Blown away by this amazing small store! After reading the complainy reviews I wasn't sure what to expect when I rolled up, but the outside was cute with a few places to sit and eat, and a cool collection of door mats. When I entered, I found a true gem of a store! As I entered I was greeted by the nicest staff ever as they cheerily went about their work. Other customers were in and out quickly, clearly stopping in for specific items. It's not a large space but wow they have such a great breadth of items. They have a great range of interesting and delicious foods, including a bulk foods section toward the rear of the store. I found so many items that I have never even seen before, and I'm a grocery store aficionado. I mean, I like visiting eclectic markets and supporting local folks like co-ops. One of the highlights was their canned tomatoes and Italian section. They were so inexpensive and Italian imports at that. What a find! I was just here for a snack and found some unusual kola kombucha, interesting crackers, and chewy banana chips, and I found some sage incense for a random photography project I'm working on that needs smoke. Unlike the cheapskates who whined about pricing on their reviews, I didn't find that prices were bad at all. In many instances this store had CHEAPER prices than I've seen elsewhere at large grocery chains! That's incredible! And it didn't have the generic misery of a regular grocery chain either. I felt so happy to be here! I will definitely be back. Oh and I want to comment that everyone here is super cheerful and having fun at work, and it shows in their store. The store is so clean and nice. It has a huge parking lot but there are so many businesses in the lot that it can get a bit crowded for finding a spot to park your car. read more

Large array of products, somewhat overpriced. Cheese and bread selection is broad and high quality. read more

I went there the produce section was basically empty I was shocked! There was small sections of produce scattered on the produce section of the wall! The rest of the store had items, but not that many products are on the shelf so I left after that! read more

I don't come here for the bargain so I don't mind the prices. I come to support a unique neighborhood organic food store while they're still in existence. I live nearby convenience is everything! read more

Outstanding benefit to the neighborhood and area - organic and otherwise quality selections of a wide range of grocery items, fresh breads, fresh fruits etc etc. Friendly staff. Easy parking most of the time. What more can you ask for as an alternative to the big box impersonal; annoying experiences shopping for the foods&drinks you want. read more

I haven't been here in ages, but it seems like it has gotten way more expensive than any other eco-friendly store I shop at. Corn was $0.89 an ear. Just two days prior I bought a locally grown ear from a road side stand just down the street for $0.50. I can't give them less than three stars though, for being supporters of local, organic and fair trade products. I wasn't really looking for anything in particular, but with prices like these, I am sorry to say that I'll stick to MOM's and the Silver Spring Co-op a block from my place. read more

It's pretty expensive and out of the way. If you're in the neighborhood, becoming a member for discounts is probably worthwhile. Their bulk and gluten free sections are substantial and they have a lot of produce for a natural food store (an ironic statement, I realize, but they tend not to do much in this regard). They're vegetarian friendly enough that they have a special note explaining that the chicken salad isn't vegetarian (presumably because there are so many vegetarian items are next to it people assumed it was fake meat). It's nice that they're here, but MOM's and Roots have surpassed them in price and selection. read more

The Bethesda co-op is a local institution that lives up to it's hype (and quirks) as it has since I was a kid and my parents would bring me here to buy bulk foods and tofu before most people had ever heard of tofu and you couldn't imagine it being carried in a regular grocery store. It's a fantastic place to get bulk foods (nuts, grains, spices, etc.) for less than you'd pay elsewhere and much higher quality. For pretty much everything else, it's just a place to run in for a few things you need since it's a lot more expensive than anywhere else for things like cheese, produce or the like. The shining gem of the place is the bulk foods, with the beer and wine selection coming in a close second. Most of the back wall is a combination of bins for grains, nuts, fruits and candies. There's also a whole section of bulk spices (which are way better than the little jars). All of it is cheaper than you'd pay in a normal grocery store and higher quality since they just go through it faster than stuff designed to sit on a shelf in a bag for months at a time. Pretty much all the grains, nuts, and spices come from here for that reason. I don't know who manages the beer and wine selection here, but they do it well. The beer is always interesting and has some good local selections from pretty much everything Flying Dog does to whatever Dogfish Head has out and some more esoteric things like Off Color Brewing and a decent selection of Belgians. The only complaint is that it frequently doesn't rotate often enough for me to find something new in between visits Otherwise, the co-op is a small, boutique grocery store with a small, but very decent produce selection, an extensive beer and wine selection, some good (if expensive) cheese as well as a few core grocery items like cereal and frozen food. It also has a huge selection of the natural and homeopathic stuff you'd expect from a co-op. It's a fantastic place for me to be able to walk to in order to pick up a few key items without a full trip to the store in the car, but you can't really do your week's grocery shopping reasonably/. read more

