Historical December 1978 article. Health, remedy and nutrition claims are reproduced as archival statements and are not current medical recommendations. Original printed byline: Peggy Peters-Vaughan; verified existing author profile: Peggy Peters.
In the 70s a whole new life style was forced upon the American people. It started slowly with anti-litter slogans and a crying Indian on TV. Soon its impact was felt everywhere when the 55 mph speed limit was imposed. Next we found ourselves in an “energy crunch” and everyone was bundling up and turning down their thermostats. Plants became fashionable as outdoors was brought indoors. Magazines carried stories of executives and their families who “chucked” the establishment and took to the mountains to live off the land. People began jogging and became aware of their bodies and what they were putting into them. Back to nature became the new battle cry.
Nitty Gritty Natural Foods Store at 6394 Delmar reflects this reborn pioneer spirit. From the front door to the neatly curtained-off back room, it is a reminder of times past. There are no shining chrome counters, no aisle upon aisle filled with shopping carts and no “10¢ off with coupon and $5.00 purchase” signs. Instead the shopper will find barrels, wooden shelves, and jars filled with an abundance of bulk products and a delightful, relaxing way to shop. There is even an antique 1898 scale (still accurate) on which purchases are weighed.
According to Glen Willis, the proprietor, the purpose of his shop is “to give people an ample assortment of good, wholesome food at reasonable prices.” Cost is held down through the serve-yourself concept. Each shopper weighs and bags his or her own selection thus allowing a large range of purchases without fancy packaging.
Nitty Gritty has been in business in the Delmar Loop for four years having recently moved across the street to its current larger location. The shop carries the widest and most varied selection of teas and herbs this writer has seen under one roof. Tea can be purchased in any amount from 10 ounces to 10 pounds. Some of the most popular teas are Cinnamon spice, red zinger, jasmine, and Earl Grey.
A wise choice of herbs and botanicals with many unusual names and even more unusual uses is available. Fo-Ti, for instance, is credited with the ability to lengthen the life span. Golden Seal is an herb which is supposed to possess the same qualities as penicillan. There is an herb which claims to remedy almost every ailment known to man. Our forefathers and the Indians used these same remedies. Glen and his sales staff are restricted by law from telling which herbs or botanical cures which ailment but a fine array of books are available to help the shopper.
Next to the herbs and teas stand jars of spices where the everyday cook can find pepper, cinnamon, and paprika while the gourmet chef can just as easily locate Gumbo filet, fennel seeds and dried mushrooms. Prices are very reasonable, almost surprisingly so. This writer purchased chili powder, red cayenne pepper and onion powder and was pleased with the quality and price.
Against one wall are wooden racks which hold containers of rice (unprocessed, of course), whole wheat flour, beans, split peas and an assortment of pastas. Those who enjoy cooking Italiano may be interested in knowing that Nitty Gritty carriesspinach flats and spinach noodles. Dried fruits (apples, raisins, apricots), sea salt, and unsweetened coconut are also stored in this area.
The store carries a complete line of natural beauty aids including all natural toothpaste. There are soaps, cleansers, lotions, and creams which are all biodegradable for the ecology-minded individual. Much has been written in beauty magazines in recent months about the amazing capabilities of Henna to highlight and enrich the hair. This shop not only has Henna in different shades, but has booklets and a qualified sales person to aid the shopper in selection and application.
In the center of the store stands a rack filled with barrels full of nut and fruit mixtures, granola and snack mixes. These would provide a family with a different and healthful treat for the holidays. The California mix, which contains coconut, nuts, raisins, looked and smelled delicious. The freshly mixed granola should not be overlooked. It is definitely superior to the granola sold in supermarkets.
Future plans for Nitty Gritty include the opening of a lunch bar. Sandwiches, teas, juices and pastries will make up the menu. All will be made in the shop using Nitty Gritty products.
The aroma inside this store is fantastic. Combined with the creative use of plants, natural woods, barrels, crates and even an old plow, the atmosphere becomes one of hominess and contentment. The rustic country charm gives the shopper the feel of visiting a general store of days gone by. Perhaps the spirit of the adventuresome pioneer will be rekindled and another 20th century being will be brought “back to nature.”
Original photograph caption
Original food illustration accompanying Nuts to Groats at Nitty Gritty. The Paper, December 1978, page 7. Artist not credited.
Originally published in The Paper, December 1978.
Read this article in the original newspaper issue.
Original source: SD_Times1978_12.pdf, printed page(s) 7; PDF page(s) 7.
