Think it’s too expensive to shop local? You might be surprised. With independent operators surviving on slimmer margins than big brands, and large retailers passing on rising costs, the price gap is shrinking. And in many cases, staying local while shopping smart can save us money, while offering better quality produce (and a glowing sense of satisfaction).
If you’re tired of paying a premium for strawberries you know will be mouldy by tomorrow, it may be time to flex your purchasing power. Keep it fresh and keep it local – it’s time to use it or lose it!
Leisure Coast Fruit Market & Deli
Their tagline is “Fresher, Cheaper, Better” and the local legends at Leisure Coast have kept their promise to the Illawarra for over 50 years. Rows upon rows of fresh fruits and vegetables greet you before you even reach the door. Inside, a full onsite butcher, deli and range of local and international groceries make this an unmissable stop for weekly bargains.
75 Princes Highway, Fairy Meadow
Thirroul Fruit Barn
If your nervous system feels too fried for Leisure Coast, pop into Thirroul Fruit Barn, a small-but-mighty family-run grocer that’s served the community for 40 years. Come for organic fruit platters, leave with armfuls of fresh flowers, premium eggs, award-winning honey or local dairy products.
1B McCauley St, Thirroul
Kiama Farmers’ Market
Every Wednesday from 2pm-5pm in winter, Surf Beach is the place to be with an unbeatable selection of local produce straight from the source. Fruit, vegetables, eggs, honey, seafood, meats and flowers sit alongside specialist stalls, with a selection of food trucks and live music completing the feel-good vibes.
Surf Beach, Kiama. Stay up to date on Facebook.
Queen Street Bakery
For many years, Queen Street Bakery has been Warilla’s not-so-hidden gem to those in the know. This family-owned and operated spot has recently expanded with a fresh new look – but its glowing counters are still packed full of the old-school cakes, pastries and breads you know and love. Pop in before closing and you might get lucky with some extra-special bargains.
24 Queen St, Lake Illawarra
Daily Grind Coffee Roasters
Making coffee at home doesn’t have to sap the joy from your mornings. From an unassuming warehouse in Gerringong, Daily Grind sources quality beans from growers around the world. Treat yourself to a brew from the onsite café (you’ll make one at home tomorrow!) and pick up some freshly-roasted beans, ground to your liking.
2/9 Bergin St, Gerringong
Rosa Dora Annabella
Blink and you’ll miss this European deli, but pull off King Street in time and be rewarded by a world of continental goods, including cheeses, pickles, cold cuts, baklava, rare grocery items and olives by the bucketful.
32-40 King St, Warrawong
Passion in Fruit
Did you know the Illawarra’s premium fruit and veg wholesaler is also open to the public? Boasting top quality Aussie fruit and veg, seasonal specials and one of the largest selections of Meredith Dairy products on the coast, Passion in Fruit is worth the drive. Bring cash and grab a bargain.
Unit 12/13, 2 Drummond Street, Wollongong
Kiama Fisheries
Perched on the edge of Kiama Harbour, this tiny seafood outlet punches above its weight with fresh catches as well as a healthy supply of mussels and oysters from our neighbouring regions. Keep an eye on their Facebook page to hear about any local specials about to hit land. Look for the yellow building – if you hit the rockpool, you’ve gone too far.
Kiama Harbour, Kiama
Your local butcher
Seriously, pick any local butcher! Ask them what to do with those intimidating cuts you’ve always been curious about. Or just ask them to chop your meat the way you like it (yes, even your boring meal-prep chicken). The quality and service are miles better than anything you’ll find packed in plastic – promise.
Do you have a favourite local producer or provider? Spread the word by giving them a shout-out on our Facebook (facebook.com/coalcoastmag) or Instagram (instagram.com/coalcoastmag) pages.
We’d love to send you occassional news and updates of happenings along the Coal Coast to your inbox!
We’d love to send some occasional news and updates of happenings along our Coal Coast to your inbox!
