Andy’s Local Market in San Rafael

One of my favorite Twitter friends (who is now a real friend), Peggy Butler has taught me so much about the importance of local, healthy food. Peggy is the one who introduced me to Tara Firma Farms and is now introducing me to Andy’s Local Market. Peggy is also a social networking expert who teaches Twitter and Facebook to entrepreneurs. She has written a great review about Andy’s Local Market. Thanks Peggy!

When Sally asked me if I’d like to write a guest blog post about one of my favorite local businesses, Andy’s Local Market, my neighborhood grocery store immediately came to mind because Andy’s is a hidden gem. Andy’s Local Market is located in the Loch Lomond neighborhood in San Rafael, along Pt San Pedro Rd, on the way to Peacock Gap and China Camp.

First, before I tell you all about the store, let me tell you the most important thing:  Andy’s Market hosts a Wine Tasting the 1^st Friday of every month from 5-7 PM. The next one is tomorrow…November 6^th. Will I see you there?  The store has a nice café area where you can sip your wine (only $3 per glass) and even have dinner, as their deli has great food and pizza!

Andy Bachich, owner, is a Marin native who believes in building community and giving back to that community. He goes out of his way to carry local products, organic products, and specialty food items. In fact, whenever I need a hostess gift for a dinner party, I go to Andy’s to pick up a unique gourmet product. So, Andy’s Market isn’t just a store to run to when you’re out of milk…it’s a full service grocery store with a great deli, large produce section (including organic), meat & fish market, great wine selection, and everything in between.  Their prices are competitive, too. In fact, they currently have the best price around on Wild Alaskan Salmon @ $14.99/lb. It’s worth a trip just for that!

Andy’s also has nightly dinner specials, Friday night Eat-In specials, pizza for take-out or to eat in, weekly organic produce specials, and as I mentioned, Wine Tasting on the 1^st Friday of the month. They are also taking orders for Thanksgiving dinners.

Andy’s Local Market is located at 688 Point San Pedro Rd. in San Rafael, just 1 mile past Montecito Shopping Center. Turn when you see the Loch Lomond Marina. Plenty of parking. Please make a special trip to check out Andy’s, even if you don’t live in the neighborhood. Hope to see you at the wine tasting!