I’ve been living in Greenfield MA for about 10 years now. I moved here because it seemed like an up and coming little progressive and funky town. Like so many other Greenfield’ers I couldn’t afford to buy in Northampton, Amherst or other funky western Massachusetts towns. You can get 3 times the house for your dollar compared to Northampton. This town has grown on me and I now consider it to be my hometown for better or worse. The thing that makes this place comfortable is the people. Northampton is great but there is a arrogant attitude throughout the area. Rich kids beggin on the street because it’s “fun”. Of course there are exceptions but for the most part you’ve got to put up with a snobbish attitude just to get a cup of coffee. Greenfield on the other hand is much more grounded. I wanted to write a bit about the businesses and business people in this area. I’ve had some great experiences and I know others have… I want to make some recommendations and give some kudos to some good people.
The Tire Warehouse : These guys are awesome. They go the extra mile to satisfy their customers and make them feel comfortable. They won’t rip you off – they work hard – they are fast – they give you (if you are a female or a kid) flowers or toys – they are happy and are all about custom service. I will never buy my tires anywhere else. They are a part of a regional chain but you would never suspect it. It feels like a family business. Go to 291 Federal St. in Greenfield or call (413) 774-5541
Higginbotham Insulation – 64 Haywood St Greenfield, MA 01301 (413) 774-3604 : They insulted the walls of my house and my attic last fall and did an outstanding, very thorough job. I got more than I expected for the price I paid. They cleaned up after themselves and finished ahead of schedule. This was the best $1,500 investment I’ve made in maybe forever. I insulated in September and as of February I’m very close to getting a return on my investment. Last year I went through 3, 275 gallon tanks of heating oil. This year I don’t even think I’ll use one. I couldn’t afford to pay them all at once and they were very accommodating with a payment plan. Good reliable people. They do windows as well and I’m planning to use them when I get around to replacing mine.
Foster’s Super Market Incorporated (413) 773-1100 – 70 Allen St, Greenfield, MA 01301: The best produce selection in the area. The best seafood selection in the area. Great meat and competitive prices. This is a family run supermarket – remember those? This is it. They beat Big Y and Stop and Shop hands down. Beer, Wine, Deli, all the essentials.
Hope and Olive 413-774-3150 – 44 Hope Street Greenfield MA 01301 : I am by no means a food critic but this is one of the best fine dinning experiences in Western Massachusetts. To quote their website:
We serve homegrown, farm-inspired food & drink, presented simply, using the best ingredients from our neighborhood. We believe in compassionate service, and strive to engage in our community with attention and care
This place has incredible food (try the white anchovies appetizer – no it’s not salty) – run by warm wonderful people who have succeeded in creating a very rich environment. You will be comfortable and happy when you leave and you will come back for more. These are the same folks who owned A Bottle of Bread in Shelburne Falls.
The Farmer’s Market: Greenfield – Saturdays 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Court Square – May to October.
I’ll keep adding to this post later.
