Any NYC raw foodies out there?

[newrawfoodie08]

I'm moving to NYC in a few weeks and I'm trying to plan ahead so I keep my new raw lifestyle going. While it's super easy to find inexpensive, fresh produce in Minnesota (where I currently live), I'm wondering...does anyone know where the best places to find fresh produce in NYC are (best for price and value)? I'll be a grad student, so my income is a bit limited. My apt is in the Upper West Side, but I'd be willing to make a journey for my fruit and veg. Thanks!

[Care4raw]

You'll probably get many replies but off the top of my head one of the most wonderful places is the Union Square farmers market. Heaps of fresh produce from many organic farms, wonderful vibe too. Its in the Square , about E14th St, sure you can google it for directions and days.

Across from that is a big Whole Foods and Trader Joes too.Trader Joes has good prices but Whole Foods can sometimes have really good prices too,despite their reputation.

Close to all that is a raw food cafe (E23rd) for a prepared raw food splurge that is casual and not too expensive, maybe here someone knows their name??Wonderful .

Oh and soon its Apple season . Just get out of the city to some Orchards, cheeeeeeep and very plentiful apples for picking that will keep you going for ages!

I am not sure how you feel about inorganic prooduce but if it's ok for you, there's many street vendors with very good produce prices too!

You'll have a blast..probably some pot lucks worth going to too!
Have fun!

[Care4raw]

Oh, just noticed you said Upper Westside, Columbia i am guessing.OK, I think there's some good Farmers markets up there, just don't know them(you can still subway it to Union Sq). NYC has great farmers markets in all locations of the city. many of the same farmers. There's actually a small one near the 72nd St subway, something like that. Theres a big Whole Foods there too, at Columbus Circle.
Oh wait!Fairway!!!You'll be near 2 Fairways, best and cheapest produce. Bit of a scene as people travel to get to it,its that good!! Google that too...
Gosh I've said enough. Sorry if this is making your head spin!Hope it all helps.

[RawYorkCity]

Hi there, I live on the Upper West Side! Fairway is my second home (specifically the upstairs because that's where the organic produce is). If organic is too pricey the store features all kinds of fruits and vegetables downstairs. You wouldn't believe the types of melons they have. The store will be crowded (but it's open 24/7, so that makes up for it!).

Farmer markets are throughout, and there's even an organic farmer's market catering service I use called "Urban Organics." They deliver fresh, local, and organic produce to your door. Pretty neat! :)

[newrawfoodie08]

Oooh thanks! I'm getting excited already!

[RawBabie]

Hi Newrawfoodie! I just moved from NYC in january '09. I was raw in NYC starting in january '08. All of the market mentioned are fantastic, you'll be fine! :)

As far as the raw restaurants that you will want to try out (it's just great to be around other raw foodists, no? :D):

Pure Food and Wine (sit-down)/One Lucky Duck (take-out)
Quintessence (my top pick)
Jubb's Longevity
Raw Soul
Bonobo's
Caravan of Dreams

Have fun in NYC!!

[Eva]

Soooo many raw foodies in NYC! You're going to love getting connected. If you check out the meetups at www.meetup.com , it'll be easy to get in on everything. They do free yoga in the park, potlucks, restaurant and market meetups, etc. :)

[buffalogal]

Lucky you!! Living in New York City - my favorite city in the whole world!! I'm so jealous!!! I hope you have a great time exploring NYC as well as all the wonderful raw spots it has to offer!!:D

[raven]

Welcome to New York! It's become a raw foodist's haven and you'll have no problem finding abundant produce. Another good restaurant that hasn't been mentioned yet is Adelina's on 17th Street, across from Pure Food and Wine. The prices are very reasonable.

As Eva mentioned, check out meetup.com. There are many meetups in the city and surrounding areas and so many lectures and presentations going on.

Suzy

[newrawfoodie08]

Wow, thanks for all of the suggestions!