Yes this store is a little pricey but they are very accommodating. And their produce is amazing

Very expensive, somewhat eclectic co-op that is struggling to maintain its identity and relevance to its surrounding community. Decent selection of unusual and/or locally-sourced products and produce, but the ambience is either pretentious and/or tired, and the novelty and uniqueness more often than not is overcome by the higher prices that simply can't be justified by convenience. read more

After shopping here for over 2 decades I had a terrible experience with who appears to be a new manager. I brought to his attention several items that scanned much higher at the register than was on the posted label. His response literally was "prices go up and it's whatever the register rings it up to be. You don't have to buy it". I then said to him that I thought this was unethical and potentially illegal that he is KNOWINGLY charging more at the register than the posted label, and he replied "no its not." This bothers me because a lot of older customers shop there and probably don't pay attention to the scam that he is getting away with. I will never give them my business again. read more

Pricey, but it's Bethesda! Friendly and helpful staff, great variety of products from health food, beer, and wine to soaps, lotions, fluoride free toothpaste, and vitamins. Fresh organic produce. Seasonal cakes and pies. I could go on and on with all the different items they offer. Worth the trip and the employees there are great! read more

Will have to preface this comment by saying that it's been about 23 years since I've been to Bethesda co-op. I use to go here all the time with my mom, dad, and siblings about 23 years ago. I vaguely remember that my mom even used to work there for a while - but she passed away from Cancer around then as well. Bethesda Co-Op was one of the DC area's first natural foods grocery stores, and it was always an exciting place to get nurturing, nourishing food - long before organic became trendy, and many years before Fresh Fields (later Whole Foods). It was wholesome, friendly, and different. I went here for the first time since I was a kid, and was pretty sad to see some of the product selection - Coke, Sprite, Diet Coke, Diet Sprite, and tons of brands that include GMO ingredients and highly processed foods. The store was packed and cramped - and would have been easier to navigate if they truly kept their product selection to natural and wholesome foods, and uncluttered from the junk. The staff wasn't friendly, and everyone seemed like they were in a bad mood. Through family deaths, moving, and a number of circumstances, I don't know what happened to Bethesda co-op - I'm not sure who manages the store and makes the decisions. But it's not the healthful, charming, friendly place it used to be. I don't foresee myself going back. read more

Such a great little spot. A bit TOO far away, but so worth it. Not a viable place for me to get produce due to the prices (unfortunately) but there is no better bulk section in town! I am a fan of bulk spices and you just can't find those anywhere....Bethesda Co-Op has just what the doctor ordered! I am listing the prices as moderate, because honestly all I care about is the bulk section. And those prices are great! read more

I had an horrible experience with Chris at the store in the evening of December 4th. I had bought expensive wines and the three bottles were put into a single bag along with my eggs and other items. The paper bag handles broke and my bottles had broken outside of the slinging doors on the floor. Chris told me it was my fault because I didn't put my hands under the bag and that I should have known and that I shouldn't expect anything from the store. After years of supporting this local business, I will make sure never to go back and have to deal with this type of horrible business attitude. read more

