Parts are so messy

I find the down escalator at the new Whole Foods on 96th and Columbus so very entertaining. That's because on the way down to finding your produce and seafood, you can also find whole babies. I know I just hate cooking with parts. Good to know they sell the whole thing. Much more sustainable and you get more for your money. But are they local?

I love this new store. It's about the same distance from me as the Columbus Circle one but much more open, less crowded, and more stuff for the residential types. The Columbus Circle store is more prepared foods and stuff for tourists looking to picnic in Central Park. In the far north UWS store, there is tons of room to move about and not feel elbowed or rushed - how very un-NYC. I know folks who love the aisles that only supermodels can fit through but it is sooooo not fun when in a standoff with the Jewish yentas in Fairway or Zabar's - they have nasty, sharp elbows and aren't afraid to use them. Up on 96th I'm in heaven. The old ladies also seem to not graze in this more expensive pasture so I get to visually stalk all the cute hipster guys as they search for their vegan fare. Oh how I love the vegan body, just don't ask me to give up bacon.

The best part of Whole Foods is the local stuff. I'm addicted to Siggi's yogurt made right here in NYS. It is the best stuff ever. They call it Icelandic yogurt. Guessing that refers to the very creamy, thick nature of the white goodness that comes in a recyclable plastic cup, foil lid, and removable paper label. Packaging is smart and sustainable but it's the ginger orange and plain flavors I crave - no added sugars and the milk/calcium content of three typical yogurts packed into this dreamy delight. They also sell Thistle milk. I'm such a dairy whore.