Huckleberry’s Natural Market

Huckleberry's Natural Market is a fixture in Spokane for those seeking high-quality, natural, and locally sourced products. More than a simple grocery store, it functions as a multi-faceted establishment combining a supermarket, a liquor store with a notable beer and wine selection, a comprehensive health and wellness shop, and a bustling restaurant known as the 9th Street Bistro. This combination creates a unique destination for health-conscious consumers. Established in 1996, it was the first locally operated natural grocery store in the inland empire and has since expanded, with its flagship Monroe Street location remaining a community hub.

The Shopping Experience: Products and Atmosphere

Upon entering, customers are greeted by what many describe as a cozy, inviting atmosphere, sometimes compared to a more localized Whole Foods. The emphasis is clearly on quality, with an impressive and visually appealing selection of organic produce, much of it sourced from the Inland Northwest. The store’s commitment to local suppliers is a cornerstone of its philosophy, fostering a sense of community and supporting the regional economy. This focus extends beyond produce to packaged goods, artisan cheeses, and an expansive bulk foods section offering everything from grains and spices to teas and flours.

The staff consistently receives high praise for being friendly, knowledgeable, and genuinely helpful, contributing significantly to the positive shopping experience. Customers feel a sense of personal connection, highlighted by glowing reviews that sometimes single out specific employees for their exceptional service. This welcoming environment is complemented by community-focused features like a bulletin board for local events and a history of supporting philanthropic efforts. Some have even noted that the store hosts events like live music, further cementing its role as a community gathering place.

The 9th Street Bistro: A Destination Within a Destination

Perhaps the most celebrated feature of Huckleberry's is its 9th Street Bistro. This in-store eatery is a major draw, offering a vast array of prepared foods that cater to numerous dietary needs. It's particularly renowned for its extensive vegetarian options and vegan-friendly meals. The deli case is filled with a rotating selection of well-prepared salads, from soba noodles to curry red lentils, while the hot bar consistently features delicious meals, often with dedicated vegan choices like tofu jambalaya.

The bistro’s offerings are diverse and made from scratch on-site. Patrons can find everything from freshly rolled sushi and poke bowls to hearty sandwiches, wraps, and daily soups. For those seeking a customized meal, the bistro offers a made-to-order omelet bar on weekend mornings and a pasta bar on Friday and Saturday evenings, allowing diners to choose their own fresh ingredients. This focus on fresh, customizable food makes it a popular spot for breakfast and lunch.

The Juice and Coffee Bar

A key component of the bistro is its dedicated Juice & Coffee Bar, which operates daily from 7 am to 7 pm. This section functions as a high-quality natural juice bar, serving nutritious, freshly squeezed juices and fresh smoothies—perfect for a quick health boost. Whether a customer is looking for a vibrant cold-pressed juice or a custom smoothie made with the store's excellent produce, this counter is a popular stop. The bar also serves a full range of espresso and coffee drinks, making it a versatile spot for any time of day.

Points of Praise: What Customers Love

• Quality and Variety: The unwavering commitment to high-quality, organic, and locally sourced products is the most frequently praised aspect. The sheer variety, from staple groceries to specialty vegan cheeses and hard-to-find items, is a significant advantage.
• Prepared Foods: The 9th Street Bistro is a standout success. The quality, freshness, and extensive range of its hot bar, deli salads, sushi, and made-to-order meals receive rave reviews. The abundance of vegan and vegetarian choices is a major draw for many.
• Community Feel and Staff: The friendly, knowledgeable staff and the store's deep roots in the community create a shopping experience that feels personal and supportive.
• Unique Finds: Beyond food, Huckleberry's surprises with a well-stocked supplement and homeopathic section, often featuring deals on CBD and vitamins, as well as an unexpected selection of non-food items like knitting goods, scarves, and gloves.

Areas for Improvement: Potential Drawbacks

While overwhelmingly popular, Huckleberry's is not without its critiques. Prospective customers should be aware of a few potential downsides that have been noted by patrons.

Pricing

The most common point of contention is the price. As a specialty healthy food store focusing on organic, natural, and gourmet items, its prices are generally higher than conventional supermarkets. Several reviewers describe the store as "spendy" or "expensive," suggesting it may be better suited for acquiring specific, hard-to-find items rather than for a full week's worth of budget grocery shopping. This is a typical trade-off for the quality and sourcing standards the market upholds, but it's a crucial factor for budget-conscious shoppers.

Limited Seating

Despite the incredible popularity of its bistro, the physical space for dining in is quite limited. Reviewers frequently mention the small seating area and recommend ordering food to-go, especially during peak hours. This can be a drawback for those hoping to enjoy a leisurely meal on-site. The store does have a patio, which can alleviate this during warmer months, but the indoor capacity remains a constraint.

Minor Inconsistencies

A few isolated criticisms have emerged regarding operational details. One reviewer pointed out a perceived contradiction in a "natural" market serving its organic juices in plastic cups with plastic straws, raising concerns about environmental practices. Another past review noted a lack of knowledge among deli staff regarding which breads were truly vegan, though this appears to be an older concern. These points, while not widespread, suggest that like any business, there can be occasional inconsistencies that detract from the overall mission.

Ultimately, Huckleberry's Natural Market has earned its reputation as a premier destination in Spokane for natural and organic living. Its strengths lie in its exceptional product quality, deep local sourcing, and a phenomenal prepared foods bistro that caters brilliantly to diverse dietary needs. While the higher price point and limited seating are valid considerations, the overwhelmingly positive customer feedback and the store's unique, community-centric atmosphere make it a valuable asset for those who prioritize health, quality, and supporting local businesses.