So I just stopped in for something caffeinated but I found so many things I wanted to snatch up! I first toured through the produce section - everything looked fresh and tasty (I believe most things are organic & local-ish too). They had purple bell peppers from PA - I've never even heard of those! Next was the bulk food section. Way more offerings than Whole Foods. Ended up getting several kinds of nuts (tasted super fresh) and some peanut butter-chocolate malt balls which are harder to find than a cab at closing time. I really wanted to buy some of their bread. They have lots of artisan breads as well as bins with bagels and croissants. The croissants were some of the best looking I've ever seen - no joke! They also have cheese, freezer aisle, etc., etc. Also scattered throughout the store are 6-packs and large individual bottles of microbrew and Belgian beer. The wine lives mostly up front. Lots of selection. Lots of good things. Only downside is that it is rather expensive. I guess there's always a catch... read more

Sells an interesting mix of practically every health food imaginable - large selection of nuts and wines, a pre-prepared foods section for a quick lunch, some nice pies. Good organic fresh fruits and vegetables....and there's always a cute table or two of interesting chocolates or finger puppets or beautiful sweaters as you walk in. read more

Bethesda Co-op - the entrance to the natural food market - Health Markets Near Me - Cabin John, Maryland

Back in the day, i.e. when the Bethesda Co-op was on Bethesda Ave., it was run by and for the wide range of people who shopped there. The variety of things that you could get there was better than anyplace else around, and the prices were better than in many supermarkets. Now the prices have been raised to a level only appropriate for their landed-gentry Bethesda customer, and except for the numerous and interesting beers and wines that they have, they offer nothing interesting to set themselves apart from any small market, and the service is no longer with a smile. Sad. read more

I had a horrible experience with a manager who lost his composure there last Saturday. It was the first time I visited this store with my boyfriend, a long time patron. We approached the store, wearing our face masks and rubber gloves, according to the present rules. As my boyfriend walked closer to the entrance, I looked at the herbs for a moment. Then I turned to follow my boyfriend. The employee at the door asked me then if I was trying to go in with my husband. I explained that he was not my husband, but that we belong together. The employee then said I had to stay outside because only one member per party was allowed to go in. I then said to him that I won't be able to tell my boyfriend now that I had to wait outside, since he already had just gone in. The employee was really courteous about it and then kindly went inside to let my boyfriend know that I had to stay outside. I remained outside and looked at plants and after a short while was told by the same employee that I could now go into the store. I was puzzled, but proceeded to go inside and selected groceries together with my boyfriend. At the register line, we were talking until a man from a register was yelling (!) at me to leave the store immediately. I was so perplexed, I asked why I had to leave. He shouted that only one per family can be in the store. I told him that I had been told by the employee at the entrance that I could enter the store. He told me loudly that he was the manager and that I had to leave. I was stunned by the rudeness of the man. I left the store and had to wait a moment for my boyfriend who was in the process of paying for the food. Never in my life have I been thrown out of a store and I absolutely have no problems following rules. This manager then comes out of the store (as my boyfriend and I were walking to the car) and shouts a not very particularly friendly apology and asks which employee it was who let me come inside. This, in my eyes made it even worse! Now I am supposed to rat out the only friendly employee??? I will never enter this store ever again an will tell this story to all people I know. Even the other people at the registers were shocked, my boyfriend told me in the car. read more

This is a small and expensive health-focused, "green" grocery store. Although the prices are shockingly high, there is a great relaxed vibe going on here. The bulk items really caught my eye, as they are unique and fresh. Belonging to this co-op would be the best way to make shopping here a good investment, otherwise I would visit only on rare occasions for specific healthy or eco-friendly items! read more

They definitely don't make them like this anymore. Is it pricey at first? Yes, but just join the co-op and you'll be in great hands. They definitely stock a great selection and carry local items as well. A place that's out of the way for me but I would definitely frequent if I lived in the area. I also like the fact that I'm always greeted with a smile here. read more

This small and cozy market features friendly staff, an interesting selection of products that appeal to a moneyed crowd, plentiful parking, and a lovely bulk foods section that exudes heathy vibes and lists mouthwatering flavors. While this Co-op isn't a good match for the Costco crowd, it definitely fills a niche for local goods, more intimate service, and old fashioned homeyness. My favorite part of the experience? The 3 local honey dispensers...with the sticky stuff going for $3.99-$6.99 a pound, this is a great deal delivered in an engaging manner. Throw in a great selection of local breads and baked goods, and you've got a recipe for a delicious shopping experience. read more

Its been a wonderful experience working at the co-op. The staff are kind and helpful. They have a growing wine and beer section, fabulous bulk foods and spice section for those times you only need a little bit and the best produce on the planet. Thank you for everything. It's been a pleasure working here and I wish you all the best. Shop locally!! Small businesses rock! :-) read more

I loved it and I felt welcomed and would definitely recommend. They have really good brownies and a big but selection.

