Rainbow Foods

I will admit my bias first off, because I used to work here!!!
Rainbow is Disney Land for anyone who’s interested in taking care of themselves and those that love them. The store has grown exponentially since my time, which brings me joy to no end, and I wish the whole team much success to keep on trucking into the future, blessing Ottawa with fantastic foods and goodies and keeping everyone happy and healthy.
I worked there nearly fifteen years ago, it had already been going strong for years before that, but back then it was half the size of what it is today. Some of the same staff continue to work there which is a testament to the environment being a loving one.
I couldn’t imagine a store catering more to its customer base than Rainbow does — the service is absolutely second to none, the product range is one to get lost in, and everyone and their dog (literally) will come in and leave happy. The prices are fair, the ambiance welcoming and on my last visit I got to try so many new products I’d never dreamt possible — especially for someone gluten– and dairy-​free — this is my personal heaven.
I’m in Ottawa about twice a year, I live in Germany now but I make a visit without fail each time I come home, and I couldn’t be a happier customer, Rainbow alumni, or participant health food nut. Rainbow inspired my life and continues to — and I will shop there until I die or it does, whichever comes first.
Thank you Rainbow for being in my life! And to everyone who hasn’t been there, take some time to check it out, you’ll be glad you did :)

They have a great set up. I was very impressed the first time I came. The staff is very knowledgeable and approachable and the have so much to choose from plus fresh organic produce. Awesome store.

I’ve been to more than one health food store that hasn’t had what I was looking for and they’ve always followed it up with «but check Rainbow Foods — they probably have it!» And the truth is, the almost certainly do. Groceries, supplements and herbal remedies, all natural bath and beauty products, green household products and cooking utensils and oh so much more, this place is a Mecca for those looking to lead a healthy and Eco-​conscious lifestyle.
They have an amazing amount of gluten-​free products here, and I love that they label every single product in the store that is gluten free — so helpful! In addition to their grocery aisles they also have an awesome bull herb station, a place where you can grind your own nut butter and a stellar bull flour and grain section.
I mostly come here for hard to find supplements and almost always leave with something else. The selection here is amazing. The only reason I hesitate to give them a five star rating is the price point. I find it really high for some things, which is why I can’t shop here all the time.
One other note — the staff is really great. Knowledgable, friendly and consistent they are fantastic. They also offer a customer loyalty program if you shop their often.
Do yourself a favour, and if you’re on the path to healthy living take a peek at rainbow foods!

I come to Rainbow often enough to buy things like organic greens, natural shampoos, English cheese, and some of the many other things they carry. Their staff are friendly and knowledgeable, and if they cannot answer your question they will refer you to someone who will. I like the Dorset drum cheese they sell, the John Masters shampoo, and also the organic greens. Wherever possible things are organic. There are good selections of things like local produce, supplements, spices, and teas. There is also a small pet food section. Things are a little on the pricey side but it’s within the realm of acceptability so it’s fine. The owner is vegetarian i believe so there are no meat products here and you should bring a reusable bag for your shopping.

Due to my gluten intolerance, I have been to this store on multiple occasions for my groceries and to find items that I could not find elsewhere. The service is excellent and I am very pleased with the variety of products. The desert section is always my favourite! Not too many years ago, I found it very difficult to find good quality gluten free products. I am very happy to know that there is a place nearby that I can go to that will have what I am looking for!

Selection is good, but if you buy, for example, flours in bulk, then choose online retailers as they sell them for much cheaper. You can also buy exactly the same supplements from online retailers at a MUCH lower cost.
Lots of organic flours (almond flour, coconut), sugars can be bought at Bulk Barn for a lot less. Check the Rainbow flyer frequently to buy what is on sale.
Some items (frozen gluten-​free bread, nut butters, sea salt, etc.) can be bought at Loblaws for $ 1 – 2 cheaper.

You know when you find a great healthy recipe, but it calls for that one ingredient that is not sold at your local grocery store? We’ll that’s when I head to my local Rainbow foods. They carry every kind of spice you can think of, like Chinese five spice, which I had the hardest time finding anywhere.
Rainbow foods also carries local products, so that I, as well as many others have a chance to support our local companies. The price can vary from moderate to pricey, but I believe you «pay for what you get.»
Greek yogurt is also cheaper here than most grocery stores. ;)
Whatever it is that you need for a new recipe that you are trying, Rainbow foods usually has it.