Maksym KuzaievEating healthy is tough sometimes—at least, it is for me. Between trying to remember the difference between “organic” and “natural” and pretending I actually like kale chips, it’s a bit of a struggle.
But I’ve found a few awesome health food stores in Ottawa that, surprisingly, make it way easier for me to stay on track. They’ve helped me stock up on good-for-you snacks, vitamins, and all those things that make you feel like you’ve got your life together.
If you’re looking to eat cleaner, feel better, or just explore some new healthy finds, I’ve listed here Ottawa’s best health food stores that I always find myself going back to. Check them out!
How much does shopping at health food stores cost in Ottawa?
In Ottawa, shopping at health food stores typically costs a bit more than your average grocery run—around 10% to 25% higher on most items. Most shoppers spend about $100 to $150 per week on healthy staples and supplements. Still, prices can vary depending on whether you’re buying specialty products or organic goods.
1. Healthy Planet – Trainyards
Address: 590 Industrial Ave., Unit 3
Phone: +1 613 730 2020
Business Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 9 AM to 9 PM
- Saturday – 9 AM to 7 PM
- Sunday – 10 AM 6 PM
Healthy Planet at Trainyards is one of those stores that makes you feel like you’re actually doing something good for yourself the moment you walk in.
The place is packed with everything from vitamins, supplements, and organic foods. They also have eco-friendly cleaning products and natural cosmetics—and yes, they even have stuff for kids and pets.
I like that they don’t just sell; they also educate. Thanks to their free classes and seminars, which help people understand their nutrition better.
Their website is just as organized as the store—everything’s sorted neatly by category, so finding what I need did not turn into a scavenger hunt. I should also add that the in-store staff are generally friendly and ready to help.
A few customers we spoke with mentioned their nutritionist could be a little more engaging, though.
Exceptional knowledge and genuine enthusiasm
“I visited Healthy Planet Trainyards and ended up making a purchase just because of Natalia’s amazing representation! She’s incredibly knowledgeable, friendly, and genuinely passionate about what she does. Her energy made the whole experience so positive. Her team is lucky to have her—thank you, Natalia!”
Olena Gulyansky, Google Review
Efficient service with impressive variety
“I had such a delightful experience during my visit! The staff was not only incredibly knowledgeable but also exuded kindness at every turn. They helped all customers with such efficiency in finding items, making my shopping trip a joyful breeze. I’d happily rate their performance a fantastic 9.1 out of 10! Plus, the selection was vast and reasonably priced. Remember, the body is a temple, and this store certainly makes it easy to nourish it!”
Dustin Arial, Google Review
2. Natural Food Pantry
Address: 1960 Scott St.
Phone: +1 613 728 1255
Business Hours:
- Monday to Wednesday – 10 AM to 7 PM
- Thursday and Friday – 10 AM to 8 PM
- Saturday – 10 AM to 6 PM
- Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM
Natural Food Pantry has three other spots in Ottawa, so if you’re ordering stuff online, you can easily choose a pickup spot. Furthermore, they’ve got almost everything: from supplements, vitamins, and sports nutrition essentials to specialty foods (think gluten-free or organic stuff).
They even have natural beauty products, eco-friendly cleaning items, baby and kids’ stuff, and even pet care—definitely not just your average health store.
Oh, and if you’re all about events, they host workshops, which are actually really great for picking up healthy recipes and tips for better nutrition (so yes, I’d say they care about their customers beyond selling products).
On top of that, they’re perfect for small businesses looking to stock healthier options since they offer discounts on bulk purchases.
And the “Price Adjustment Guarantee”? Total win! Just show the receipt within 30 days if the price drops, and they’ll refund the difference.
Now, on the flip side, their parking could be better; it’s small and shared with another business.
Compassionate and genuine customer care
“I had the most wonderful interaction today that I’ve ever had since shopping at Natural Food Pantry. Rita Hakim was just so compassionate, understanding and genuine. She listened and shared and was very helpful. We need more people like her in customer service! Thank you Rita!”
Rachel Wagner, Google Review
Friendly and knowledgeable assistance
“I had a positive experience at this location yesterday with one of the employees, her name is Rita. She was very welcoming as well as friendly, and was able to help me find the products I needed due to her product knowledge and was able to explain it all to me. She provided excellent customer service, and I will be returning to this location in the near future.”
Kaiya Merriman, Google Review
3. Nature’s Signature “Health Food Store” Ottawa
Address: 4510 Innes Rd #1A
Phone: +1 613 834 6789
Business Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 9 AM to 8 PM
- Saturday – 9 AM to 6 PM
- Sunday – 10 AM to 6 PM
Nature’s Signature is conveniently located right beside the pharmacy, so it’s easy to pop in for a quick supplement restock or a browse through their shelves of natural vitamins, minerals, and protein options.
