Penzeys Spices

Cook&Bottlewasher · April 15, 2006

Surprisingly or not surprisingly, I find some great deals on spices at Cost Plus World Market. I've been able to find good saffron, cardamom seeds, dried chiles, bay leaves, etc. there at decent prices. I'm always surprised that they carry stuff like Vegemite, Marmite, european mustards and Indian pickles, seasoning such as thai curry pastes and Maggi, in addition to japanese nori and wasabi. The only downside is that they're not always well-stocked with the stuff.

Speaking of Penzey's......Which is the ONLY Place to buy spices.........................I was told yesterday when I called Penzeys to ask about a non-spice related matter, that they would be opening a store in Alexandria,probably near King Street Metro, probably by fall.

Oh,yeah! Spice time!!!! I am from the great birthplace of Penzeys and I can testify to the wonders of shopping in the store.

zoramargolis · April 15, 2006

Remember? Penzey's had a "contest" a couple of years ago, where people sent in postcards requesting a store in their community--all of us on the local food boards participated. The city which submitted the most cards supposedly won. WDC was a loser at that time, but perhaps Penzey's has had second thoughts about us after learning about the success of Wegman's stores and Whole Foods stores in this area.

shogun · April 15, 2006

Or they're working their way down the list based on number of respondants in each city, or at least taking it into account. Will be nice not to have to run spice from back home in Norwalk.

goldenticket · April 17, 2006

Great news! After visiting a Penzeys store in Minneapolis a few months back, I had thought it would be a great addition to the area. I even checked out their website to see what info I could find about franchise opportunities. Alas, they don't do franchises...but I'm still glad they're coming here (if it's true) ! Things are looking up in Old Town, food-wise .

Principia · April 17, 2006

Remember? Penzey's had a "contest" a couple of years ago, where people sent in postcards requesting a store in their community--all of us on the local food boards participated. The city which submitted the most cards supposedly won. WDC was a loser at that time, but perhaps Penzey's has had second thoughts about us after learning about the success of Wegman's stores and Whole Foods stores in this area.

They did indeed say at the time that all the city areas in the top 10 or so would looked at very closely.

For my part I put in a postcard for anywhere in the DC area (so as not to split my vote), but suggested Alexandria, Arlington or Bethesda as probably the best places to drop what would hopefully be their first one in the area.

Scott Johnston · October 16, 2006

Any one know anything else about this? There recent catalog sited that they were going to open TWO stores in the DC area very soon

TedE · October 16, 2006

Any one know anything else about this? There recent catalog sited that they were going to open TWO stores in the DC area very soon

Did they provide any more specific geographical details than "DC area x 2"?

ManekiNeko · October 16, 2006

Did they provide any more specific geographical details than "DC area x 2"?

Nope. Here is the sentence, verbatim,

"We are also fairly optimistic about a spot in Cleveland and two locations in the DC area, one in Virginia and the other in Maryland."

Mike, who just happens to have the recent catalog at his desk at work...

Scott Johnston · October 16, 2006

Now that's service!

Nope. Here is the sentence, verbatim,
"We are also fairly optimistic about a spot in Cleveland and two locations in the DC area, one in Virginia and the other in Maryland."

Mike, who just happens to have the recent catalog at his desk at work...

ManekiNeko · October 16, 2006

Now that's service!

I just hope they are Metro-accessible (not necessary, though). I lived about 6 blocks away from the store in St. Paul and let me tell you walking into a Penzey's brick and mortar store is pure hedonistic bliss. Hardcore olfactory food porn. I was kind of surprised DC didn't win the contest, but with three states and multiple entries from each area we probably diluted our votes as Principia alludes.

plunk · October 16, 2006

Not sure if this is it, but one of the Old Town t-shirt/ice cream/snow globe stores closed abruptly last week. There is paper on the windows and the posted permits say something about a "gourmet" store. I believe its at King and Alfred, on the Eammon's side of the street.

monavano · October 16, 2006

I passed that the other day. It's across from Majestic and it did say it was "Old Town Gourmet".

Ilaine · October 16, 2006

I lived about 6 blocks away from the store in St. Paul and let me tell you walking into a Penzey's brick and mortar store is pure hedonistic bliss.

Very nice to smell what you're buying before you buy it. Not the actual jar, of course, but the sample jar. Finally understood the difference between the cinnamons. Words don't do it justice.

Scott Johnston · October 17, 2006

I sent a email off to Penzey's today asking for more info and inviting their local managers and employees to join the board. Will let you know if they respond.

