Think globally, act locally right? There is no way I could forget my lovely Idahoans in this little corner of the web. After years of trying to deny that I am actually a resident of the Treasure Valley, I've finally come to not only accept, but love, that fact. And so, I've spent quite a bit of time exploring the local haunts, the hidden nooks and crannies, and all of the little jewels that the Gem State has to offer.
Here you will find some of the local healthy and environmentally focused businesses that I have come to love. I've given each what I feel is a fair review, but you'll have to give them a visit to decide what you think. In addition to that, if there are any places you think I've missed - email me! I'd love to hear from you, and I'd love to find new local business to check out.
Alchemy Spa - A wonderful treat for the body and soul! They offer a variety of services such as skin care, waxing, massage, piercings, and hair cutting/styling. They also carry Wicked Sinful Skincare & Cosmetics, to quote from their facebook page: "We have products to suit every need providing, natural, vegan, petroleum free and even organic alternatives for those that need it."
Boise Co-Op - Boise's answer to a green grocery store, along with a bakery, full service deli, fish counter, and extensive selection of supplements, herbs, cleaning supplies, makeup, and skincare. They do have a life-long membership option, which grants access to sale prices and other specials, but no membership needed to shop. I've never seen this store not crowded, and parking can be a bit of a pain, so if you don't live within walking distance try to couple a trip here in with when you already need to be in the area for something else (which we should all do when we drive somewhere anyway!).
Cliff's Country Market - This place is a real treat, tucked away in downtown Caldwell. They stock local raw milk, grass fed beef, gluten free products, local honey, local eggs, and plenty of local fruit and vegetables. They also carry sprouted grains, unrefined coconut oil, sugar alternatives, a variety of flours and grains, and they have plenty of baked goods and cereal mixes under their own name. The prices are low, but the nutritional quality of the majority of their offerings are high. Since finding them, I've rarely had to leave Canyon County to make a run to the Co-Op.
Coy Bettie's Cafe
Idaho's Bounty
Idaho's Bounty is a southern Idaho cooperative that delivers fresh, local, sustainable food from the source to the consumer. They carry the widest variety of local products I've seen available - including at the farmer's markets!
Imelda's Coffee Casa - a wonderful little cafe, hidden in a corner strip right by College of Idaho. They're locally owened, so I give them a plus there! Also, they're seriously the friendliest people I've encountered behind a coffee machine. I can't give them a lot of points for locally sourced ingredients - and I haven't yet asked them about any other environmentally friendly initiatives - but quoted from their facebook page: "
is a recent addition to downtown Nampa, and they claim to be Idaho's first sustainable sushi bar. Their prices are on par with the other sushi offerings in the area, but you get the added benefit of knowing your meal has come from a sustainable source!
World of Nutrition - another Nampa gem! These guys carry a wide selection of health items, teas, herbs, healthy pet products, essential oils, and a selection of healthy household and grocery items as well.
