Locals Go Nuts Over New Specialty Food Store

FOREST HILLS, QUEENS — Forest Hills residents are going nuts over a specialty food store that recently opened in the neighborhood.

The Nuts Factory, a family-owned store selling dried fruits, nuts and more, opened an outpost on Austin Street near 70th Avenue this month.

The outpost marks the national chain's first location in Queens — and neighbors in Forest Hills are largely impressed.

"Went in yesterday and picked up two bags full of deliciousness," wrote one neighbor on a Facebook thread about the store that garnered over 100 comments and nearly 200 likes. "Prices were not bad, the product was fresh (obviously as they roast in house) and the staff was extremely helpful."

Others also felt compelled to leave a good review after stopping by.

"I was there a few minutes ago. Store is beautiful and so organized," a neighbor wrote. "If you have a sweet tooth and a nuts lover this is the kind of place for you!"

A couple of people even said the shop has restored their faith in the neighborhood.

"FINALLY something decent opening on Austin," wrote one.

"This is so cool! Just when you think this neighborhood is going downhill something like this pops up," wrote another. "Never give up on this neighborhood."

While most were impressed, a couple of people said that the shop's items were too pricey, and others worried about the health implications of shopping at a mostly bulk-food store.

The Nuts Factory at 70-10 Austin Street, which is replacing a T-Mobile store, is the chain's third New York City outpost, with two others in Manhattan.

Known for its nuts and dried fruits, the shop also sells a large selection of spices, olives, chocolates, candies, coffee, tea and other items mostly in bulk.

Find out more about The Nuts Factory here.