Scott

smokey · October 17, 2006

Woo-hoo! Thanks for sending them an email, Scott (and don't forget we MD-residing folks who want reconnaisance on the location of *our* Penzeys!)

Jacques Gastreaux · October 17, 2006

Not sure if this is it, but one of the Old Town t-shirt/ice cream/snow globe stores closed abruptly last week. There is paper on the windows and the posted permits say something about a "gourmet" store. I believe its at King and Alfred, on the Eammon's side of the street.

Did you happen to catch who it was that obtained the permit?

plunk · October 17, 2006

Did you happen to catch who it was that obtained the permit?

No. I just remember that it said something about "gourmet." Can't recall if Penzey's name appeared on it - sorry. I may be by this afternoon and will give a closer look.

Scott Johnston · October 17, 2006

My reply from Penzey's

Hi Scott,

Thank you for taking the time to write. I took it upon myself to take a

quick peek at http://www.donrockwell.com and I'm impressed with what I saw.

I know I'll probably take a better look when I'm off the clock and at home.

Our location in Alexandria fell through, but we are still scouting the area

for the next "great spot". Right now we have our eyes on two locations that

look very promising in the D.C. area. We hoping we can get those settled and

open by Spring 2007. We just opened a new store this past weekend in Arvada,

CO and will have a new store open in Huntington Station, NY by the end of

the year. You're welcome to call and check in every so often for updates on

upcoming Penzeys locations. 1-800-741-7787

Thanks again for your email. Have a wonderful afternoon!

MsDiPesto · October 17, 2006

That's great news to hear. I Just ordered a new supply of can't do without items from Penzeys last night (including their fantastic cinnamon). Open near my house, pleeeeeassseee!

Ilaine · December 11, 2006

Most recent Penzey's catalogue says Rockville and Falls Church are sites of future DC locations. See p. 3, Christmas catalogue.

Kicking myself in the rear because I just drove through Birmingham on Friday and had no idea there was a Penzey's there.

Guess we will just have to check out the Philly store, that seems to be the closest now.

Scott Johnston · December 11, 2006

Falls Church! Woo Who! Might mean Tyson's

Most recent Penzey's catalogue says Rockville and Falls Church are sites of future DC locations. See p. 3, Christmas catalogue.
Kicking myself in the rear because I just drove through Birmingham on Friday and had no idea there was a Penzey's there.

Guess we will just have to check out the Philly store, that seems to be the closest now.

MsDiPesto · December 11, 2006

I saw that about Falls Church being one of the new locations, looks like Im getting my wish for a Penzey's in my backyard.

cjsadler · December 11, 2006

Very nice to smell what you're buying before you buy it. Not the actual jar, of course, but the sample jar. Finally understood the difference between the cinnamons. Words don't do it justice.

I just visited one in Houston. First time I've been to a Penzey's store, and you're right-- being able to smell all the different spices is great. You don't get that with mail order. Many things I wouldn't ordinarily purchase (like spice blends) smelled incredible and had me thinking about buying and using them.

ManekiNeko · January 11, 2007

Most recent Penzey's catalogue says Rockville and Falls Church are sites of future DC locations. See p. 3, Christmas catalogue.

The Winter 2007 page 3 screed provides addresses:

1048 Rockville Pike in Rockville

513 W. Broad Street in Falls Church (most decidedly not Tysons)

ETA for both was listed as "Spring"

Edited to add "W." to the FC address

Scott Johnston · January 11, 2007

I think that is across from Panera Bread . Oh boy in my backyard practically!

http://www.google.com/maps?ie=UTF-8&oe...0Church%2C%20va

The Winter 2007 page 3 screed provides addresses:
1048 Rockville Pike in Rockville

513 Broad Street in Falls Church (most decidedly not Tysons)

ETA for both was listed as "Spring"

DanielK · January 11, 2007

Looks like the Rockville one will be in the same shopping center as Sam Woo.

Scott Johnston · March 7, 2007

Looks like we are getting closer. The store in Falls Church is still be built out. Will keep everyone posted.

-----Original Message-----

Hello Scott, At this time I do not have exact store opening dates. It should be mid to late April. You may contact us in 2-3 weeks for more info. Thanks for your interest. Lani

To:

[email protected]

Subject:

Any more word on when the two stores in the DC area will open? (Rockville and Falls Church)

Scott Johnston · March 15, 2007

Whan I had lunch at Sam Woo today, I noticed the Penzey sign banner up. The site is mostly built out awaiting the fixtures.

