The Best Bulk & Zero-Waste Grocery Stores in Chicago
For Chicago home cooks who love trying new recipes, experimenting with ingredients, and cooking with intention, bulk shopping can be a game changer. It saves money, reduces packaging waste, and gives you the freedom to buy just the amount you need—whether that’s a single scoop of smoked paprika or a jarful of heirloom beans.
Luckily, Chicago has a growing number of grocery stores and markets where you can shop in bulk or zero-waste, making it easier than ever to stock your pantry sustainably. This guide highlights the city’s best spots for refillable dry goods, spices, oils, and low-waste essentials.
Why Shop Bulk or Zero-Waste?
- Reduce packaging waste. You’ll eliminate single-use plastics and containers from your pantry.
- Buy only what you need. No more half-used bags of lentils or expired spices.
- Save money. Bulk goods often cost less per ounce than pre-packaged items.
- Try new things. Test a new spice or grain without committing to a full container.
Bulk and Zero-Waste Grocery Stores in Chicago
Dill Pickle Food Co-op
2746 N Milwaukee Ave, Logan Square
This community-owned grocery co-op offers a wide selection of organic and local bulk foods, including grains, beans, spices, nuts, dried fruits, and teas. They encourage you to bring your own containers, and the staff is always happy to help weigh and label them properly.
What to Buy: Quinoa, lentils, bulk spices, dried fruit, coffee beans
Bulk Market Chicago
1101 N California Ave, Humboldt Park
Chicago’s first fully zero-waste grocery store, Bulk Market is dedicated to package-free living. Everything here is sold by weight—pantry staples, oils, vinegars, soaps, and even snacks. Bring your own jars and bags, or borrow from their container library.
What to Buy: Local honey, olive oil, vinegar, pasta, oats, dish soap
River Valley Farmers Table
1820 W Wilson Ave, Ravenswood
Part grocery store, part farm stand, River Valley specializes in locally grown mushrooms and artisan pantry items. Their bulk section includes grains, legumes, coffee, and other cooking essentials in refillable containers.
What to Buy: Dried mushrooms, whole beans, specialty pasta, rice
Sugar Beet Food Co-op
812 Madison St, Oak Park (Worth the trip!)
Located just outside the city, Sugar Beet is a vibrant, community-owned grocer with an excellent bulk department. They offer everything from organic flours and grains to bulk granola and snack mixes.
What to Buy: Trail mix, flours, chia seeds, brown rice, tamari almonds
Chicago Market (Coming Soon)
Uptown (under development)
Chicago Market will be a large-scale food co-op focused on local, sustainable foods, with plans for an extensive bulk section and zero-waste packaging. Sign up for updates to stay in the loop.
What Groceries Can You Buy in Bulk?
While every store is a little different, most bulk sections offer:
Grains (rice, oats, couscous, quinoa)
Dried beans and legumes
Flours, sugars, baking ingredients
Nuts, seeds, and dried fruits
Spices and herbs
Teas and coffee
Oils, vinegars, and syrups (at some zero-waste stores)
Tips for Buying Groceries in Bulk
Bring containers from home. Glass jars, Tupperware, cloth produce bags, or silicone pouches all work great.
Weigh your containers first. Most stores have a scale to mark the “tare” weight so you only pay for the contents.
Label everything. Use masking tape or a wax pencil to note the product and PLU code.
Start small. Try just a few items to get a feel for the process.
Grocery Shopping Sustainably in Chicago
Shopping in bulk is a small habit with big impact. Whether you’re refilling your favorite jasmine rice or testing a new chili powder, these Chicago markets offer the resources and the quality you need to cook deliciously and sustainably.
Want more tips on shopping smart and local? Explore our guides to: