When I moved from California to Colorado the only thing I missed more than the ocean was Trader Joe's. Colorado's liquor laws do not allow grocery stores to sell hard liquor or wine, so Trader Joe's won't be moving in until something is legislated in its favor. My new friends told me about Sunflower Market, however, and I gave it a try.

Honestly, the first trip I wasn't completely sold. Whole Foods is closer to me, and their samples keep my kids really happy. After a few months of over-exhausting my grocery budget, however, I knew a compromise was in order. I returned to Sunflower.

The positive features of this smallish market far outweigh the negatives. I am able to find great bargains; their brand boasts "Serious Food, Silly Prices". The choices, while sometimes limited, save me time because I'm not so caught up in comparing twenty different brands of pasta sauce. The Sunflower Market brand foods remind me of Trader Joe's--simple things like artichoke hearts with no crazy additives at a reasonable price. The bulk food section is easy to navigate. Their supplements selection is plentiful. People gather in the coffee bar area at all times of the day. There are quirky items like a huge selection of Crocs in the front of the store.

I'm a Sunflower Market convert, though I still dabble in some items at Whole Foods. I even force myself into King Sooper's for a few items I can't get anywhere else. That's the great thing about the middle of Fort Collins! Everything you need or could want is right here.

Sunflower Farmers Market
[where: 2601 S Lemay Ave, Fort Collins, CO 80525]