STORE AROUND THE CORNER: Florida Olive Oil Co.

From chipotle and grapefruit to habanero lime, the Florida Olive Oil Co. on St. Armands Circle has every type of olive oil and balsamic vinegar you can image, and then some.

The store stocks over 30 different flavors of olive oil and balsamic vinegar, including their best-seller, a balsamic vinegar aged 18 years to achieve its richest flavor and texture.

While owners Arnish and Sarla Patel, who opened the St. Armands location in November 2009, are happy to recommend their favorite products, they don’t want their customers to just take their word for it- they want them to taste for themselves.

“I want them to experience the flavor,” says Sarla Patel of the free tastings offered to all of their customers. “The taste makes the experience.”

For those looking to spice things up, the store also offers the hottest naturally grown pepper in the world, called Ghost Pepper. The blend of sea salt and naga jolokia peppers is so spicy that the jar has a warning label across the front.

“It takes a while before it really hits you,” says Patel of the fiery flavor. “You only need a small pinch.”

Customers can mix and match different combinations of olive oils, vinegars and seasonings, or buy them in pre-arranged packages, which make great gifts and souvenirs.

Whether you're looking to jazz up your pasta or try out an unexpected dessert topping, Florida Olive Oil Co. has something to suit every taste.

Contact Maria Amodio at [email protected].

BASICS
Florida Olive Oil Co.
Address: 384 St. Armands Circle
Phone: 388-2640
Website: www.floridaoliveoil.com
Employees: Two
What makes them unique: Their extensive variety of olive oils and balsamic vinegars