Grassroots’ Vegetarian Jerky
Vegans can enjoy it all these days—well, practically everything. Corn dogs, imitation cheeses, and now, something we thought could never be made healthy—jerky. Natural foods emporium Grassroots stocks Primal Strips vegan jerky, which is not only meatless, but all natural and high in protein. In flavors like Thai Peanut and Teriyaki, the vegetable-based jerky is the perfect snack for vegetarians and carnivores alike. $1.35.
2007 Park St., Riverside, 384-4474; 1915 East West Pkwy., Fleming Island, 541-0009
[ www.thegrassrootsmarket.com ]

Gourmet Cheeses at Matthew's Market
eats in the River City, and his recently refurbished San Marco-area market makes it easy for at-home chefs to cop his style. With a wide selection of hard-to-find ingredients like eucalyptus honey and truffle juice and ready-to-heat meals featuring scallops and steak, Matthew's Market is a gourmand's dream. Medure's careful selection of foodie favorites extends into the cheese section, which features interesting picks like Rogue Chocolate Stout and St. Agur Blue. Cheese offerings vary by texture, milk and origin and the knowledgeable staff can help with all your queries. The market also serves lunch, takes special orders and hosts wine tastings and the occasional cooking class.
2103 San Marco Blvd., San Marco, 398-6676
[ www.matthewsmarketandcatering.com ]

Riverside Liquors’ Bourbon Selection
Though they are repeatedly voted the best for both their wine and spirits, we are partial to Riverside Liquors’ ample selection of bourbons. The 5 Points-based liquor store features more than 30 types of the American Whiskey, including Pappy Van Winkle Family Reserve and George T. Stagg.
1035 Park St., Riverside, 356-4517

Gourmet To-Go from Bottega di Bella Sera
For those who can barely boil water, let alone create a gourmet feast, Bottega di Bella Sera is an answer to a prayer. Specializing in prepared dinners like chicken tetrazzini and beef burgundy (the menu changes daily), the gourmet retail store also carries a nice selection of wines and locally grown vegetables. Prices vary, but most meals range from just under $10 to just over $20, and are hearty enough for entire families.
919 King St., Riverside, 387-8483
[ www.bottegadibellasera.blogspot.com ]

Organic Beer and Wine at Native Sun
Native Sun is known around town as the go-to spot for all things organic, from bath products to pet food, and they have recently extended their selection to include organic beers and wines. That makes it one of the few local places to sell sulfite-free wines (for those prone to headaches) and the delicious American pale wheat ale, Oberon. The Baymeadows location even has a "Healthy Happy Hour," which falls on the third Thursday of each month.
1000 San Jose Blvd., Mandarin, 260-6950 • 11030 Baymeadows Rd., Baymeadows, 260-6950
[ nativesunjax.com ]

The Grotto’s Wine Selection
San Marco's The Grotto arguably has the best wine selection in town, with more than 70 wines by the glass and 300 bottles for sale. Wine aficionados can choose their by-the-glass pick in either a 3- or 6-ounce portion, or can buy a half or whole bottle to share. White, red or sparkling wine can be paired with one of the wine bar's delicious tapas, for inside or al fresco dining, or can be purchased by the bottle (or case) to bring home.
2012 San Marco Blvd., San Marco, 398-0726
[ grottowine.com ]