What was life like before Trader Joe's? Hawaiian shirts were unfashionable. Organic was a chemistry term, not an adjective for a preponderance of pesticide-free produce at affordable prices. Hummus came in one flavor, whereas now, there are six; our favorite commingles jalapeño and cilantro. Nobody knew what a peppadew was. Cheap wine tasted really bad. Vodka was usually served on the rocks, not added to marinara sauce. Chicken broth came solely in cans, not cartons. Hey, let's do lunch: Try a slice of manchego cheese between Indian naan, spread with wasabi mayonnaise and olive tapenade. Wash it down with iced bergamot orange tea. Yum!
Runner up:
3. 17th Street Market, 840 E. 17th St., 792-2588, www.treasureshidden.com
