth and non-trendy environment.
Prices: The market is known for its reasonable prices, especially for international items that may be hard to find elsewhere.
Parking: Parking can be challenging, and checkout lines may be long, especially close to closing time.
Frozen Options: Aisles feature an abundance of frozen dumpling and ramen options, along with typical groceries like eggs and produce.
Deli and Premade Options: There is a deli towards the back that sells premade dishes, sushi, and bibimbaps, especially marked down near closing time for a great deal.

(Photo: The Peezy’s)

Sevananda Natural Foods Market

Sevananda Natural Foods Market, is specializing in vegan and vegetarian products, fresh local produce, exotic fruits, beverages, and wellness items, Sevananda is a consumer-owned co-op market, run by its members. With 47 years of commitment to plant-based living, the market is a reliable source of high-quality, local, and organic foods, supporting the community and local farmers. Beyond groceries, the deli offers convenient and flavorful breakfast, lunch, and dinner options.

Highlights:

Produce Selection: Store offers a diverse range of organic and vegetarian produce, including vegan and gluten-free options.
Unique Shopping Experience: The supermarket provides a unique shopping experience with a Hot Bar, Wellness Department, and a Co-Op initiative that allows customers to join and support the mission of sourcing products with food integrity.
Cultural Diversity: The store, located in the eclectic Little Five Points area, caters to a diverse customer base and offers a variety of international products.
Atmosphere: Community market vibrations and family-like service, creating a welcoming environment for customers.
Prices: While some favorite items have experienced a slight price increase, the overall pricing is considered reasonable for organic foods, comparable to other health-focused grocery stores.
Parking: The parking situation is noted to be challenging, with a small parking lot that can be tricky to navigate, prompting customers to plan their visits during slower times.
Service: The employees are knowledgeable, particularly in holistic medicine, and their willingness to provide recommendations. Customer service is as friendly and helpful.
Frozen Option, Deli, and Premade Options: The store offers a variety of options, including a Frozen Section, Deli, and Grab & Go options for customers looking for convenient and ready-made items.
Wellness Department: The Wellness Department is mentioned as expansive, offering a range of holistic and health-oriented products, including vitamins, herbs, and specific health supplements.
Co-Op Initiative: Customers have the opportunity to join a Co-Op initiative, where they can purchase shares to support the mission of the store in promoting food integrity and sourcing quality products.

(Photo: Kim C.)

Your DeKalb Farmers Market

Spacious grocery store with cafeteria for organic produce & specialty foods is popular on weekends.

Highlights:

Produce Selection: The market offers a well-stocked produce section that includes a variety of items such as Chinese eggplant, raw peanuts, and organic produce.
Unique Shopping Experience: The open kitchen concept, the layout changes, and the extensive variety of goods create a distinctive and engaging shopping experience.
Cultural Diversity: The market is praised for its cultural diversity, featuring products from all over the world, including sugarcane juice, international offerings, and aisles dedicated to different countries or regions.
Atmosphere: Despite the busyness, the atmosphere is described as vibrant and not overcrowded, providing a sensory overload with numerous sounds and colors.
Prices: Affordable prices, noting the availability of incredibly cheap spices and well-priced options in the meat section.
Parking: Pay attention to parking locations, as the market has a large parking lot, and the letters in the parking lanes may not be visible.
Service: Have an efficient team, with employees actively stocking items, assisting customers, and providing a smooth checkout experience.
Frozen Option: The open kitchen replaces the hot/cold food bar, and there are options to purchase prepared foods in the refrigerated area, including fresh pasta.
Deli and Premade Options: The market boasts an extensive selection, including a bakery department, premade meals, and options to have seafood cut according to specific needs.
Spices: The market has its spice section, offering a wide variety of spices at affordable prices.

(Photo: Doug G.)

Grant Park Market

Grant Park Market specializes in grocery, produce, wine, beer, sandwiches, tapas, and offers wine and beer on tap

Highlights:

Produce Selection: Grant Park Market offers a selection of produce, ensuring a variety of fresh options for customers.
Unique Shopping Experience: The market provides a unique shopping experience with its small size, focus on local products, and a combination of grocery store and restaurant offerings.
Cultural Diversity: Grant Park Market reflects cultural diversity through its curated selection of products, including items sourced locally and internationally.
Atmosphere: The market creates a welcoming atmosphere, complemented by its restaurant and bar, making it a suitable spot for various occasions.
Prices: The market is gourmet and prices are reflective of the quality and uniqueness of the products offered.
Parking: Grant Park Market provides free and easily accessible parking, enhancing the convenience for customers.
Service: The staffs at the market are super friendly, and the market maintains strict adherence to safety measures.
Frozen Option: Customers have the option to explore frozen items, expanding the range of choices for those looking for convenient and diverse meal options.
Deli and Premade Options: Grant Park Market offers a deli with a selection of meats and cheeses, as well as premade options like the mentioned Grilled Cheese with caramelized onions and avocado, contributing to a quick and satisfying dining experience.

(Photo: Savi Provisions)

Savi Provisions

Savi Provisions is a neighborhood destination market renowned for its locally sourced gourmet and organic foods, fine wines, and spirits. The establishment, viewed as an integral part of the community, fosters a generous environment for sampling and celebrating locally produced goods while advocating for local sourcing. Savi Provisions follows a flexible, community-focused growth strategy, collaborating closely with local farmers, vineyards, and distilleries at each location. This ensures a selection of the finest organic fruits, vegetables, meats, cheeses, fine wines, and spirits, allowing local families and friends to easily and swiftly assemble an impressive table.

Highlights:

Produce Selection: The restaurant primarily offers non-produce items such as chicken salad, fries, avocado toast, egg sandwich, Caesar salad, and salmon.
Unique Shopping Experience: The establishment provides a unique dining experience with views overlooking the B and C ramps, a quiet atmosphere, and a pleasant table against the window.
Atmosphere: The atmosphere is nice, quiet, and complemented by views from the window. There are also plenty of plugs along the wall for charging.
Service: Friendly manager, engaging staff, and a spectacular waitress.
Deli and Premade Options: The restaurant offers premade options like avocado toast, egg sandwich, and Caesar salad.

(Photo: Tony E.)

O4W Market

O4W Market provides a diverse range of local and imported craft beers, wines, and low-alcohol beverages. The establishment boasts a distinctive and extensive collection of healthy and organic groceries.

Highlights:

Produce Selection: O4W Town Pantry offers a diverse array of fresh produce, ensuring a wide range of options for customers seeking high-quality fruits and vegetables.
Unique Shopping Experience: The establishment provides a unique and engaging shopping experience, combining a well-curated grocery selection with a coffee shop and deli within the store.
Cultural Diversity: O4W Town Pantry reflects the cultural diversity of the Fourth Ward neighborhood, offering a variety of international and interesting grocery items, enhancing the overall cultural experience for customers.
Atmosphere: The store boasts a clean and modern atmosphere, complemented by a spacious outdoor seating area, contributing to a pleasant and inviting environment for customers.
Prices: The pricing is competitive and reasonable, ensuring that customers can access quality products without compromising their budget.
Parking: The location provides a convenient and spacious parking lot, adding to the accessibility and ease of shopping for customers.
Service: Customers can expect excellent service, as evidenced by the friendly and welcoming demeanor of the manager and the efficient checkout process.
Frozen Option: The frozen section offers a creative array of options for customers looking to prepare meals at home, presenting a unique selection not commonly found in mainstream grocery stores.
Deli and Premade Options: The deli at O4W Town Pantry offers a variety of premade options, such as the impressive BLT sandwich, providing customers with flavorful and convenient choices.

(Photo: Iman S.)

Candler Park Market

Candler Park Market is a neighborhood grocery store located at the intersection of Mclendon Ave and Clifton Road in Atlanta, Georgia. Carrying beer, wine & groceries, this casual spot serves food such as burgers, sandwiches & salads.

Highlights:

Produce Selection: The market offers a wide variety of grocery items and fresh produce sourced from local farms and vendors.
Unique Shopping Experience: The market provides a unique shopping experience with a cafe, general store, and rotating taps for local beer, creating a diverse and interesting atmosphere.
Cultural Diversity: The wine selection reflects cultural diversity, featuring different ratings and a diverse range of options on the shelves.
Atmosphere: The market creates a welcoming atmosphere, highlighted by friendly and helpful staff, a clean facility, and a community feel that adds value to the neighborhood.
Prices: Prices are reasonable, and there are options for a quick, affordable, and delicious meal, such as breakfast bagels and sandwiches from the deli.
Parking: The market offers convenience with a variety of snacks, fresh produce, and housewares, making it an easy stop for customers, whether for a quick pick-up or a leisurely visit.
Service: Employees consistently provide positive and helpful service, making the market a reliable and enjoyable destination for customers.
Frozen Option: The market offers a selection of frozen options, providing additional choices for customers seeking convenience or variety.
Deli and Premade Options: The deli stands out, offering high-quality sandwiches, burgers, with the option to customize, including vegetarian and vegan choices, providing a diverse selection for different preferences.

