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I grew up going to the original Spice House in Wauwatosa Wisconsin. I remember walking into the store as a child and being both overwhelmed and enchanted by the smells and sights. I also remember getting these amazing wooden tea crates (for free!) from them when I got my first apartment. I think I used them for bookshelves.
The original owners of The Spice House were the parents of the current owners of Penzey's. I think The Spice House is still in existence, run by the siblings of Penzey's.

much love to Penzey's.
St Louis, Phialadelphia, and a handful of other cities have retail locations where you can go in to sniff the delights of their whole line. Great way to discover just how great their quality is.

Pittsburgh has a Penzey's in the Strip District, FYI.

Couldn't you have just said "a food lover's dream" rather than make me think about nocturnal emissions? A little over the top...

I also enjoy the Penzey's catalog. I mark off what I want/need to replace for my every 3-4 month trips to the Columbus store.

They do awesome gift packages too.

One of the perks of living/working within 2 blocks of Grand Central's market ... getting to walk past Penzy's at least once at day!

The occasional sassy language is welcomed!

Even though I am able to get to the Grand Central store quite easily, I still sometimes place a mail order for larger orders or gifts. I have to say that besides having some of the best products out there, they have the best customer service. Calling their customer service line recently, I got in touch with a friendly human who was able to take care of my order immediately. Such a refreshing way to run a business in this day and age.

Do ya think we can get one in SFO anytime soon? Anytime we are near Penzey's, we stop and buy up the store. Maybe we should do an order together. ;)

I've never received their catalog, but I currently have 6 Penzey cinnamons in my cupboard, as well as lots of other treasures in bottles, cans and bags bearing their imprint...

I frequent the Spice House location in Chicago. I think it's worth the trip because you can buy spices in small amounts. I've taken all of my foodie friends there when they visit and they all seem to love it.

The pre-packaged sets for BBQ, baking, etc., are great hostess/housewarming gifts.

Dana V., Yes the original little, crowded store in Wauwatosa is still open, and has looked the same for many years-- old, yellowed newspaper articles and recipes taped all over the walls and shelves and numerous handwritten hints and notes about the spices and mixes abound. I go there once a year to purchase poppy seeds and spices for my Christmas baking. The smell when you open the door is amazing! I did not realize how lucky I am to have this store nearby (about a mile from my house). I believe the parents still run the store. (The Mom is always there when I shop.)