What sets them apart is their strong focus on clean products—everything here is free from artificial colours and flavours, and there’s a solid range of gluten-free, vegan, and organic choices.
They’ve actually won the Brock Elliot Award for Retailing Excellence, which says a lot about their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.
Membership isn’t required to shop here, but signing up definitely pays off—members get discounts, plus the ability to special-order products not usually in stock.
Also, their website has monthly specials and promotions, and for online orders, free shipping kicks in above about CAD 59.99.
Now, I noticed that while most staff are helpful and well-informed, customer service can be hit or miss depending on who’s on shift.
Calm and friendly environment
“I stumbled on this store while being in distress, the staff showed empathy and professionalism and directed me to supplements that worked rapidly and addressed the root not just covered the symptoms. Sonya is very knowledgeable of holistic remedies and also able to communicate it at my level, and is also very patient with an old burn-out like myself. Even if its in a busy grocery store their department is an oasis, calm clean friendly.”
Pierre Dallaire, Google Review
Expert manager with in-depth knowledge
“The manager of this store knows her stuff! We reviewed my specific needs and she was able to provide not only options but also recommendations based on brands third party testing. I would highly recommend having a chat with her if you have any questions. Thank you for your help!”
Rebecca Nalley, Google Review
4. Herb & Spice Food & Wellness Shop
Address: 375 Bank St.
Phone: +1 613 232 4087
Business Hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 8 AM to 9 PM
With over forty years of experience, Herb & Spice Food has carved out a solid reputation in Ottawa’s Centretown for curating a unique selection of organic produce, specialty groceries, and bulk food options.
The variety here is insane, with everything from rice and flour to herbs, spices, candies, and even chocolates! What’s more, there’s also a dedicated Wellness shop filled with natural supplements like vitamins, tinctures, probiotics, and more—talk about a one-stop shop!
Their bulk and low-waste setup is particularly impressive—not only do you save money by buying just what you need, but you cut down on waste too!
I also noted that discounts are a huge bonus here; seniors snag a 10% discount three days a week, while students get the same perk every Sunday.
However, several people mentioned that the staff aren’t always helpful when you’re looking for something specific. It isn’t a dealbreaker, but it does stick out, especially if you’re navigating the store for the first time.
Trusted local family-run business
“Long time Ottawa institution of healthy organic foods and supplements. Centrally Located in the heart of the city, owners and staff there alike are helpful for any questions you have or for finding rare and difficult-to-find quality items often not found elsewhere. Father and son family run business.”
Dave MacDonald, Google Review
Exceptional dried herbs selection and reliable supplements
“Come here for years, the dried natural herb section is incredible and they have supplements in the back. Very good health food store.”
Matt Pen, Google Review
5. Manotick Natural Market & Wellness Hub
Address: 1136 Tighe St, Manotick
Phone: +1 613 804 2378
Business Hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday – 10 AM to 4 PM
- Friday and Saturday – 10 AM to 3 PM
Manotick Natural Market & Wellness Hub has built up quite a reputation for offering a great selection of vitamins, homeopathic remedies, sports supplements, premium teas, and diabetic-friendly, gluten-free, and dairy-free products.
They even carry natural body care essentials—a thoughtful addition for anyone mindful about what they put on their skin.
The staff is super approachable, and one of their standout features is the complimentary nutrition and health advice they offer at the store. Whether you’re new to healthy living or have specific dietary needs, this is a huge plus.
One product a lot of regulars (myself included) rave about is their Fermented Turmeric Blend, which is made locally in Canada. I personally loved this since it helped with my digestion, and I’ve heard it helps with stress, anxiety, and even inflammation.
On the downside, I noticed a few complaints regarding hiccups with deliveries. Nonetheless, the team is quick to resolve issues, which speaks volumes about their dedication to customer satisfaction.
Geniune care and outstanding service
“I can not say enough good words about this place. First of all Darpan is a tremendous person who cares about people and does everything possible to help you optimize your health. The products and service here are topnotch. I feel very fortunate to have discovered Manotick Natural Market.”
Robert Brown, Google Review
Impressive variety and quality of products
“I purchased the Golden Root to help with pain and inflammation from bursitis in my shoulder and in just a week of starting, the improvement is amazing. My physiotherapist said I will be able to be discharged sooner than planned. Highly recommend the product and the market. So many great products and services.the infrared sauna is also fantastic!”
Karen Parr, Google Review
