Features Restaurant Ingredients Healthy Eats Juice Bar Specialty Market Spices Tea Acai Bowl Smoothies Health & Wellness Roundup Homepage Highlight CT Guide To 35+ Spots for Healthy Eats & Wellness: Markets, Apothecaries, Nutritionists, Spice Shops, Juice, Teas and More April Guilbault January 26, 2022 We are officially into winter and, in addition to the regular flus and colds, all that other “stuff” is still swirling around. Behold, a listing of establishments where you can grab healthy eats, products, and even some classes that will boost your immunity and overall health in an attempt to steel you against whatever might endeavor to chase you. From the humble elderberry and cup of tea to stores that stock all manner of healthy living goods and purveyors specializing in quality goods for your wellness, we want to help you stack the deck in your favor this season.Here are 35+ Spots for Healthy Eats & Wellness: Markets, Apothecaries, Nutritionists, Spice Shops, Juice, Teas and More!J’s Homemade-Bethel www.jshomemade.comElderberry syrupJ's Homemade is a local company producing handcrafted elderberry products, most commonly used as a natural daily immune support. In 2018, founder Julie Messina started J's Homemade when she couldn't find a good quality elderberry syrup without junky ingredients at the health food store. J's Homemade's mission is to provide families with truly natural elderberry products, made simply with ingredients that you can trust and feel good about giving to your family. Their line of elderberry products include Original Elderberry Syrup, Vegan Elderberry Syrup, Organic Elderberry Gummies, and Elderberry Syrup DIY Kits. You can find J's Homemade products in some stores across Fairfield and Litchfield county and on their website, www.jshomemade.com. Nit Noi Provisions-Norwalk www.nitnoiprovisions.comBroth, soupsNit Noi Provisions crafts superior broth and Thai dishes, using pasture-raised animals and organic vegetables, sourced locally and sustainably. They offer an array of broth- focused, delicious, and immune boosting menu items, designed to accommodate varying dietary restrictions and preferences, from vegan and gluten-free to family take-out sets and broth supported “fasting.” Their most popular offerings include their broth bar items: Restore (On-The-Go Nourishment) - organic vegetable broth or chicken bone broth, topped with scallion, cilantro, fried garlic, chili vinegar and Thai chili (vegan option, GF, nut and dairy free); Defense (Morning, Evening Broth) - organic vegetable broth or chicken bone broth, poached ginger, pickled ginger, fresh squeezed lime juice (vegan option, GF, nut and dairy free); Revive (Morning, Afternoon Broth) - organic vegetable broth or chicken bone broth, coconut milk, turmeric, cardamom, date, pickled ginger (vegan option, GF, nut and dairy free); and Vegan Coconut Soup - Thai coconut soup made with organic vegetable broth or chicken bone broth, coconut milk, organic mushroom, organic tofu, snow pea shoot, galangal, kaffir lime leaf, lemongrass, and chili oil (V, GF, nut and dairy free). Act Natural Health and Wellness-Torrington, Wolcottwww.actnaturalhealth.comSupplements, hair and skin care, beauty, homeopathy, natural pet careBorn of the vision to create healthy a lifestyle and extend it to the community, Act Natural specializes in vitamins, supplements, herbs and homeopathic remedies. Have questions? They have a nutritional consultant on staff.Arogya Holistic Healing-Westportwww.arogya.netTea, skin care, wellnessNot only a comprehensive purveyor of quality loose teas, natural skin care products and herbal remedies, but a center for integrative wellness, offering such therapies as yoga, acupuncture, Traditional Chinese Medicine, massage and bodywork.Barvida-Darienwww.thebarvida.comFresh juice, smoothies, bowlsEverything is organic, non-GMO, 100% plant based and made on premises. They offer a dozen creative smoothies, vibrant fresh juices, and wellness shots that are crammed full of superfoods. Healthy take-out (or eat in) takes the form of colorful Acai and Buddha Bowls and piled high Avocado Toasts. They also have a variety of latte drinks, from Matcha to Turmeric and more.BD Provisions-New Milford, Newtown, New Milfordwww.bdprovisions.comBulk foodsBD Provisions has hundreds of healthy (and some more indulgent) products sold by the pound and available in sustainable containers. Buy as much as you need and you control the final price you pay. BD Provisions also carries dozens of gluten free products, freshly roasted coffee beans, Organic Maple Syrup on tap, Organic Snack Bites and unique grains like Organic Cracked Freekeh and Organic Jade Green Rice.Chamomille Natural Foods-Danburyhttps://chamomillenaturalfoods.wordpress.comSupplements, juice, produce, body and householdAll of your natural and organic needs from fresh produce and supplements, to body care and household items that are good for you and the planet. They also have a fresh juice bar and a Nutritional Counselor on staff for any questions for needs you might have on your wellness journey.Candlewood Valley Mushroomswww.cvmushrooms.comDried mushrooms, mushroom growing supplies, classesGo beyond white buttons and Portobellos and check out Candlewood Valley Mushrooms. They specialize in “uncommon delectables” like Oyster, Chestnut and Lion’s Mane mushrooms. CVM also sells packs of dried mushrooms online and posts recipes on their website, just in case you were wondering what to do with these beauties. Check their website to see where to purchase fresh.Clean Juice-Darien, Simsburywww.cleanjuice.comJuice, smoothies, healthy take-outSince 2014, Clean Juice has been offering organic cold-pressed juices, protein smoothies, acas bowls, salads, sandwiches, and wraps. Their mission is to offer a healthy and delicious “fast food alternative” to communities. Know what’s helpful? You can check out their website for detailed ingredient lists and calorie counts on each and every product…then swing by to try some.Connecticut Valley Mycological Societywww.cvmsfungi.orgMushrooms, foragingLooking for a deeper dive into the world of mushrooms and foraging? Check out the Connecticut Valley Mycological Society. The group hosts various “forays” (foraging expeditions) from early May through November and are a useful resource for all-things-mushroom.Cross Culture Kombucha-Danburywww.crossculturekombucha.comKombuchaHave you tried Kombucha yet? It is a (cold) tea which has been fermented with a culture (read: beneficial bacteria for your gut). They offer a diverse range of flavors such as Mojito, Jalapeno Watermelon, Grapefruit Refresher, Cherry Vanilla, Jasmine, Blueberry Ginger. Their Hopped Peach and Hip Hops are phenomenal stand-ins for a craft beer. Check website for vendor locations or order directly.East Coast Kombucha Company-Norwalkwww.eastcoastkombucha.com KombuchaAn organic, probiotic packed fermented tea, brewed right in South Norwalk. East Coast has developed 5 mouth-watering flavors (classic, Hibiscus, Blueberry Ginger, Watermelon Basil, Ginger) as well as special “Limited Flavors” (current offerings: Peach Rose, Pineapple, Lemon-LIme, Strawberry). This is a mighty tasty way to help strengthen your gut biome. Sold in cans, bottles and growlers, they offer delivery and curbside pickup.Edge of the Woods Market-New Havenwww.eotwm.comBulk, healthy take-out, bakery, supplements, produceNatural foods market complete with fresh take-away foods, freshly made GF pizzas (and slices) and an extensive bakery with breads, kosher, GF, vegan and DF dessert options. They also have an extensive bulk item area from pantry basics to snacks, spices and herbs. Fat Stone Farm-Lymewww.fat-stone-farm.comElderberry, vinegars, honey, maple syrupStock up now on farm-made, Connecticut Elderberry-Apple Shots: fresh-pressed elderberry with the addition of Fat Stone Farm’s own Apple Cider Syrup. They guarantee that this is the least-processed elderberry syrup on the current market. Looking for a healthful gift for someone, get their Elderberry Gummy Kit. Also, an online special now: Mix-and-Match cases of 12 (specially indicated) products are 25% off.Food Works Natural Market-Guilford, Old Saybrookwww.foodworksnaturalmarket.comBulk, fresh produce, deli, fresh juice bar, healthy take-outAlmost 30 years of supporting local farmers along the CT shoreline! They offer a hefty section of bulk herbs, grains, bean, baking flours, snacks, granola and dried fruit, much of which is organic. Gluten-free bulk items available too. In-store and curbside pickup available. Check out their website for discount programs.Fruta Deli and Cafe-Bridgeportwww.frutajuicebar.comFresh juices, smoothies, healthy take-out, snacksLarge selection of juice bar drinks, smoothies, protein shakes, superfood-packed “Boosters”, as well as salads, sandwiches, breakfast and lunch items.Good Bones Broth Company-Bridgeportwww.goodbonesbroth.comBrothDelivery service for chicken and beef broths. Organic