Not your Grandmother's grocery store

The entrance to the New Pioneer Co-op is tiny and unassuming, a nondescript portal on a nondescript brick building. However, passing through the entrance is a feeling that I imagine is akin to what one feels upon discovering an ancient Egyptian tomb laden with opulent treasures, air thick with intriguing aromas, and staffed by cashiers with full-sleeve tattoos ('k... maybe not that last one).

"The co-op" as it is affectionately known by most who shop there (and justifiably so, as it is the only one in the area) has locations at 22 S. Van Buren St in Iowa City across from the city offices, and 1101 2nd St in Coralville (though i have never been to the newer Coralville location, it looks somewhat more upscale from the road).

I lived in Iowa City for a full year before I knew the co-op existed, and even then it was only brought to my attention by my vegan older sister, a former resident of Iowa City who has, shall we say, an eclectic palate (my dad routinely refers to her diet as "mulch"). True, the co-op does indeed cater to the vegan, vegetarian and organic-only crowd much more so than any other grocer in the area, but they also boast an impressive meat counter with fresh fish of all varieties, as well as hard to find meats such as venison, lamb, and ground buffalo, the latter of which makes a delicious burger. An entire aisle is devoted to their copious beer and wine selection, each carefully selected by their specialist, Tom.

The catch to shopping at the co-op, and the one thing which probably makes many students avoid it, is that you must either buy a membership, or pay an additional fee every time you shop there. However, the membership is a one-time payment of sixty dollars (no annual renewal required unlike Costco or Sam's Club) and, much like stock, you get this fee fully refunded upon resigning. Critics of shopping at cooperatives like this one cite excessive cost, but the co-op allows its members to volunteer and receive a discount on its products. For a mere nine hours a month, a member gets 30% off the first $200 worth of groceries that month, a savings of $60, almost the equivalent of being paid minimum wage. For those willing to put in a little work for the extra quality, your taste buds will thank you.