The Grocery
With crates of in-season produce, it’s a cozy, inviting space to browse through farmers market finds such as heirloom tomatoes. But cafe tables and the counter lined with blackboard menu items also mean your errand can turn into a lazy lunch of cold-pressed juice and the All Ohio sandwich ($7) made with Montana Girl mustard, roast beef and Cleveland Kraut. 3815 Lorain Ave., Cleveland, 216-303-9099,
thegroceryohc.com
Lake Road Market
The larger selection means shopping local is less fuss. Plus the knowledgeable and welcoming staff is on hand to help — you might even score a free sample. A small chat with a worker and a customer on a recent trip helped us uncover a few tasty finds: Japanese yams and ready-to-eat enchiladas. 20267 Lake Road, Rocky River, 440-331-9326
Metropolitan Market
If you’ve got a heartier appetite, head east. Find aged beef, rotating sushi and rare chops here. Then complement those high-quality dishes with local additions such as Randy’s Pickles, Judy Oasis’ Hummus and Sidekicks Salsa for restaurant-quality meals at home. 30750 Pinetree Road, Pepper Pike, 216-896-0500, metropolitanmarket.com
Tremont General Store
Nudge the store’s screen door flanked by half-circle American flags for a slice of old-school Americana. Nosh on a Cleveland Bagel Co. treat and a fresh cup of Erie Island Coffee Co. brew while perusing local sundries for the kitchen and home including local honey, butter and milk and coasters from 2 Sails Woodworks. Plus, find plants including tomatoes, peppers, flowers and holiday pines in a backyard garden center. 2418 Professor Ave., Cleveland, 216-288-7167