(Photo: Westview Corner Grocery)

Westview Corner Grocery

Westview Corner Grocery, a locally-owned establishment that debuted in 2018 within the Westview village, stands out for its focus on local, natural, and organic grocery items. Boasting an extensive selection of craft beer and wine, patrons can not only shop for quality products but also indulge in a variety of refreshments such as sandwiches, wraps, and ice treats, all within the cozy ambiance of the store’s indoor picnic tables.

Highlights:

Produce Selection: Westview Grocery offers a variety of fresh produce, contributing to a diverse range of healthy food options for customers.
Unique Shopping Experience: The grocery store provides a unique and diverse shopping experience with a wide selection of products, including exclusive wine offerings, Spotted Otter cured meats, and a variety of natural and mindfully packaged items.
Cultural Diversity: Westview Grocery stocks products from traditional common household brands to those known in other parts of the country, showcasing cultural diversity in its product offerings.
Atmosphere: The store creates a welcoming atmosphere, just like a true corner grocery store with free parking and a coffee shop in the back, allowing customers to relax and enjoy their shopping experience.
Prices: While prices may be slightly higher, it is noted that the store is a small business giving back to the community, and customers can earn points for discounts on purchases.
Parking: Westview Grocery provides free parking, adding to the convenience of shopping at the neighborhood store.
Service: The staff are friendly and helpful, willing to provide honest reviews, assistance with product selection, and even checking stock availability upon request.
Frozen Option: The grocery store offers a selection of frozen entrees, contributing to a diverse range of options for customers.
Deli and Premade Options: Customers can enjoy ready-to-eat deli items like curried chicken salad and variety of meal options available.
Premade Options: The store features premade options like snack packs of dried fruit, adding to the guilt-free and convenient choices for customers.

(Photo: Frankye J.)

Nuts 'n Berries

Nuts ‘n Berries in Atlanta started with a vision of bringing California’s healthy food options to the South. Over 30 years, it led in introducing organic and natural products. Facing challenges with the rise of big box stores, the original owners sold it in 2015 to Mari Geier and Kevin Parker. Under their leadership, Nuts ‘n Berries evolved into a community hub, offering not only products but also engaging in activities like Facebook Live sessions on health topics. The store’s history, starting on Peachtree Road and later moving in 1987, reflects its enduring role as the go-to choice for health and wellness in the community. Geier and Parker aim to redefine the independent health food store, emphasizing community engagement and personalized health solutions.

Highlights:

Produce Selection: Nuts ‘n Berries offers a diverse range of produce, including cooking and baking ingredients, as well as holistic, CBD/THC wellness products.
Unique Shopping Experience: The store provides a unique and positive shopping experience, with welcoming and helpful staff, who contribute to the overall positive atmosphere.
Cultural Diversity: The store embraces cultural diversity by offering a variety of products, including Vegan options in the adjacent Organic Cafe and virtual cooking classes.
Atmosphere: Nuts ‘n Berries maintains a vibrant and positive atmosphere, evident in the friendly and informed staff, making customers feel welcome and comfortable during their visits.
Prices: Customers appreciate the reasonable prices, demonstrating a good balance between quality and affordability.
Parking: Challenging due to a full parking lot.
Service: The customer service throughout the store is consistently wonderful, with knowledgeable and helpful staff providing recommendations and assistance.
Frozen Option: The store offers a variety of snacks, including frozen options, contributing to the overall convenience for customers seeking healthy and natural food choices.
Deli and Premade Options: The adjacent Organic Cafe thrives with a lot of Vegan options, and the store expands its offerings to include various soups, contributing to the convenience of ready-made and healthy choices for customers.