grass-fed beef, organic chickens and organic veggies all contribute to these nutrient, protein and collagen filled broths (they even have a skin care line coming soon!)Harvest Moon Health Foods-Putnam http://harvestmoonhealthfoodsstore.tflmag.comBulk, blog, supplements, allergen-free products, raw milk, classesSince 2003, Harvest Moon has been supplying the community with bulk dried fruits, nuts, seeds and a post-office box-style wall containing over 100 dried herbs and spices. This small store is jam-packed, their website is full of healthy recipes and “Wellness tools” and they also host event and classes.Heather Carey-Southportwww.heathercarey.comNutritionist, cooking classesNutritionist, whole foods chef, and speaker. Not sure how to attack healthy eating and living? Heather Carey can help guide, inspire, and show you how to cook at the The Green Palette kitchen and online.Herbal Deva-Westportherbal-deva-llc.square.site/Elderberry syrup, herbal goods, teas, skincareHerbal Deva is a second generation clinical herbalist serving the local community with medicinal herbs of the highest quality and has been making Elderberry Syrup with local CT honey and Dragon Fire Cider with all local ingredients for 20 years. You can find Herbal Deva products online at Etsy @HerbalDevaLLC or herbaldeva.com.It’s Only Natural Market-Middletownwww.itsonlynaturalmarket.comKombucha on tap, supplements, healthy take-out, produce, skincareSaunter over to ION and belly up to their taps. On any given day, there are 8-10 taps of Aqua ViTea kombucha ready for your cups or refillable bottles. You can even bring your own bottle and fill ‘er up. Flavors such as blueberry cardamon (a best seller), ginger, peachmint, pink lady apple, strawberry, elderberry and turmeric will whet your whistle.Juice Press/Equinox-Darien, Southportwww.juicepress.comSmoothies, cleanses, market item delivery, healthy home care, DIY smoothie kitsGreen smoothies (spinach, kale and assorted fruits), organic fruit smoothies, shakes (with cauliflower? yup!), colorful acai or Blue Magic bowls with lots of good greens, nuts, nut butters, milks, and your choice of toppings. If these deliciously fresh and nutrient packed items don’t strike your fancy, design your own smoothie with veggies, nuts, seeds and powders of your choice.Liquid Nirvana-Avon, Glastonburywww.liquid-nirvana.comFresh juices, smoothiesUsing highest quality local and organic produce, products include smoothies, protein shakes, acai bowls, smoothie bowls, fresh fruit and vegetable juices, juice detox programs, salads, paninis, and make-your-own options. Everything is homemade and exactly as you would make it at home (but better).Moon Shots Juices-Madisonwww.drinkmoonshots.comFresh juices, fresh almond milk, cleanses, vegan snacksAnd antique “juice truck” that produces organic fresh pressed juices and almond milk. Feeling the need to lighten up? Try their juice cleanses, which range from a 24 hour detox to 7 days. See website for local pickup and delivery.Nature’s Goods Market-Middleburywww.naturesgoodsmarket.comSupplements, body and household items, fresh soups, fresh juicesOver 4,000 square feet of healthy goodness and filled to the brim with organic goodness. Grains, seeds, nuts, herbs, spices. Also bone broth, organic juices (with special immunity drinks)New Morning Market-Woodburywww.newmorningmarket.comOrganic produce, supplements, locally made products, catering, wellnessLocal, organic, non-GMO groceries from produce to meat and seafood, cheeses, huge selection of skin and body care items, supplements, local artisan goods and gifts, organic cafe and juice bar, healthy prepared foods.OC Organic Kitchen-Danburyhttps://ocorganickitchen.comDine-in, take-out, KetoOrganic foods for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Huge dessert and pastry menu, along with coffee drinks, smoothies. Free delivery every day.Penzeys Spices-Hartford, Norwalkwww.penzeys.comSpices5 different types of cardamon, 17 different pepper/peppercorns, 5 various vanillas. Are you getting the idea of the variety that Penzeys stocks? They don’t just have a spice or an herb, they have different kinds within most categories. You never realized that you want to try so many cinnamons, salts, vanillas, pepper, or curry.Pure Alchemy Conscious Cafe-Wallingfordwww.purealchemyjuice.comHealthy take-out, fresh juice, smoothies/bowls, tonics, entreesSpecializing in “High Vibe” food-pure juices, creative smoothies, protein shakes to stick to your