Looks like the Rockville one will be in the same shopping center as Sam Woo.

cleohanlon · April 2, 2007

Penzeys will be opening in Rockville on April 19 (Thursday) or Friday(April 20)

ol_ironstomach · April 2, 2007

Thanks for the update, and welcome to the company of Rockvillwellians!

Heather · April 2, 2007

Penzeys will be opening in Rockville on April 19 (Thursday) or Friday(April 20)

That is excellent news!

And welcome to DR.com

Scott Johnston · April 16, 2007

JPW and I stopped by the Rockville location today. People were moving boxes and wooden crates from a large moving van. They all indicated that Friday April 20th should be opening day. I am not sure if they will have any opening specials, but the existence of a great spice house in DC is a major event.

cleohanlon · April 18, 2007

Update on Penzeys. If the Fire Inspector completes his inspection today, it will be open tomorrow, Thursday. HOWEVER -- thank you Montgomery County -- If he doesn't get to it today, it will be at least next Tuesday....

Scott Johnston · April 18, 2007

Can you post the hours for weekdays and weekends? Any opening specials?

Update on Penzeys. If the Fire Inspector completes his inspection today, it will be open tomorrow, Thursday. HOWEVER -- thank you Montgomery County -- If he doesn't get to it today, it will be at least next Tuesday....

cleohanlon · April 18, 2007

Can you post the hours for weekdays and weekends? Any opening specials?

10-6, don't know about Sunday yet.

cleohanlon · April 19, 2007

Penzey won't open until next Monday or Tuesday. The County Fire Inspector isn't available until then. The hours will be 10-6 M-Sat and 11-5 on Sunday.

Scott Johnston · April 23, 2007

Penzey's is sorta open!

I stopped by at noon today and the store was opened for "training". I walked around and bought 1/2 a dozen spices. The store is modeled after the catalog. Every spice is there in plastic containers, glass jars and bulk bags. Each spice is also available to sniff and taste (at least I did with the scezwan peppercorns). All of the blends are there as well. If you are on their catalog list, watch out for a promotion flyer coming your way.

cleohanlon · April 25, 2007

It's now officially open at 1048 Rockville Pike in Rockville, left side (East)of RVP, one block below (south) of Wooton Pkwy. :blink:

Phone 301-738-8707. Hours are 10-6 M-Sat, 11-5 on Sunday. Postcard announcements are going out to all catalog subscribers.

Ilaine · April 25, 2007

I drove by the Falls Church site yesterday. The building, an upscale mixed use building, retail at street level, pricey ($500K - $1 million plus) condos above, is very much under construction, little more than a frame now.

Given the state of the real estate market now, if the builders are expecting to finance construction from condo buyers, Virginia Penzey fans may be in for a long wait.

Ilaine · April 29, 2007

Reporting back from Penzey's in Rockville. Yes, it's a long drive from Fairfax/Burke, but near Joe's Noodle and the ethnic groceries in the same little strip as Joe's, so hit them first, then Penzey's. ("Near" is in the sense of driving all the way from Fairfax/Burke, if you're walking it's not all that near.) (Fresh green almonds at the Persian grocery but that's another story.)

Saw one friendly, smiling Rockweiller face there but can't remember her alias.

The store seems larger and the space more pleasant then the only other Penzey's we've visited, in Jacksonville.

Same basic layout, though. Herbs are grouped together, and then arranged in alphabetical order. Same for spices, and same for baking goods. There is also a gift box section, and supplies for making your own gift boxes.

Cinnamon has its own little area for all the different cinnamons. Chili makings, that is to say, chili peppers and chili powders, also has its own area.

Everything but the extracts has a largish demonstration jar you can open and sniff. The extracts are in a flask, but you can open that and sniff them, too. I finally wore out my sniffer, and couldn't really smell the more delicate aromas after a few dozen sniffs, but could still smell the strong ones.

We walked around, sniffing everything, and adding treats to the basket, until finally I was worried that we were going over the $100 I had budgeted for the occasion. But, a pleasant surprise, 16 jars of this and that came to only $50! And they threw in a small jar of Chinese cinnamon as a grand opening gift, if you bring in your postcard. We forgot the postcard but they gave us the cinnamon anyway.

The prices are reasonable, the staff knowledgeable, because they were hired from a pool of regular Penzey buyers who received a postcard asking them if they wanted a job. So they're not only knowledgeable, they're loyal and enthusiastic.

I second the complaint that the hours should be longer, at least on the weekends. Everybody in our house has a full time job and a long commute, so we've only got the weekends for places that close early.

OTOH Rockville Pike is strip mall central, so if you are going to make a strip mall run anyway, you can pack in a lot of errand running and shopping, for example, there is a large Whole Foods almost across the street, nearby a Container Store, Staples, BB&B, Borders, etc., etc., etc.

Not Metro friendly, though. Can't have everything.

Don't forget your postcard.

DanielK · April 30, 2007

Not Metro friendly, though.

I agree that it's not close walking distance to a Metro station. 1.5 miles south of Rockville station, 1 mile north of Twinbrook. However, there probably isn't an hour they're open when there isn't a bus (Metrobus or Ride-On) going every 3 minutes up or down the Pike.

Sthitch · April 30, 2007

I wish they had a better chili selection, they only have a few of what are offered in the catalog.

The nice person who was rang-up my purchases told me on Saturday that the Falls Church store will open before July.

mktye · June 21, 2007

I drove by the Falls Church site yesterday. The building, an upscale mixed use building, retail at street level, pricey ($500K - $1 million plus) condos above, is very much under construction, little more than a frame now.
Given the state of the real estate market now, if the builders are expecting to finance construction from condo buyers, Virginia Penzey fans may be in for a long wait.

Received a postcard in the mail today that the Falls Church Penzeys will be "Opening Soon".

Info:

513 West Broad Street

Falls Church

800-741-7787

Mon-Sat 10-6, Sun 11-5 (same hours as Rockville location)

Pat · June 21, 2007

I agree that it's not close walking distance to a Metro station. 1.5 miles south of Rockville station, 1 mile north of Twinbrook. However, there probably isn't an hour they're open when there isn't a bus (Metrobus or Ride-On) going every 3 minutes up or down the Pike.

OK, this is the info I was looking for. I hate the drive to Rockville, so I have not been out there. I only saw that it was not close to metro before and didn't check more closely. A mile or mile and a half is nothing. I can walk that easily. I have to check my list, but everything should be comfortably carried in a backpack. Thanks (well, kind of belated

)

ol_ironstomach · June 23, 2007

A few observations to add to Ilaine's excellent description.

In the PRO column: Bulk pricing is taken at the register, so if you pick up four 4 oz bulk bags, you pay the 16 oz unit price. Obviously this is great for freshness compared to buying a single bigger bag. They carry a specially selected grade of Indian peppercorns that are extra potent, and obviously spicier than their "normal" tellicherrys. Interesting soft-bark cinnamon. Very friendly staff.

In the CON column: Nothing is freshness-dated! Seems like about half the store is dedicated to ready-to-use herb or spice blends. Selection of pure spices is good, but not exceptional. No Tahitian vanilla. Very few salts. Nothing ground-to-order in the store. Surprisingly few accoutrements...almost no grinders, racks, etc. Just empty spice bottles. Closes at 6 pm during the week.

cleohanlon · July 6, 2007

A few observations to add to Ilaine's excellent description.
In the PRO column: Bulk pricing is taken at the register, so if you pick up four 4 oz bulk bags, you pay the 16 oz unit price. Obviously this is great for freshness compared to buying a single bigger bag. They carry a specially selected grade of Indian peppercorns that are extra potent, and obviously spicier than their "normal" tellicherrys. Interesting soft-bark cinnamon. Very friendly staff.

In the CON column: Nothing is freshness-dated! Seems like about half the store is dedicated to ready-to-use herb or spice blends. Selection of pure spices is good, but not exceptional. No Tahitian vanilla. Very few salts. Nothing ground-to-order in the store. Surprisingly few accoutrements...almost no grinders, racks, etc. Just empty spice bottles. Closes at 6 pm during the week.

The Penzey staff refreshes their entire stock every 3 weeks. The spices are prepared (ground/mixed, etc.) in their factory in Milwaukee and shipped twice weekly to the stores. So, essentially, the day you buy the spice is quite close to the 'birth date' and the freshness clock is just beginning to tick.

Pool Boy · July 6, 2007

Went there for the first time a few weekends ago. Nice store. Really disappointed in the salts selection, but everything else was pretty good. It is easy to do a lot of damage to your wallet there, though.

Pat · July 21, 2007

Just got back from Penzey's. My neighbor--and fellow Penzey's aficionado--drove us to Rockville, which worked out nicely . I got everything on my list (and I took the list!), plus a few things I almost put on the list but didn't, and a bunch of other stuff . I came in 78 cents under my budgeted limit, which sounds good except that I set the budget at what I thought was an artificially high level, based on what I usually spend via mail order. Of course, I didn't have to pay for shipping this way .

I bought some things in bags but mostly bought jars. I tried for a while refilling jars from bulk bags, but that hasn't worked too well for me. It's more expensive (and seems silly) to buy things in jars when the bags are cheaper, but I have found that I have trouble getting the bags closed again. When I store them away, then I can't remember what I have and have to search through everything to find them. When I go to refill jars, I also manage to spill a fair amount .

Now I've got to rearrange my spice drawers to put the new stuff away. That's the kind of cleaning and organizing I actually enjoy!

ScotteeM · July 21, 2007

Any word on the Falls Church location?

Ilaine · July 22, 2007

Any word on the Falls Church location?

I drove past the building yesterday, which looks semi-finished but very much unoccupied.

cleohanlon · August 2, 2007

I drove past the building yesterday, which looks semi-finished but very much unoccupied.

The tenative date for opening is now Aug 17, but they are not too hopeful. Apparently, the inspectors are quite slow, and backlogged in VA.

Ilaine · August 2, 2007

The tenative date for opening is now Aug 17, but they are not too hopeful. Apparently, the inspectors are quite slow, and backlogged in VA.

City of Falls Church does the inspections, not the state nor even the surrounding county. For a small municipality, there's an awful lot of construction to keep up with. It's urbanizing rapidly.

The plus side of which is the advent of places like Penzey's.

Sthitch · August 23, 2007

Well it is August 23rd, anyone know if the Falls Church store has opened?

FunnyJohn · August 23, 2007

Well it is August 23rd, anyone know if the Falls Church store has opened?

Not according to their website. I got a post card a few months ago saying they were looking for employees, but no news since.

Scott Johnston · August 23, 2007

Try the 800 number for the latest scoop. At least that is where I got update to date info on Rockville as it opened.

Ilaine · August 23, 2007

Well it is August 23rd, anyone know if the Falls Church store has opened?

We drove past that location a week and a half ago, and no sign of Penzey, not even a "Coming Soon" sign.

baczkowski · August 23, 2007

I had a pork tenderloin I wanted to cook pretty quickly after working late, so I just drizzled on some olive oil and a good coating of Penzey's Barbecues of the Americas spice mix and tossed it on the grill. Delicious. Ridiculously simple and probably the best pork tenderloin I've had. I've used this spice mix as my ribs' seasoning before, but I appreciated the spiced char far more with the juiciness of the ternderloin. The initial bite was good, but I think it was the hint of sweetness a few seconds after chewing that really made it a little more special. The ease and satisfaction will make it hard not to just prepare it this way from now on.

Pax,

Brian

cleohanlon · September 4, 2007

Penzeys is opening in VA this Friday or Saturday, Sept 7/8.

Pete · September 6, 2007

Penzeys is opening in VA this Friday or Saturday, Sept 7/8.

I just got confirmation from Penzey's that the Falls Church store is officially opening on Saturday, September 8th.

MsDiPesto · September 7, 2007

I had a pork tenderloin I wanted to cook pretty quickly after working late, so I just drizzled on some olive oil and a good coating of Penzey's Barbecues of the Americas spice mix and tossed it on the grill. Delicious. Ridiculously simple and probably the best pork tenderloin I've had. I've used this spice mix as my ribs' seasoning before, but I appreciated the spiced char far more with the juiciness of the ternderloin. The initial bite was good, but I think it was the hint of sweetness a few seconds after chewing that really made it a little more special. The ease and satisfaction will make it hard not to just prepare it this way from now on.
Pax,

Brian

Very good to know as that was the spice they threw in the box as a freebie with one of our last orders. And pork tenderloin is a frequent resort for us, whether it's entertaining, bringing food to a party, etc.

ScotteeM · September 8, 2007

I went, I sniffed, and I bought a few more things than I had planned on . . .

This is a great way to buy spices, herbs, and seasonings--where you can sniff before you buy. I bought a few things I didn't expect to, based on fragrance, and some things I thought I'd want I passed by on this trip after sniffing them.

Maybe later. It's nice to have this so close to home!

Scott Johnston · September 11, 2007

I went in to their new Falls Church location on Sunday (and I am very glad that they are open on Sunday , as they close at 6 PM during the week). The setup is nearly the same as the Rockville Store. They rotate their stock every 5-6 weeks through a weekly shipment from HQ. During the Holidays they will get 2 shipments a week. The store is 95% spices, salts and spice mixtures. They sell empty spice bottles of various sizes, some grinders, magazines and a few other things. I was surprised that they do not have more devices and accessories. I have found their spices to be very fresh, reasonable in price and every time I am in one of their stores, I learn something. There is also a really cool coloring area for kids. While not always convenient, I rather buy my spices here than at the local mega mart. I think the costs are less, selection greater and the quality higher!

MsDiPesto · September 17, 2007

Made it to the Falls Church Penzey's today, and restocked several things and gave a try to others. Nice space, convenient parking, cherry space. And being able to smell different things is wonderful. Finally, I know which ingredient is responsible for the aroma in curry. Almost got the Green/Black Peppercorn mix, but the price put me off. Took home the Telicherry instead, which is always good.

Pat · December 1, 2008

I made my first trip to the Falls Church store today, after several to the Rockville store. I hate the drive to Rockville, but I'm not sure the drive to Falls Church is a whole lot better. It seems silly, though, to pay for shipping and wait for delivery when I can drive to a store.

They seem increasingly to be pushing new products, including more and more blends. At some point, it would seem that the expanding inventory has got to push something else off the shelves. The Falls Church store seemed about the same size as the Rockville space to me, and, as Scott noted, the layout is essentially the same. I do like the ability to smell spices before buying them. On the last trip, that led me to buy things I hadn't planned on, but I was more disciplined this time.

The 8 oz. bottle of double strength vanilla ($27.69) really blew my budget, but I decided on that over the smaller size. I'm almost out of vanilla, including the batch I made myself. Their vanilla is about the best I've encountered. I only made one impulse purchase (though I had a long list ) and that was Northwoods Seasoning, which I have not previously tried. Another thing I bought that I've never used is juniper berries, but they were on my list . Of course, I've been compiling this list for months, and I have no idea now what I needed them for when I added them to the list :lol: .

Sthitch · December 1, 2008

Another thing I bought that I've never used is juniper berries

They come in handy if you ever plan to make your own grav lox. I also add them to spice blends that I make for some pork dishes.

Scott Johnston · March 31, 2009

Here is the email, note it says I can forward to a friend (or two)

Dear Scott,

We are just finishing up sending off our newest catalog to the printers and I am excited. I really think we have made a better spice and seasoning catalog. The look of the catalog has changed a little. I know from past experience that even in the most stable of times, change can bring letters of worry to my mailbox. I cook too. I understand just how important what goes on in the kitchen is to my and my family's life, and I don't want anything to change what happens there. I'm still only starting to recover from when my favorite tomato paste changed the woman they feature on their 6 oz can, and that was probably over a decade ago.

We respect what it is you do in your kitchen, and the ideas for the changes to our catalog have grown out of that respect and admiration for what it is you do in your kitchen. What has me excited is that I think we have been able in this catalog to successfully blend in with our spices a sense of just how wonderful people (like you) who cook are. Over the years I have come to understand that where spices are all about the best in nature, people who take the time to cook are all about the best in human nature. At Penzeys Spices we are so lucky to be at this intersection of the best in nature with the best in human nature, and I think our new catalog takes a big step toward showing just where we live.

So once again to reassure: even though the catalog has changed a little, Penzeys has not. It is just me being me, and us being us, only now we are a little bit more so.

Oh yes and free cloves: I hate to take up your time with an email without giving you something in return, and it does seem to be the clove time of year. Whether you are doing something as traditional as an Easter ham or as fresh as a spring vegetable curry, whole cloves add that extra zip that makes all the difference. With what supermarkets charge for cloves these days I fear people will just give them a pass this year. Our prices are much better than the supermarket, but with cloves free there is no reason at all to bypass their wonderful flavor.

So now through April 11, you can get a free (with any purchase) ¼ cup jar of our whole Madagascar cloves. To redeem at the Penzeys store nearest you, simply print out this e-mail and bring it in. Or just click here to place an order and get your free cloves. When completing the order, enter code 52133C in the box on the order screen. Or if you prefer to order by phone, simply mention this same code - 52133C - to our friendly operators. We're at 800-741-7787.So the new catalog is on the way to the printers. It will take a while to get to your home, but when it arrives please check it out. A few more pages, a few more recipes and a lot more of what makes cooking so magical. I hope you enjoy it - and your free cloves,

Bill Penzey

PS: Feel free to forward this offer to a friend.

No Cash Value. Limit one per household. Original e-mail printout must be presented at time of redemption in retail store. Not applicable to prior sales. Orders placed by mail must include printout of this e-mail. Orders placed by phone or online use product code 52133C for free ¼ Cup Jar of Madagascar Cloves. Product code must be entered in Express Ordering section of our online store at www.penzeys.com. Standard shipping and handling rates apply. Offer expires April 11, 2009.

zoramargolis · April 1, 2009

I had a chance to visit the brand new Penzey's store in downtown Santa Monica. They have a cool display for their vanilla and sweet baking spices, in a re-created 1940's kitchen. And I was able to introduce a friend to Penzey's, who'd never heard of them.

FunnyJohn · July 29, 2009

Anyone else tried the Barbecue 3000 rub? I'm a big fan especially on ribs. [Would an administrator please retitle this thread by deleting the reference to the clove deal which has long since expired.}

KMango · July 29, 2009

Anyone else tried the Barbecue 3000 rub? I'm a big fan especially on ribs. [Would an administrator please retitle this thread by deleting the reference to the clove deal which has long since expired.}

Yes, believe it or not it transforms grilled squash into a smoky pleasure. Mix the seasoning and a touch of olive oil with the raw veggies, and grill accordingly.

I was just at the Rockville store yesterday and they were giving away .6oz (the big one) bottles of their new Pasta Sprinkle. The main ingredient is dried basil, so I am skeptical, but will be trying it tonight with pasta made from my CSA share.

Pat · July 29, 2009

I was just at the Rockville store yesterday and they were giving away .6oz (the big one) bottles of their new Pasta Sprinkle. The main ingredient is dried basil, so I am skeptical, but will be trying it tonight with pasta made from my CSA share.

I always keep pasta sprinkle on hand. I use it as an all-purpose dried Italian seasoning.

I've been sorting through old Penzeys catalogs lately, pulling out recipes. (They have some on their website but not all of the ones in the catalogs.) I'm getting annoyed by how many of the recipes are built around their custom blends. My memory could be off, but I seem to recall that older recipes used more ingredients that had generic substitutions. On the other hand, they have been moving towards more and more of these custom seasonings, so they probably are weighting the recipes more in that direction too. Man, I have saved a ridiculous number of these catalogs over the years. Time to pitch them.

zoramargolis · July 29, 2009

Anyone else tried the Barbecue 3000 rub? I'm a big fan especially on ribs. [Would an administrator please retitle this thread by deleting the reference to the clove deal which has long since expired.}

I make my own bbq rub to use on steak, chicken and grilled veg, and have been going to Penzey's for a key ingredient: onion powder, which I can't often find elsewhere when I need it*. The rub is just about the only place I use garlic powder and onion powder. It also contains Spanish smoked paprika (which I can find cheaper than Penzey's in other places, like A&H Seafood in Bethesda), ground cumin, ancho chile powder, powdered Mexican oregano, powdered allspice, powdered bay leaf, and lots of salt, black pepper and some brown sugar.

*I still have some of the Penzey's onion powder but am running low, and I recently found some in the Latin spice section of Shopper's Food Warehouse. Sorry, Penzey's, but I gotta go for the lower cost option--it's probably the same stuff purchased in bulk and just packaged by the two different purveyors anyway.

FunnyJohn · July 29, 2009

I make my own bbq rub to use on steak, chicken and grilled veg, and have been going to Penzey's for a key ingredient: onion powder, which I can't often find elsewhere when I need it*. The rub is just about the only place I use garlic powder and onion powder. It also contains Spanish smoked paprika (which I can find cheaper than Penzey's in other places, like A&H Seafood in Bethesda), dried cumin, ancho chile powder, powdered Mexican oregano, powdered allspice, powdered bay leaf, and lots of salt, black pepper and some brown sugar.

*I still have some of the Penzey's onion powder but am running low, and I recently found some in the Latin spice section of Shopper's Food Warehouse. Sorry, Penzey's, but I gotta go for the lower cost option--it's probably the same stuff purchased in bulk and just packaged by the two different purveyors anyway.

The Penzey's Spanish smoked paprkika is a key ingredient for my home-made BBQ sauce -- along with the Penzeys Barbecue of the Americas powder. Sometimes I use a rub I found in one of Steve Raichlen's books, but since I discovered the BBQ 3000 I've gotten lazy.

TheMatt · July 23, 2010

Reviving an old thread time! I find myself with a birthday gift card to Penzey's, so I might swing by the Falls Church branch tomorrow. Any tips on new/old good spice blends or spices or anything? It's been a while since I've been in a Penzey's and they seem to have stopped sending me catalogs, so I'm up for any suggestions!

Pat · July 24, 2010

Reviving an old thread time! I find myself with a birthday gift card to Penzey's, so I might swing by the Falls Church branch tomorrow. Any tips on new/old good spice blends or spices or anything? It's been a while since I've been in a Penzey's and they seem to have stopped sending me catalogs, so I'm up for any suggestions!

It depends on how much money you have to play with. I love their double-strength vanilla, but that ran up my total quite a bit on the last trip. Their sandwich sprinkle is great for making pita chips or similar snacks. Their pasta sprinkle is my go-to Italian seasoning. They now have several different varieties of cinnamon, as well. Oh, and pick up some smoked paprika.

Stop at Pizzeria Orso for lunch. It's almost literally around the corner .

MsDiPesto · July 26, 2010

Reviving an old thread time! I find myself with a birthday gift card to Penzey's, so I might swing by the Falls Church branch tomorrow. Any tips on new/old good spice blends or spices or anything? It's been a while since I've been in a Penzey's and they seem to have stopped sending me catalogs, so I'm up for any suggestions!

Check out the "Mural of Flavor" blend. You can make fantastic sauteed carrots with it, and it lends itself quite harmoniously to any variety of dishes. Their Adobo seasoning kicks a lot of things up out of the ho-hum category too.

Anna Blume · December 20, 2010

Visited the Rockville store recently. Lovely and tempting. Found a rare Turkish ingredient that I haven't seen elsewhere, including Yekta shortly thereafter: mahlab seeds (from pits of sour cherries).

Service also great--after I walked out into the frigid air, the sales assistant ran out a minute later in short sleeves to catch me since I left my purchase behind.

It wasn't until I got home that I saw the aleppo pepper was not a pure spice. The label should have said it was a mixture since it contains salt and safflower oil. Probably will return it. (Found just the ground pepper at Dean & DeLuca once.)

KMango · December 20, 2010

Just finished my web ordering off the Penzey's site for holiday gifts.

For orders $20 or more, two-day shipping is the same price as regular shipping, offer ends at noon on Wednesday 12/23.

Highly recommend the 4-jar International Salt Free gift box ($21) or the Mini Gift Box ($12) coupled with the Grill and Broil Mini Gift Box ($7.95) as thoughtful gift options.

(procrastination)

(pays off)

(eventually)

KMango · September 24, 2011

It's beginning to look at lot like Christmas...

OK, no it's not, but wowza the last post on the Penzey's thread was during the holidays. And now another one of their promotions compelled me to post today.

The most recent Penzey's catalog includes a coupon for a free "Teach!" box. A pin, a bumper sticker, a recipe booklet, and two spice jars await. One includes cinnamon, perfect for otherwise ho-hum pastries in the teacher's lounge. The other is a jar of "Forward!", a new Penzey's offering, a bold, salt-free blend that could turn the lunch lady's most mundane casserole into something far more palatable.

Snag your free one, then pick up a few more for around $9 each. A really cute and welcomed gift idea for some of the most important people on the planet.

And make sure to read your receipt carefully...

SeanMike · September 28, 2011

Snag your free one, then pick up a few more for around $9 each. A really cute and welcomed gift idea for some of the most important people on the planet.

I saw that the other week. My mom is a teacher, so that reminds me I need to get down there and pick up one for her...

(And then, ya know, actually visit her or something.)

Of course, while I'm there I'll probably buy a bunch of stuff too. I love their Ozark seasoning...

ktmoomau · October 19, 2018

I think Penzey's is running a pretty good deal if you need a spice right now... 4/S salt, italian herb and southwest spice free if you go to a store (and ma ) and 1/2 cup jar up to $10.49 in value for free in stores. You can get it online, but there will be shipping, but they dropped the minimum shipping charge to $25. You need the email or coupon, but can sign up here: http://spices.penzeys.com/coupon.html?mkt_tok=eyJpIjoiTTJNd09ETXlZV1k0TmpZeCIsInQiOiI0eVpYXC94TzdhXC85clBIVkZyQUVldWhiSmljRzFOSmcybFhkcWlQbXBpZ01WeG9wZjR1UnJEbU82Wk95U3kyNWVFY0VKbjc3QjZ6VVJBQ082ZFBZbHg3RTRUcUJ1dmVaZlNVUEJCOFRqaytXRFVxWExVdkdvNFwvaFNNNHZ4Rm5RSCJ9

Anyway, I think I may stop by on my way out...

Penzeys Spices

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