(Photo: Nature’s Pick Market)

Nature's Pick Market

Nature’s Pick Market is committed to offering high-quality, organic, and locally sourced products in a convenient neighborhood setting. It is a locally owned and operated business offering a comprehensive selection of natural, non-GMO, and organic products. The market serves as a one-stop-shop for a variety of items, including organic groceries, supplements, fresh juices, and smoothies. They pride themselves on sourcing locally for their food items, including produce, fruits, and specialty dietary needs such as gluten-free, dairy-free, nut-free, and allergen-free options. In addition to a range of clean personal care and cosmetic products, Nature’s Pick Market provides essential oils, pet food, and natural remedies. Customers can also find bulk options for nuts, seeds, grains, snacks, spices, and teas.

Highlights:

Produce Selection: The store offers a diverse and impressive array of fresh local produce, including a great selection of local farmers’ produce.
Unique Shopping Experience: The store provides a unique shopping experience with a focus on health-conscious living, offering a juice bar, fresh peanut butter station, and a variety of health foods.
Cultural Diversity: The establishment reflects cultural diversity by carrying a range of products, including bulk herbs, locally sourced items, and a variety of organic options.
Atmosphere: The store is clean, neat, and welcoming, creating a positive and pleasant atmosphere for customers.
Prices: The prices are deemed reasonable, offering affordability for high-quality products and a cost-effective alternative to larger chain stores.
Service: The staff is helpful, friendly, knowledgeable, and providing great customer service throughout the visit.
Frozen Option: The store offers a frozen option, specifically Strive Foods ready-to-go meals, adding convenience and variety to the product selection.
Deli and Premade Options: Appreciate the convenience of deli and premade options, such as a smoothie bar, prepared foods on the go, and a variety of healthy snacks.

(Photo: Bakkal International Foods)

Bakkal International Foods

Bakkal International Foods (BIF) is a local store in Sandy Springs, GA, established in 2009. Offering a diverse selection of imported groceries from Europe, Eastern Europe, Asia, the Mediterranean, and the Middle East, BIF boasts a wide variety of food, including fine cheeses, spices, syrups, fish, processed halal and kosher meats, and imported chocolates. Founded by an individual who migrated from Turkey, BIF addresses the local need for ingredients and food from across Europe, the Mediterranean, and the Middle East. Specializing in the finest cheeses, spices, sweets, and meats, BIF invites customers to explore the tastes of various cultures.

Highlights:

Produce Selection: Bakkal International Foods offers a diverse and well-stocked selection of fresh and imported goods, including high-quality produce and a variety of Mediterranean snacks, chocolates, cheeses, and more.
Unique Shopping Experience: The store provides a unique and enjoyable shopping experience, with a welcoming atmosphere, friendly staff, and a wide range of European and Mediterranean products, creating a gem within the community.
Cultural Diversity: Bakkal International Foods reflects cultural diversity by offering a broad range of products from Turkish, Bulgarian, Romanian, and other European regions, providing customers with a taste of different culinary traditions.
Atmosphere: The store boasts a lovely atmosphere, with a well-designed layout.
Prices: Despite offering high-quality imported goods, the store maintains reasonable prices, ensuring accessibility for customers.
Service: Bakkal International Foods have an exceptional service, with staff members going above and beyond to assist customers, make recommendations, and even share personal items as gestures of goodwill.
Frozen Option: The store offers a diverse range of frozen options, including imported cheeses, meats, desserts, and other items, providing customers with convenient choices for their culinary needs.
Deli and Premade Options: Customers can enjoy the convenience of deli and premade options, such as Turkish coffee, chocolates, and other ready-to-enjoy products, making it a one-stop-shop for various culinary needs.

(Photo: SS K.)

Kelly’s Market

Kelly’s Market in Decatur is a neighborhood grocery store that takes pride in supporting local businesses and offering a diverse selection to its customers. They aim to be the go-to spot for groceries, social gatherings, and enjoyable experiences. Visitors can indulge in delicious sandwiches, choose from a selection of wine and craft beer, purchase everyday essentials, or grab a bouquet of flowers on their way out.

Highlights:

Produce Selection: Kelly’s Market offers a variety of produce, including premium meats, snacks, and a small selection of vegetables.
Unique Shopping Experience: The market provides an excellent coffee and beer selection, along with interesting choices of wine, creating a distinctive shopping experience.
Cultural Diversity: The diverse menu, featuring options like the Tanwich and Rah’s Inferno, reflects a range of cultural influences.
Atmosphere: Kelly’s Market exudes a charming and cute atmosphere that adds to the overall experience.
Prices: The pricing at Kelly’s Market is considered good, making it an affordable option for a range of items.
Parking: The convenience of parking enhances accessibility.
Service: The staffs are known for providing excellent and friendly service.
Frozen Option: Kelly’s Market offers frozen options.
Deli and Premade Options: The market boasts a cute deli with a variety of premade options, such as the Mulligan, BLAST, and the Rah’s Inferno sandwiches, catering to diverse preferences.

