Jennifer McKinley-Rakov conceived Kingston Natural Foods Market as a complement to the local buying club she started a couple of years ago, offering local baked goods, specialty ice cream and other diary products. However, she also sells a respectable selection of produce. Right now the store is stocking red leaf lettuce, kale, spring onions, apples, pears, avocados, cabbage, zucchini, arugula, and pea shoots. The grand opening on June 5 from noon to 6 pm will feature a cooking demo. Local farmers are also invited, to help educate people about why their produce is of higher quality than what you’d buy in the supermarket.
McKinley-Rakov said the Rondout community has been very supportive, donating equipment and helping with payment plans. The business will be staffed by family members, including her mom and husband, Paul Rakov. “Every day I come in, I’m so incredibly grateful to the community that helped me get this together,” she said. “It’s really fun, to meet new people and talk about food.” The store is open Sunday and Monday 10-3 and Wed-Sat 10-6.