ribs, hot or cold tonics like a Chaga Latte, lunch wraps, salads, burgers and more.Ravenswood Natural Health-Simsburywww.ravenswoodnaturalhealth.comSupplements, local handcrafted gifts, teas, bulkTeas, supplements, local artisanal goods, home and beauty and everything in between. There is a DIY counter for small batch items, they sell herbs in bulk and in Small Batch amounts to cut down on waste and you can even bring in your own containers for items like shampoos, lotions and detergent to cut down on plastic waste.Sage Rootz-Guilfordwww.sagerootz.comElderberry, skin care, teas, workshopsAlong with selling elderberry syrup and elderberry tea, they also stock cute kits to make your own elderberry syrup or a gift kit to give (talk about the gift that keeps on giving). Check their website and stay tuned to their events, as they have also offered classes on making the purpley, syrupy good stuff. A healthy twist on a girls’ night out!Seacoast Mushrooms-Mysticwww.seacoastmushrooms.comFresh mushrooms, growing kitsGrowing between 600-800 pounds of up to 10 different mushrooms a week, the world is your oyster-blue oyster mushroom that is-when it comes to exploring intriguing forms of delicious fungi. Lion’s Mane (taste reminiscent of lobster or crab meat), King Oyster (meaty texture), Blue Oyster (sweet, woody taste) and so many more for all sorts of cooking, from soups to salads and “burgers”. Best part, order online to pick up at select farmers’ markets across the state. The Spice Mill-Manchesterwww.spicemillct.comSpices, herbs, in-store eventsFrom dried mushrooms to whole-dried or powdered chilis, or bulk nuts to herbs and spices, this family-owned business began by providing all of these ingredients to restaurants. Now, they have a retail space as well, so whether you need 3 oz or 5 lbs, you can get what you need without waste.The Spice and Tea Exchange-Guilford, Mysticwww.spiceandtea.comBulk spices, teas, wellness packs, tea accessoriesRows and rows of bulk teas and spices in store and online. Online, they offer wellness bundle and teas/herbs such as Ginger Turmeric Herbal Tea, Mate, Matcha Tea Sticks. Check out their Hibiscus and Chamomile tonics and The Tonic Collection containing powder blends of turmeric, beet root and chaga mushroom.Super Seedz-Guilfordwww.superseedz.comSnacksShell-less, roasted pumpkin seeds in a range of flavors for every palate, from the sweet and chocolate coated to savory and spicy. See website to order.Thyme & Season-Hamdenwww.thymeandseason.netBulk, supplements, healthy take-out, lecture series“20 years Keeping Hamden Healthy” with fresh produce, a wide range of supplements, healthy take-way items from their hot bar, including individual dinners to pre-order. Pantry staples in bulk or family-sized portions. Wellness Lecture Series in person and on website. Loyalty rewards program.Twin Star Apothecary-New Milfordwww.twinstartribe.comApothecary, bulk, events, classesAn extensive apothecary that stocks a wide variety of compounded tinctures, salves, tonics, flower essence blends, over 100 bulk organic and wildcrafted herbs as well as plenty of books on these subjects. Their calendar is always full of interesting classes and events, so be sure to check those out as well.The Well Natural Market-Wiltonwww.shopthewell.coHealthy take-out, broth, supplements“Good health through good food” is their mission and one of the ways they help you to achieve that is with their daily-made bone broth. Take-out by the cup/quart or you might like to try a 3 or 5 day bone broth cleanse. All foods (soups, salads, sandwiches) are fresh and made on premises, and use the highest quality organic and natural ingredients. Wildflower Centre for Natural Healing-Norwalkwww.wildflowercnh.comApothecary, wellness boutiqueOffering apothecary services such as herbal compounding and custom tea blending. along with botanical and nutritional supplements, healing remedies, herbal tinctures elixirs, bulk medicinal dry herbs, organic loose leaf teas, superfood blends, and essential oils.Whole Harmony-sold throughout CTwww.wholeharmony.comTeas, wellness tonics, classesAll of Whole Harmony’s products are made without preservatives or added sugars and they dedicate themselves to whole plant medicine. Among other tonics and teas, they make the classic Elderberry Syrup, Elderberry Restore (with the adaptogens Schisandra Berries, Ashwaganda, Eleuthero Root,Tulsi), and Elderberry Calm (with soothing elements of Hops, Passionflower, and Skullcap).
