Over the years, I’ve seen plenty of grocery store chains in Arizona come and go. For example, do AJ Bayless, Southwest Supermarket, or ABCO ring a bell? In the last two decades, national chains have taken over the grocery market here in Arizona and finding locally-owned stores has become more difficult and, in some places, incredibly rare. If you miss knowing that your dollars are staying in Arizona’s economy, you’re in luck! Today, we’re going to check out a few independent, locally-owned grocery stores where you can pick up your daily needs and specialty items.
- Bargain Smart, Camp Verde
Bargain Smart/Facebook This little store keeps a large variety of items in stock, including fresh fruits, vegetables, and even non-food items. On Fridays, they run specials with free and donated food, so it’s definitely a place to check out if you’re looking for a deal in the area. Address: 873 East Howards Road, Camp Verde
- Bisbee Food Co-Op, Bisbee
The Bisbee Food Co-Op/Facebook
The Bisbee Food Co-Op/Facebook This grocery store has been open for 35 years in Bisbee, providing a nice variety of groceries. You’ll find plenty of local items, foods made in-house, and friendly smiles. Address: 72 Erie Street, Bisbee
- Food Conspiracy Co-Op, Tucson
Kathy L./Yelp
Kathy L./Yelp There’s no conspiracy going on here! Another food co-op, you’ll find a large range of typical grocery items sourced from local vendors. Don’t forget to stop by the kitchen for deliciously fresh food for lunch or a snack before shopping. Address: 412 North 4th Avenue, Tucson
- Fujiya Market, Tempe
Tony P./Yelp
Tony P./Yelp Located just a mile or so from downtown Tempe, this small store focuses on Japanese cuisine and goods. Here, you’ll find incredible snacks, seasonings, drinks, and goods to make your next sushi party amazing. You can also grab lunch here; they serve bento boxes, sushi, and ramen. Address: 1335 West University Drive, Tempe
- Lee Lee’s International Supermarket, Chandler
Jak K./Yelp
Jeff S./Yelp If you’re a fan of Asian foods, chances are you’ve heard of this huge store in Chandler. It feels a bit like walking into another world since the store is filled with foods that are foreign to most Americans but you’ll find great deals. Address: 2025 North Dobson Road, Chandler
- Mekong Supermarket, Mesa
Jeff S./Yelp Competition for Lee Lee’s above, this is one store in a massive shopping center filled with Asian restaurants, shops, and businesses. The grocery store sells just about anything you’ll need for dinner! Address: 66 South Dobson Road, Mesa
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Bargain Smart/Facebook
This little store keeps a large variety of items in stock, including fresh fruits, vegetables, and even non-food items. On Fridays, they run specials with free and donated food, so it’s definitely a place to check out if you’re looking for a deal in the area. Address: 873 East Howards Road, Camp Verde
The Bisbee Food Co-Op/Facebook
This grocery store has been open for 35 years in Bisbee, providing a nice variety of groceries. You’ll find plenty of local items, foods made in-house, and friendly smiles. Address: 72 Erie Street, Bisbee
Kathy L./Yelp
There’s no conspiracy going on here! Another food co-op, you’ll find a large range of typical grocery items sourced from local vendors. Don’t forget to stop by the kitchen for deliciously fresh food for lunch or a snack before shopping. Address: 412 North 4th Avenue, Tucson
Tony P./Yelp
Located just a mile or so from downtown Tempe, this small store focuses on Japanese cuisine and goods. Here, you’ll find incredible snacks, seasonings, drinks, and goods to make your next sushi party amazing. You can also grab lunch here; they serve bento boxes, sushi, and ramen. Address: 1335 West University Drive, Tempe
Jak K./Yelp
Jeff S./Yelp
If you’re a fan of Asian foods, chances are you’ve heard of this huge store in Chandler. It feels a bit like walking into another world since the store is filled with foods that are foreign to most Americans but you’ll find great deals. Address: 2025 North Dobson Road, Chandler
Competition for Lee Lee’s above, this is one store in a massive shopping center filled with Asian restaurants, shops, and businesses. The grocery store sells just about anything you’ll need for dinner! Address: 66 South Dobson Road, Mesa
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