Specialty Market

(Photo: Kathleen M.)

Intown Market

Intown Market is a specialty market known for its extensive selection of over 200 craft beers and fine wines. The gourmet deli showcases Boar’s Head meats and cheeses, offering a variety of delicious sandwiches, fresh house-made tuna, turkey, and chicken salads, along with enticing options like Greek pasta salad and freshly prepared pizzas. The establishment prides itself on fast and friendly service, a sentiment echoed by the satisfied neighborhood clientele. Operated by a dedicated family, Intown Market prioritizes customer satisfaction and quality products.

Highlights:

Produce Selection: The market offers a variety of produce options, including fresh and quality items such as arugula, pickles, and other sandwich ingredients.
Unique Shopping Experience: With a 24/7 operation, the market provides a distinctive shopping experience, catering to diverse needs and preferences, whether it’s a late-night snack run or a convenient stop before a performance.
Cultural Diversity: The market reflects cultural diversity through its product offerings, including unique items like La Fin du Monde beer, dolmes, and an array of international condiments.
Atmosphere: The market boasts a welcoming atmosphere, highlighted by an impressive beer and wine selection, an in-house café, and picnic tables for those looking to enjoy a meal on-site.
Prices: Prices at the market are reasonable, offering competitive rates compared to traditional grocery stores, making it an accessible option for various budgets.
Parking: Convenient parking around the back of the market facilitates easy access for customers, adding to the overall convenience of the shopping experience.
Service: The market prides itself on top-notch customer service, with friendly and knowledgeable staff ready to assist with inquiries about the beer and wine selection or any other customer needs.
Frozen Option: The market provides a frozen option with pizzas available in various sizes, cooked fresh on-site, enhancing the selection for customers seeking quick and convenient meal options.
Deli and Premade Options: The deli counter at the market offers a range of choices for sandwiches and salads, with fresh and customizable options, contributing to the market’s reputation for quality and variety in its food offerings.

(Photo: Good Nutrition)

Good Nutrition

Good Nutrition stands as the largest independent chain of natural product stores in the southeast, excluding Florida. In 2014, the national recognition bestowed upon Good Nutrition as the “Retailer of the Year” by Vitamin Retailer magazine, a reputable industry publication, underscored its commitment to serving both the natural products sector and the residents of Atlanta.

Highlights:

Selection: The store offers a diverse range of products, including vitamins, herbs, homeopathic remedies, all-natural beauty and toiletry items, alkaline and mineral water, snacks, spices, and cooking items.
Unique Shopping Experience: The atmosphere in the store is unique and pleasant shopping experience, with friendly and helpful staff members providing assistance and recommendations.
Atmosphere: The store’s atmosphere is welcoming and conducive to a positive shopping experience, with knowledgeable staff members offering informative conversations and assistance.
Prices: The store maintains affordable prices, offering a balance between quality and affordability in its selection of vitamins and health products.
Parking: The convenience of parking is noted, making the shopping experience more accessible for customers.
Service: The staffs are friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful, providing valuable assistance to customers in finding products and offering health-related advice.

More From The Blog

Subscribe To The Foodbevy Newsletter

Be the first to get our latest news stories, interviews, and discounts.

Guide to Atlanta Grocery and Special Retailers

Grocery

Buford Highway Farmers Market

Sevananda Natural Foods Market

Your DeKalb Farmers Market

Grant Park Market

Savi Provisions

O4W Market

Candler Park Market

Westview Corner Grocery

Nuts 'n Berries

Nature's Pick Market

Bakkal International Foods

Kelly’s Market

Specialty Market

Intown Market

Good Nutrition

More From The Blog

Webinar: Shoppable E-commerce: Increasing Sales From Digital Marketing

Navigating Financial Challenges in the CPG Industry with Aion

This Week in CPG 05/13/24

Subscribe To The Foodbevy Newsletter

Empowering food & beverage founders from startup through scale.

Restricted to Premium Members Only

Sign In

Not a Premium Member? Sign Up Here: