Aug 31stFriendly Market

The market off Mt. Zion Road in Boone County is not officially open yet and I’m already a fan. Shoppers in Northern Kentucky  will soon be able to buy Kentucky Proud products, Kentucky wines and spirits, blended olive oils, balsamic vinegars, pastas and sauces, gourmet herbs and spices, artisan ice creams, locally raised meats, and fresh produce at the Friendly Market. The style of the market will be familiar to those who have shopped at Findlay Market in Cincinnati.

Owner Jack Berberich has been working on this project for several years and the interior market is nearly ready for its grand opening. According to the Cincinnati Enquirer, an official opening is scheduled for September 7. Uncle Buck’s produce will have many local products but will also sell produce not grown in Kentucky. The Flying Olive, formerly in Ft. Mitchell, will be selling flavored olive oils and vinegars. Artisan ice cream and ice cream specialties will be offered by the Colonel’s Creamery. Friendly Meats will be offering locally raised products with many coming from Brooks Meats in Walton. Fresh, locally produced pastas, pestos, and sauces will be available at Brocato’s Italian Market. Unbridled Spirits will feature Kentucky wines, bourbon, and micro brewed beers. A Kentucky Proud General Store will feature vendors selling their Kentucky proud products.

Colonel De’s Gourmet Herbs and Spices, already open, is one reason I’m a fan. Visitors to the market are treated to a wide array of spices and herbs from around the world. Colonel De Stewart features over 500 spices and blends. I was extremely impressed by his Mediterranean Oregano and his Tellicherry peppercorns. I love experimenting with herbs and spices in my cooking, as you know from my recipes, and found a new one I can’t wait to try, spinach flakes. Watch for my new recipe.

Outside is a Farmer’s Pavilion featuring local farm produce. The local farmer’s market offers local fruits and vegetables.  Visitors have been enjoying shopping here at the Farmer’s Pavilion for most of the summer.

When Friendly Market is fully opened, it will provide Northern Kentucky with a unique shopping experience. I will be there a lot.