‘Tis the season for local markets, crafts fairs and grocery stores bursting with home-grown holiday treats ranging from stocking stuffers to hostess gifts to gourmet sweets and snacks.
Whether you want to gather the goodies yourself or pick out a ready-made gift basket, there’s bound to be something to whet the appetite of any foodie on your gift list. (Don’t forget a little something for yourself!)
We know that point-and-click shopping has taken a bite out of retail. But our gift guide offers a sampling of what the region has to offer, both online and on the road for a taste of old-fashioned holiday shopping.
The best part? Whatever option you choose, you are supporting businesses born and raised in Northeast Ohio.
Humphrey Company
What says Cleveland nostalgia more than Humphrey’s famous candy kisses, popcorn balls and chocolate drizzle? Family-owned and operated since 1897, all popcorn is still grown and processed on their 500-acre farm in Wakeman.
ONLINE: humphreycompany.com
ON THE ROAD: Heinen’s Fine Foods, B.A. Sweetie Candy Company
Brandt’s Candies
Another local sweet spot is Brandt’s Candies, which has been using original family recipes since 1948. Hand-dipped chocolates and their celebrated maple creams are sure to please the sweet tooth on your list.
ONLINE: brandtschocolates.com
ON THE ROAD: 1238 Lost Nation Road, Willoughby
Little Lakewood Pasta Company
Starting out at the Lakewood Farmers’ Market, this small-batch pasta company uses local, sustainable ingredients in its fresh, made-daily penne, fusilli and lasagna. A fun variety of flavors is available, depending on the season.
ONLINE: littlelakewoodpasta.com
ON THE ROAD: 15613 Detroit Avenue, Lakewood
(retail shop open Friday, Saturday, Sunday)
West Side Market
How about a one-stop-shop for everything Cleveland? Started in 1840, the market is home to over 100 vendors housed in an iconic building that has become a Cleveland landmark. Choose from local favorites such as artisan pasta, jams, jellies and honey, plus locally made cheeses, meats for your holiday table and unique gifts.
ONLINE: westsidemarket.org
ON THE ROAD: 1979 West 25th St., Cleveland
Flavor of Ohio
OK, armchair shoppers, this one’s for you. Providing gourmet gift baskets for 27 years, this family-owned business carries everything Ohio, from collections for Browns and Buckeyes fans to soothing spa gifts and local jams and jellies.
ONLINE: flavorohio.com
Lake Erie Pet Food Company
Don’t forget your best friend. For four years, Eric and Julie Huber have been home-delivering natural, locally made food and treats to dogs and cats throughout Cuyahoga County. They just opened a shop in a renovated Ohio City building to better serve our furry friends.
ONLINE: lakeeriepet.com
ON THE ROAD: 4164 Lorain Avenue, Ohio City
Rustbelt Pepper Company
High-quality, simple ingredients flavor the traditional Mediterranean recipes for their roasted pepper relish. Everything is vegan, gluten-free and non-GMO.
ONLINE: rustbeltpepper.com
ON THE ROAD: Breadsmith of Lakewood, Market at Flying Fig
Holmes Mouth-Watering Applesauce
Shaker Heights native Ethan Holmes was just 15 when he launched his company, using his grandfather’s applesauce recipe. Today, the tasty treat is offered in Original, Apple Pie Cinnamon and Strawberry Peach flavors.
ONLINE: holmesapplesauce.com
ON THE ROAD: Many grocery stores including Whole Foods
Sue Botos is a freelance writer from Rocky River who can’t wait to sink her teeth into all the holidays have to offer; just not the after-holiday diet!
