takes pride in their holistic approach to shopping for healthy and natural foods. The Farmacy, now under ownership of Kevin and Carrie Tidd, has been in operation for more than 50 years and is the first health foods store in the region. On The Farmacy’s website, it says, “Here at The Farmacy, we focus on providing the natural products necessary to maintain your health, and pride ourselves on being a source of information as well as fuel of the well-being of people all across Appalachia.” The Farmacy is home to a wide variety of food and food supplements that have been locally sourced. Kevin believes that food is medicine and is crucial to one’s own general well-being. “Some people just come here because they feel good being here. It’s about the energy,” Kevin says. On top of all the organic items stocked on the shelves, The Farmacy also serves fresh meals in their deli daily, with more than half of the menu being vegetarian or vegan. If a customer has another dietary need, the Tidd’s say that all the menu items can be substituted to a guests’ liking. “Especially here, compared to other retail establishments, every person that walks through the door, we have to recognize as individuals. They are coming here for a purpose. We’re a healing and wellness store, so they’re coming here to feel something,” Carrie says. For those that need something quick to eat, there are also some inclusive restaurants located in uptown Athens along Court Street that serve dietary-specific foods. Bagel Street Deli serves more than 15 different vegetarian “bagelwiches” and offers substitutions for those who are lactose or gluten intolerant. Fluff Bakery also serves a wide variety of baked goods, brunch foods and bowls that have vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free substitutions. Some of these options include breakfast burritos, wraps and curry rice bowls. Additionally, there is an array of sweet treats such as vegan chocolate chip cookies, gluten-free cream cheese swirl brownies, gluten-free muffins and more. Lastly, at Firdous Express, Greek food lovers have the chance to build their own bowl or gyro with vegan and vegetarian options like falafel, baba ghanoush and grape leaves. Food doesn’t have to be a barrier for people with food allergies and health needs in Athens. With so many businesses that serve fresh, local and natural foods, there’s something for just about everyone to love and safely enjoy. b
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I grew up in Athens and I knew Athens always had a strong sense of community.” RILEY KINNARD CO-OWNER OF KINDRED MARKET
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