I am getting "thisclose" to opening a spice shop... the only problem I have is finding the source(s) for absolutely top shelf spices. I have had many a place send me spice samples and none are up to the quality level I would like. I was at a place in Florida that had AMAZING spices, but of course, they don't want to give away their sources, as they are not wholesalers.

Thanks...

Chuck

I don't know how you can be "thisclose" to opening a shop if you don't have a clue yet of who or where your wholesaler's are, but good luck in your endeavor.

I get local spices by going in to the ethnic communities (Chinese, Korean, Mexican, etc) since they have a good turnover and spices and herbs are very fresh. Online I go to Penzeys Spices Home Page.

Ok, thisclsoe to the DECISION to open a shop...

I will have to call them, but I do not think they wholseale. It is not listed ion their site, and i was on it a while back and I think they said on their site that they do not wholesale.

best and original, not sure what you are asking for? Several chef friends of mine use Spices, Herbs, Seasonings and Culinary Ingredients | Spices Etc. and use that in addition to Penzey. They offer some very differnt mushroom and herb treats.

When I was in Turkey I discovered Aleppo peppers, wowzee, got home and it was in my next Penzey catalog
But best of all you must check out the Spice market in the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul.
There I got saffron from Iran, the best for $9 an ounce, the best in America at that time was going for $9 a gram. When they were putting my coriander, tumeric, paprika in little ziplocks the aroma was amazing and the prices made me swoon.

What is the competition where you are, is it a major city. Would Penzey give you a franchise there??
Maybe do tea or coffee to get people in?? offer olive oil or vinegars. A shop in Seattle has olive oil tastings that call me in.
Also as stated above check out Indian, Asian, Mexican shops and if you have room grow some fresh hers or find them from gardeners in the area?
Also is there a farmers market when you can offer you goods during the summer and get you name around for year round?
Good luck,
Nan

So what spices to you cook with at home or work? When I go out on a ship I pack a few $100 of stuff from Penzeys that I feel are must haves. But for several things I find the good ole Sysco bulk work fine?

Nan