Discover the charm of small local markets

Shopping for food these days at the big box grocery chains can seem overwhelming and impersonal. You navigate through acres of crowded aisles of clothing, home goods and hardware only to end up in a long line at the register, or worse, a self checkout.

There is a better option. The small local market that harkens back to days gone by is still around. And there’s probably one in your neighborhood.

Here you’ll find just what you’re looking for. Basic pantry staples for sure. But there’s also a great variety of locally made items, gourmet foods and unique products you won’t find anywhere else.

Extensive wine and beer selections, fantastic butcher shops and some of the best deli counters in town offer the perfect grab-and-go options when you’re just too busy to cook.

We’ve put together a list of the area’s best local markets. Check them out and you’ll remember how much fun grocery shopping can be.

Central Park Market

1158 South Shore Drive, Holland
facebook.com/centralparkmarket

Central Park Market is one of the last independently owned grocers in Holland with roots tracing back to 1904. This full-service grocery store offers everything under the sun — groceries, old-fashioned butcher shop, deli, fresh produce and flowers, Dutch goods, beer, wine and spirits and many specialty and health food items.

Cubi Market

430 W. 17th St., Holland
cubi.com

Buying through Cubi Market supports and stimulates the local economy. Order online and pick up from secure temperature-controlled Cubi Stations when it’s convenient for you. Selection includes meat and poultry, vegetables, baked goods, dairy and eggs, seasonal specials, pantry, snacks, desserts and more.

Nature’s Market

1013 Washington Ave., Holland
naturesmarketholland.com

At Nature’s Market, the mission is to make clean eating and a healthy lifestyle accessible to all. The market is devoted to your well-being strives to offer friendly, knowledgeable and individualized assistance. You’ll find everything you need, including organic produce and groceries, bulk foods, gluten-free items, wine, supplements and beauty products.

Minit Mart

154 E. 15th St., Holland
facebook.com/MinitMartEast

434 Washington Ave., Holland
washingtonsquareminitmart.com

Find a unique selection of groceries, craft and domestic beer, wine and liquor. Wine Wednesday features 10% off one bottle, or 15% off two or more bottles. Sunday Funday features 10% off all craft beers and ciders. And treat yourself to some Palazzolo’s gelato.

Dockside Marketplace

1798 Ottawa Beach Road, Holland
docksidemarketplace.com

Heading to the beach or your boat? Make a stop at Dockside Marketplace for a large selection of wines, beers, spirits and groceries. And the Little Havana deli inside the store makes the best Cuban sandwiches in West Michigan to fill your picnic basket.

Market Zero

62 W. 8th St., Holland
themarketzero.com

Downtown Holland’s only urban market, Market Zero features a café serving crafted espresso beverages, cold brew coffee and nitro-infused coffee on tap, and delicious whole-fruit smoothies. The deli offers sandwiches and salads using Boar’s Head meats and cheeses alongside its house-made condiments and dressings. The gourmet food pantry has many unique and amazing items, along with a fantastic selection of fine wine and Michigan-made craft beer, ciders and seltzers.

Down The Hatch Party Store
& Port Sheldon Party Store

1866 Ottawa Beach Road, Holland
6789 Butternut Drive, West Olive
yourlakeshorepartystores.com

Along with everyday groceries, you’ll find a great selection of liquor, beer kegs and wine. And for delicious ready-made meals, pick up a pizza, fresh wraps, salads and more. Break-fast, lunch and dinner are hot and ready.

Ottawa Beach General Store

2256 Ottawa Beach Road, Holland
ottawabeachgeneralstore.com

Ottawa Beach General Store is a Holland icon. Savor the extensive candy and drink selection and shop for beach souvenirs as you enjoy a morning coffee and doughnuts. Lunch here is a great option — enjoy a steaming hot dog or delicious fresh sandwich. A mini grocery store is complete with camping supplies. Pick up your beer, wine and liquor for evening get-togethers at the cottage. No summer is complete without a visit to the Ice Cream Shoppe.

Ghezzi’s Market

2017 Lakeshore Drive, Muskegon

On the way to Pere Marquette Beach, you’ll find Ghezzi’s is the perfect stop for snacks, canned goods, cookies, crackers, milk, dips, soda, candy, grab-n-go salads and sandwiches, and an impressive selection of beer, wine and liquor.

Health Hutt

1519 E. River Road,Muskegon
3112 Henry St., Norton Shores
700 Washington Ave., Grand Haven

Heath Hutt is a health food, grocery and supplement store that offers natural and organic products, vegan and vegetarian options and gluten- and dairy-free goods, along with local dairy and meats. If you are looking for vitamins and supplements, home care, cleaning products, body care products or pet products, those are here too. The Norton Shores location features The Henry Street Deli.

The Cheese Lady

808 Terrace St., Muskegon
thecheeselady.net

In addition to cheese from around the world, this specialty grocery store features gourmet condiments, dip mixes, candy, a vinegar and olive oil tasting room featuring dozens of flavors, and a great selection of kitchen accessories.

Isabel’s Market + Eatery

310 Blue Star Hwy., Douglas
isabelsmarket.com

Isabel’s culinary team works hard to cook up new creations using the freshest seasonal ingredients. The deli features an array of sandwiches and salads plus grilling favorites like ribeye, tri-tip, tres major, brats and fish. It’s the perfect place to fill your picnic basket. Stop by for a wine tasting or sharpen your culinary skills with a fun cooking class.