Viva La Olive

Did you know there’s a store in Old Town that specializes in all things olive oils and vinegar? Viva La Olive opened in the former Bella Luz space at 300 N. Mead.

They carry over 60 flavors of olive oil and vinegar, many that are imported from 6 countries around the world, including Italy and Greece. They also carry gourmet food, gifts & more!

I was in the area and decided to check it out. It was the perfect timing because we were short on both and needed some to cook some Brussels sprouts over the weekend.

Well, I have to admit, upon walking in, I was a little overwhelmed. I’m about as basic as you can get when it comes to anything cooking at home, and typically buy whatever brand I find on the shelf at the grocery store. This was a whole new realm I’ve never stepped into.

There were containers and containers of oils and vinegar. Where would I begin?

Luckily, there was a store employee to help me out along the way. I told her what we were preparing and she was quick to give me some suggestions. She let me sample different ones and explained the differences in them. I shouldn’t have been shocked to see so many options, yet, I still was. There were a couple so delicious, I probably could have guzzled down straight from the container. Instead, I just purchased a bottle.

I ended up going with Italian Herb of Naples Dark Balsamic Vinegar and Hojiblanca.

It’s great you can sample everything so you’re not buying something blind.

Here were the prices for the bottles.

We’re excited to up our oils game at home and can’t wait to taste the final product.

For more on Viva La Olive, follow them on Facebook or visit their website. You can also drop by their storefront at 300 N. Mead in Old Town. Their hours are Tuesday through Thursday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Friday and Saturday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. They are closed on Mondays.

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