What’s Happening in Retail: Nature’s Temptations

Some 20 years ago Jeff Konchalski opened Nature’s Temptations on Prospect Street next to Dmitri’s.  In 2008 he quadrupled his space by moving to 32 Prospect, in quarters formerly occupied by the Italian-American Mutual Aid Society and that offers lots of parking. 

His vision−to help people attain a healthy nutritional lifestyle−may give the impression that he runs a health food store dominated by vitamins and supplements.  That’s just part of the story.  Nature’s Temptations’ wide range of groceries includes 100% grass fed meat and fresh fish ordered every Tuesday through Saturday (none is held a second day), including wild caught shrimp from Stonington, Conn.  The large display of produce is organic and as local as possible.

He offers three hot soups daily, made from scratch under Chef Liz Gagnon, head of the store’s kitchen.  “We make our own vegetable and chicken stock from fresh vegetables and organic chickens−no bullion cubes,” said Mr. Konchalski. “Our deli counter features sandwiches, fresh salads, hot entrees and sides prepared 100% by our kitchen.”  The Juice Bar serves organic smoothies made from frozen organic fruits−not from powders or mixes.  

The store’s monthly flyer has over 100 sale items, and specials are posted daily on Facebook. As another service to customers, Dr. Amy Johnson, a naturopathic physician, is at the store on Fridays and Saturdays to answer questions at no charge.