If the "shining city on a hill" had an organic grocery store, Southtown Health Foods would be it. Your load seems to lighten walking into this brightly lit, orderly store with comfortably wide aisles and easy-to-locate, perfectly aligned products. Southtown has all the brands expected in an organic store such as NOW essential oils and Nature’s Way supplements. About half the store offers everyday items like pasta, but with an emphasis on natural (i.e., nonprocessed) food items like gluten-free pancake mix. Though a smaller section, its organic summer veggies and fruits look the way they should. Pick out your produce and organic turkey or chicken and you’re ready for a colorful and healthy stir-fry.

Personable clerks fill the store with advice covering everything from prostate health to upping daily iron intake. Store manager Linda Nicola says "staff are trained consultants" who "give a lot of personal attention to shoppers." Come during the day to enjoy the juice bar while your car sits in the free parking lot.

Centerstage Reviewer: Chris Benevich