If you thought Bulk Barn was your only option for buying quinoa in bulk at (almost) reasonable prices, think again.
There’s a new player in town – indie retailer Urban Bulk Emporium.
The east end bulk food retailer leans healthier than Bulk Barn – the candy you find lining their aisles has been replaced here with natural, locally sourced foods.
Owners Aziza Popat and Cory Wilson recently opened up shop after Aziza, having grown up working in her grandparents’ bulk food store, decided to stick with what was in her blood.
Located at the corner of Queen and Greenwood near Oliffe Butcher Shop, Urban Bulk Emporium aims to help east ender’s get a healthy dinner on the table minus the trip to Whole Foods.
The variety of products currently available spans from baking supplies to nuts, rice, quinoa, juices, gluten free products, kombucha, kefir, spices, dressings, and even organic soaps and shampoos.
Prices are reasonable compared to what you’d pay at the average health food store, but being an upstart indie retailer means in the end, Bulk Barn might still edge them out price-wise.
Selection wise, Emporium definitely has the healthy, organic food edge – and you won’t be tempted to fill up a bag with candy while you’re buying your gluten free pancake mix.
While you’re there, try your hand at making your own fresh peanut butter in-store. You’ll never go back to store bought after this, not to mention your PB&Js will never be the same again.
You can find them at 1380 Queen Street East, open Monday to Friday from 9:30am to 8pm, and Saturday to Sunday, 10am to 6pm.