Urban Bulk Emporium is the adorable indie love-child of Whole Foods and Bulk Barn. Located at the corner of Queen and Greenwood, in the space formerly held by Leslieville's The Film Buff, Urban Bulk is a great place for locally sourced and natural foods.

Its proximity to Oliffe Butcher Shop is an added bonus that helps to cut back on time spent deciding what's for dinner tonight.

Upon entering I was greeted by the friendly staff and throughout my time in the store was continually impressed by the knowledge of their products. Stories of locally sourced honey and a shared lament over the colour added to regular store-bought dried apricots was enough to impress.

The layout of the store is easily navigated and overall well organized. However, it does seem a little bare right now, which can only be excused by the fact that the store has only been open for three weeks. I'm sure they'll add to their products and decor in the coming weeks.

Urban Bulk Emporium carries a wide range of products. From bulk baking supplies, rice and quinoa and nuts, to organic soaps and shampoos. They also carry a number of pre-packaged gluten-free products, juices, and dressings.

Pricing was fairly reasonable, however, like any bulk store be mindful of your scoop sizes as things can easily add up.

For example, in my haste to fill up on mixed grain quinoa I racked up a tab of almost $8. Exercise caution before boldly filling up your bulk bags in order to stay on budget.

Writing by Hannah Jack. Photos by Hector Vasquez.