I love the co-op, I grew up on their local, organic, fair trade, eco-friendly products. This was well before the whole green thing was in, and I was slightly embarrassed to be seen with non-brand name food. But now I proudly support them. Their produce can be little over priced, but it's mostly local and organic. It's all fresh and recently picked, you will have a hard time finding a lot of things out of their normal seasons, because the co-op only supplies the very best in quality, and some things, like corn in the winter, are not meant to be. The store is also a haven for people with limited diets, Vegans, Vegitarians, people who are allergic to wheat, or gluten have ample amounts to choose from. Plus most of their other selections are pure in the ingredients list, no random fillers, additives or preservatives so all of your shopping can be a breeze. You can feel good shopping there because they also support local artists and other business by selling their items in the front. There is no down side to this store, they even sell alcohol now. Every Tuesday they have (or had) and holistic masseuse in the store to give massages. Everyday the get in breads, bagels and croissants from the local artisan bread bakeries like marvelous market and firehook, these always sell out by 2 or 3. They sell anything else you need like green detergent, frozen peas, bulk flour. One of my favorite things is the honey bar, they have honey from three different types of flowers, and you can fill your own jar. All local bees and flowers. Be sure to check out the bulletin board for local info on events, job listings, yard sales, puppies, tutors people make up posters and leave their cards for people to take... what ever you need you can find it there. read more

They have wrapping paper but not tape. Welcome to the world of random items shopping. The people there are all very nice and helpful. It's just hard to figure out what they sell there. read more

I pretty much agree with the other reviewers although Mark K said it best. It's not the store it used to be, thanks to Whole Foods which swiped much of the co-op's market so now it is more of a store with a split personality trying to do several things: neighborhood convenience, health food, fresh food. It doesn't do any of these really well but it's good enough to survive. And that's impressive in this high-rent district. So I forgive all its shortcomings. read more

Sure it's close to my house, which is a huge bonus, but what sets this place apart from grocery stores and markets is you are treated like a human being. There are always employees around (the employee to customer ratio is amazing) willing to help you find an item or just flash a welcoming smile. No judgement here from the employees or other customers if your hair looks like you just walked through hurricane winds or if you have on old yoga pants and a stained shirt. The selection of vegetarian and gluten free items (both prepared and frozen) is the largest I've ever seen. Plus there are tons of surprising things in the store (i.e. Yoga books, bulk chocolates, organic body items, essential oils, and children's books). If Wholefoods had a cooler, older, worldly cousin it would be the co-op. A special thank you to the staff earlier today that were kind enough to personally call me when the BBQ tofu and cold asian noodles delivery arrived. Long story, but I have been craving the tofu and noodles during pregnancy and have on more then one occasion been bummed not to find either item in the prepared food aisle. I am sooooo happy at the moment. read more

Their prices are enough to make one stop and think. Despite a varying selection for different types of diets, the attitude of the staff is enough to completely negate the possibility of a decent co-op. read more

This place has a nice set up and range of products. However the prices for the quality of food is very expensive. The customer service, if issues do arise, is very poor especially when dealing with a manager with the name of Pauline. I will take my business elsewhere in future. read more

Great selection of food-wine- personal products and wholesome pet foods. Service is great- always someone to offer assistance and lines move quickly. read more

VERY VERY EXPENSIVE. save your money and go to MOM's in Rockville. It's cheaper than the Co-ops and Whole Foods

