The Spice House: where seasonings fill the senses
When we think of spice markets, it’s often of far-off lands like India and Zanzibar, where peddlers ply fragrant wares under the hot summer sun. Thanks to The Spice House, a small chain of specialty spice shops, those delectable seasonings are now a whole lot closer.
With five locations in Illinois and Wisconsin — including one in Chicago’s charming Old Town neighborhood — the Spice House offers up some of the most top-quality seasonings available from around the world. In business for more than 50 years, the Spice House uses weekly batch grindings to ensure freshness and imports spices from countries of origin known for their premium products.
The selection is near overwhelming here, as rows upon rows of spices await taste tests. There’s everything from mint to mustard, saffron to sesame, and specialty seasonings developed in house. The spices can be used in baking and barbecue, in dishes from every type of international cuisine, and for special seasonal occasions with blends created just for holidays.
While the sheer array of spices is impressive, one of the things that make the Spice House so unique is the selection of neighborhood spices blended from Chicago’s diverse culinary history and heritage. The Spice House offers 15 blends based on Chicago culture, from the far-eastern cuisines of Argyle Street to the Polish flavors of Milwaukee Avenue. From Greektown to Ukrainian Village, each area has a story to tell, and seasoning to sell.
The original and specialty spices make terrific gifts, as well as the large collection of cookware accessories and recipes available on hand to make the spices really sing. If you’re a culinary novice, then cooking classes and seminars featuring the varied spices might be right for you — times and locations can be found on the store’s website.
While cooks will be well served here, the Spice House is an interesting, informative and entertaining stop for anyone. Rows of spices fill the senses and transport patrons around the world, all without leaving the city.
Posted on Apr 19, 2011 by D.J. Siegel
