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Oryana Natural Foods Market Turns 35

Things certainly have changed since Oryana opened in 1973. What began as a small group of families distributing sacks of brown rice and oats from a Traverse City back porch has grown into Northern Michigan’s only certified organic retailer, with a large and growing customer base and a full line of grocery products. After outgrowing four previous locations, Oryana launched a 2007 expansion project at its present home on Tenth Street in Traverse City, which resulted in 9,000 square feet of retail space. The expansion also included the introduction of the in-store Lake Street Café, where Oryana customers can enjoy locally roasted Fair Trade coffee and espresso drinks, delicious smoothies, or fresh sandwiches on locally made bread, all while taking advantage of the Café’s comfortable seating and wireless internet access.

Despite Oryana’s dramatic evolution, the store remains committed to good food including locally produced products. In addition to many produce items grown on local family farms, Oryana carries eggs, milk, cheese, jams, soaps, candles, and more, all produced by local farmers, artisans and small companies. Alongside this local fare, Oryana stocks a full selection of grocery and household items. Although not all items are certified organic, all are evaluated using a rigorous set of purchasing policies. “Shopping at Oryana is a food-lover’s fantasy,” remarks long-time shopper Woody Smith. “Everything is fresh and carefully selected for taste, quality and health. I love it!”

This emphasis on good, high-quality food has broad appeal, and everyone is welcome at Oryana. Shoppers new to the store may be surprised by the wide array of ‘mainstream’ items. “I love the selection of all-natural frozen appetizers,” says Sandy Foley of Traverse City. “The Alexia Pesto Chicken Pizza Snacks are amazing!”

Whether you are a long-time fan or a new shopper looking for a wide selection of fresh, local, high-quality foods, stop by Oryana on Tenth Street at Lake Avenue, grab a cup of coffee from the Lake Street Café, and help Oryana celebrate 35 years of providing great food to the Grand Traverse community.

Oryana is located at 260 E. 10th Street, call them at 231-947-0941. Hours are Monday-Saturday 7:30am-8pm, Sunday 10am-6pm.