As a resident, a mom, and a professional living in Bergen County for the past twenty-two years, I’ve tried my fair share of places for dining and shopping throughout the county. Plus, as a professional organizer, I spend a lot of time on the go travelling to client’s houses, shopping for storage products, and fueling my body in between!
In doing so, I’ve narrowed down my favorites places to go around town. Below is a list of my favorite spots around for both personal and professional use.
1. Whole Foods
Anyone that knows me well, knows that I try to eat healthy whenever possible. If I’m looking to shop for something organic or a specialty health food, Whole Foods is my first choice.
2. Trader Joe’s
While Whole Foods is my place to go for most organic health foods, Trader Joe’s also has a nice organic selection. I love the frozen section (their frozen riced cauliflower is a staple in my freezer) and you can’t beat the prices. From healthy choices to a nice treat, Trader Joe’s always has you covered!
3. Stew Leonard’s
It’s said to be the Disney grocery stores, and with the fun animated flying chickens to the singing parrot and talking cow, Stew Leonard’s is an entertaining experience! From their produce and delicious selection of precooked and ready-made made meals, we can all understand why Stew’s is an exciting place to shop. If you are hosting a family celebration and want to impress with quality (yet convenient) food, it’s definitely worth a visit.
I always love to have a nice manicure, but with so many nail salons to choose from it’s hard to know where to start! My personal favorite is Karma Organize Nail Salon in Ridgewood. This is the real deal manicure and pedicure. I especially love the fresh rose petals they put in the pedicure basin. Bonus – I love the salon’s focus on using natural, eco-friendly products!
I love this store! This local boutique has such a great range of trendy styles, from clothing to shoes and accessories. I also love that I can support wonderful, hard-working local business-owners and still find affordable, great products!
6. Starbucks - Many!
Okay, okay, you don’t need me to tell you what Starbucks is, and why it’s so good! As someone always on the go, I love getting an iced coffee, not only for the taste but for a quick boost of caffeine.
7. Panera Bread
Another restaurant that we all know and love – you just can’t go wrong with Panera! I enjoy the range of healthier options they have, and if you know me, you know that I have the Green Goddess Cobb salad almost daily!
8. Garden State Plaza
In the day and age of online shopping, I’m still someone who enjoys being able to see and feel certain items in person before purchasing. Considering Bergen County is home to five major shopping malls, we certainly have no shortage of in-person shopping opportunities! My personal favorite shopping mall is the Garden State Plaza in Paramus. I appreciate that GSP has such a vast range of stores, from high-end, luxury retailers to department stores and kiosks where you can score a great bargain.
9. The Container Store
This list wouldn’t be complete without mentioning The Container Store in New Jersey. As a professional organizer, this store has become my home away from home! I’ve purchased products o’ plenty here for clients.
10. HomeSense
HomeSense is another go-to shop that I frequent for purchasing products for clients with a lower price point. While their product line is not as consistent as The Container Store, I love that I can find unique home and organizing products, usually for a great deal.
Now that you know some of my go-to places in Bergen County, I want to hear from you! What are some of your favorite places? Did I miss any must-sees on this list?