Unfortunately I live about a 15 minute drive from a Giant or Safeway but a 5 minute walk from the co-op. The reason I say this is prices, there are certain times I may want to go to the co-op- they have great (organic) produce and a wide selection of nuts and grains. But I come here for more when I only have one or two things I need, it's much easier than getting in the car for a 30 minute round trip ride. I recently purchased green cabbage- over a week ago and finished it off today, it was still good and fresh. However, the head of cabbage was over $6. My dad loves to get trail mix ingredients here, they have cashews (roasted and raw), almonds (seasoned as well), you know what I'm not gonna name them all pretty much think of a nut and they have it. They also have dried fruit (again wide selection but to name a few- dates, pineapple, mango). And one time I needed mung beans- they got em! Ice cream, frozen meals, frozen veggies and berries, soaps, supplements, prepared food, canned goods- this place has many things a traditional grocery store has, but not the name brands you may know. They carry a lot of organic food brands- this is a fun place to try new things- I needed tortillas and ended up with rice flour tortillas. The service is nice a few short conveyer belt lines and a bell to ring when no one is at the register (as a kid I didn't care if someone was at the register I was ringing that bell!) The lines don't get too long and it never moves too slow. This is a great gem in our community- just beware that the organic part makes the prices rise. read more

Pretty run of the mill co-op. Fairly limited selection, although the bulk section is decent. What really annoys me however, is that a supposed natural foods store that touts its green image doesn't bother to install a bike rack anywhere. I guess suburbanites get some sort of karma boost by driving their ginormous SUVs to a co-op? read more

I like the idea of neighborhood organic market. I don't like the idea of paying 25-30% price premium over Whole Foods. And I definitely don't like the idea of opening the package at home and 25% of the time receiving a stale or otherwise expired item, like today Tofu smelling worse than baby's used diaper, while expiration date still being 1 day away. Thanks, but, no, thanks. read more

Wonderful co-op for buying bulk items, unusual cereal, health cereals, and the like. Wonderful atmosphere. Not a replacement for a supermarket (they don't have everything), but they complement the main supermarket shopping. Staff is friendly and helpful and you are made to feel at home. They have wonder fresh bread (Firehook, etc.), mozarella, and wonderful grade B maple syrup (much more taste than grade A). Their fruit is not consistently good (they may want to improve this), but that is a minor thing. I strongly recommend you try it. read more

Great selection -- for the store size. Helpful staff. Very expensive. In my vocabulary, co-op (at least for members) means a cheaper source of goods. Unfortunately, when compared to *any* other organic store within 20 miles, they are the most expensive. Sometimes, nearly twice the cost. Just to finish on a better note, they do carry a decent selection of wine & beer. read more

I like the idea of a neighborhood grocery store but neither the selection nor the customer service warrant the Bethesda Coop's pricing. I had resigned myself to make the occasional small purchase here but after paying $5.49 for a quart of milk I doubt that I will return. 4 stars for location, 3 for selection, 2 for customer service and 1 for price. read more

Its the best store of its kind around. Its easy to be critical of them, but they have done what they have had to do to make it , and I think they have not really deviated from their mission too much. I am just glad they are in business. read more

what happened to the old co-op slogan "food for people not for profit"? I moved nearby last year and really wanted to make it my main grocery store. I agree with other reviews that some of their products are not strictly "health food" standard, however, they do carry ample of healthy and organic products and are pretty well equipped for a relatively small store. I also don't mind the general "blah atmosphere" and there are always one or two nice individuals who are consistent in being helpful. I like small stores, I like the idea of supporting local CO-OPS vs big chains and I like the location... My problem is with their prices!! I have no idea how do they come up with their pricing but they are so ridiculously high !! A product that may cost 5.79 at MOM & 6.99 at WF costs 9.99 at the CO-OP (and sometimes even more). Seriously, after a year of giving it a try I am now using it only if I need one or two items and don't feel like going to the other stores. Additionally, this is the first co-op that required me to re- join and re-pay membership every year!! I did not renew my membership as their 5% discount does not begin to cover the price discrepancy... I wish they could re-think their pricing strategy since I know I am not the only one who have given up on the place due to the outlandish cost! read more