A produce oasis for shoppers hoping to spare themselves from Whole Foods' prices, Stanley's Fruits & Vegetables offers cost-per-pound prices that even a carnivore could love.

It's perfect for supplemental grocerys run between major supermarket trips; just don't count on your purchase lasting longer than a few days. Special discounts randomly come and go but consistently outdo Dominick's and Jewel: 3 for $1 avocadoes, Natural Ovens bread for less than $2 and bananas for 29-49 cents/pound. You'll easily walk away with a basketful of goodies for less than $15.

The shop is like a climate-controlled farmer's market, primarily drawing its robust organics and quality conventional produce from local growers. Breads fresh from the South Side, pastas from Italy and tins of wholesale snack foods (like yogurt-covered pretzels and licorice bites) fill a corner of the store. High-end yogurt beverages, flavored tofu, pomegranate juice and pricey pints of Ben & Jerry's fill the freezer and refrigerated shelves in back. Weather permitting, say hi to the employee stationed at the front entrance showing off seasonal specials like cantaloupe, pineapple or pumpkins.

Centerstage Reviewer: Justin Sondak