Shop at Your Local Family Market: Support the Families That Have Been Supporting You

They’ve been there through thick and thin for, in some cases, more than 150 years. They source from local farms, purveyors and artisans to bring fresh and often organic to your neighborhood. They know your name, and it’s likely they knew you as a kid, too. They’re your local family market, stalwarts of our communities. 

Like many family businesses, our family markets have been strained to meet their customers’ needs during the pandemic. But their work ethic, their commitment to community, and their strong sense of duty has kept them working hard and open so that we can fill our refrigerators, freezers and pantries during a trying time. Let’s continue to support them, now more than ever, so they’ll be here for generations to come.

Martindale’s Natural Market

It’s roots are deep — going back to 1869 — so it’s no wonder Martindale’s boasts of being the first health food store in the United States. In other words, this natural market specialized in fresh local, organic and gluten-free food before it was cool. It carries bulk foods (almost all of which are now in prepackaged containers to follow COVID-19 safety protocols); meats (try wild boar, elk and venison for a change!), poultry, dairy and more in Martindale’s refrigerator and freezer sections; an inspiring array of grocery items, such as teas and coffees, canned goods, desserts and more; seasonal produce; beauty and body care including CBD items; vitamins and supplements; and what they call “odds and ends” — non-edibles (think paper goods!) and pet care products. You can shop safely in the store with these guidelines, which include hand sanitizing, masking, distancing and respecting store capacity. Prefer to order online for curbside pickup? That’s also available, too. The market is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Closed Sunday.

1172 Baltimore Pike, Springfield, (610) 543-6811.

Colonial Market

Also known as The Original Colonial Village Meat Market, this is the place to go for an old-fashioned, full-service butcher shop experience! The poultry is grade A, the beef is certified Angus, and both are antibiotic- and steroid-free. Enjoy corn-fed Pennsylvania pork that’s raised with no MSG or gluten. This market has been family-owned and operated for more than four decades, and it boasts a must-try deli with premium meats and cheeses, homemade salads, sandwiches (starting with breakfast!) and a grill. You can also pick up the things you need to go with your finds, such as Colonial’s own Italian olive oil, red roasted peppers with garlic, banana peppers, hoagie dressing and premium flavored balsamic vinegars. If you’re not in the mood to cook, try a prepared dinner that’s ready to heat and serve. When you shop in-store, note that all precautions, including masks and social distancing, must be taken. You can also call ahead for deli orders and catering options, too. Bonus: Each week there’s a “Sunday Funday” giveaway! All you have to do is comment, like or share the market’s Facebook posts. Open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

1305 West Chester Pike, Havertown, (610) 449-1776.

Gentile’s Market

Pretty much known as the go-to destination for fresh fruits and veggies, this market also stocks dairy; specialty items, such as pasta and sauce, breads, cookies, coffee and other staples; and the seasonal and novelty must-haves, like flowers, veggie plants and soil, pumpkins, wreaths and more. It’s what you’d expect from a family-owned and operated market that’s been taking care of its customers for more than 50 years. It’s got the feel of your favorite farm stand, but it’s open all year! If it’s in season, it’s available. We love going to the market, but we also find ourselves routinely hitting the website for healthy lifestyle and recipe links. A reminder that all COVID-19 safety precautions are being taken: Masks must be worn and social distancing must be maintained in the market. Open Monday through Friday 7 a.m. to 6:45 p.m., Saturday 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Note: 6:30 a.m. to 7 a.m. is reserved for seniors and immunocompromised members of our community.

40 S. Newtown Street Rd., Newtown Square, (610) 356-9755.

Linvilla Orchards

This family spot — family owned and operated since 1914 — conjures up memories of hay rides, festivals and family picnics. Since the novel coronavirus hit, the playground, animals and picnic grove have been closed, but other activities such as fishing and pick-your-own are open (keep an eye here for the latest). the Farm Market continues to delight. The Farm Market is packed with fresh produce, baked goods and gourmet specialties, and we’re delighted to report that signature pies and other house-baked good are available, too. When you visit, remember that all precautions are being taken, so masks must be worn and social distancing is required. Online and phone-in orders for next-day pick up are available; place your order by 2 p.m. for next-day service. There is a $5 service charge for curbside pickup. Delivery is available Monday through Friday within a 5-mile radius of the market. Minimum purchase is $20, and orders must be placed by 2 p.m. for next-day delivery. There is a $10 delivery service charge. Note: Same-day service is not available for curbside or delivery. The market is open seven days 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. is reserved for senior citizens and immunocompromised persons. 

137 West Knowlton Rd., Media, (610) 876-7116.

Swarthmore CO-OP

This community-owned food cooperative’s market that dates back to 1932 is open to all. It gets financial support from more than 1,800 households to bring locally farmed food options to the table. You’ll find that it’s filled with fresh produce, meats, seafood, specialty and grocery products. In a hurry? There’s sushi, sandwiches, prepared foods and baked goods ready to go. Look for monthly specials, too! When going to the CO-OP, please note the current policies, and watch the CO-OP’s website for the latest COVID-19-related updates, which include a limited number of people in the store at any one time, no reusable bags, using sanitizing stations, wearing face masks and social distancing. Also important at this time: Please submit only one order per day for home delivery or curbside pickup. View the available items under the Shop links. Delivery is within a 5-mile radius of the co-op. Minimum order is $30, and there is a $7.95 delivery fee. Order must be placed using this form; no phone orders will be taken. Your shopper will contact you to discuss your order and to secure credit card payment. Current store hours are Sunday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Monday and Friday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday from noon to 8 p.m. Note: Wednesday from 9 to 10 a.m. is for seniors and immunocompromised shoppers.

Wolff’s Apple House

What started as a farm stand in 1910 has been passed down to generations, growing from crops of apples to sell to the grocery and market that it is today. There’s still a dizzying assortment of produce, but the grocery is a local, healthy alternative to “big box” options. Gramma would be impressed by the jarred veggies and jams, jellies, preserves, fruit butters, pickled products, dipping oils, sauerkraut — many carry the Wolff’s name, and most are from local purveyors. You’ll also find breakfast cereals, quinoa, lentils, tea, coffee, honey and Pennsylvania maple syrup, to name a few. Look for prepared foods, dairy and eggs, free-range meats and baked goods. There’s even something for Fido — locally made dog biscuits. Shoppers should be aware that all precautions are currently being taken, including masks and social distancing. Curbside pickup is available; simply call in your order and it will be ready within three days. Orders are brought to your car for no-contact pickup. Open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; 8 to 9 a.m. is reserved for seniors and immunocompromised shoppers. Wolff’s is closed for most holidays, and hours around holidays vary.

81 S. Pennell Rd., Media, (610) 566-1680.

Want to know more about everything Delco? We’re more than just your source for good eats — we’re your source for Delco From Home Experiences and where to get takeout and support local businesses in Delaware County, Pennsylvania. We’re Visit Delco, PA, and we’ve got you covered during the coronavirus crisis (and beyond). Contact us at (610) 565-3679, by email or online.

— Nina Malone

Featured photo courtesy of Swarthmore CO-OP