Do you consider yourself a “foodie”? Do you enjoy finding new and unique gourmet food items and culinary tools? Then it’s time for you to go shopping in downtown Hot Springs! Start on the north end of Central Ave. at Evilo Oils and Vinegars. Taste test your way around the store, sampling the numerous different varieties of olive oils and vinegars they offer. They also feature pairings available for taste testing. Each item also has a list of suggested servings to give you an idea of how to use it. Oils and vinegars can be purchased in 50 ml, 200 ml, or 500 ml bottles. We enjoy buying the smaller bottles to take home and sample and then we have an excuse to return and purchase a larger bottle of the ones we like! (Insider tip: meat eaters must try the hickory balsamic vinegar – and do yourself a favor by purchasing the LARGE bottle.) If you can’t make it back to Hot Springs by the time you’ve run out, they do offer the option to order online as well.
After you’ve chosen the perfect bottles, stop next door at their sister store, Fat Bottomed Girls Cupcakes. Need we say more? Once you’ve satisfied your sweet tooth, continue south on Central Ave. to The Savory Pantry. Shop and taste your way around the gourmet food and gift items. Purchase gift baskets for friends and family, or find those one of a kind items for yourself. You’ll find grilling sauces, jams, honeys, hors d’oeuvres, pastas, and so much more! You can even purchase an “Edible Arkansas” gift basket filled with the best specialty foods from the state to remember your vacation to the Natural State!
Once your bags are filled with edible goodness, you may be ready to sit down with a cup of coffee or maybe lunch. Hop in your car, take a right on Ouachita Ave., and stop at The Culinary District, just across the street from the Garland County Courthouse. Relax with a drink from the coffee bar, or enjoy a quick lunch. The cafe menu includes salads, soup of the day, quiche of the day, and a variety of sandwiches. Being a Wisconsin native, Bob was skeptical when he saw savory bratwurst on the menu, but we can both report that it is just as good as the ones served “Up North.” Ingredients in the cafe are also available for sale in the store. Once lunch is over, take the time to stroll through the aisles. They offer a wide variety of hard to find and unusual kitchen tools as well as restaurant supplies. A nice selection of gift items are also available, along with unique food items. Their spice racks are always a treat to browse and try something new. If you know a Razorback fan, there is an Arkansas gift section as well.
After a full day of epicurean delights, return to Tiffany’s Bed and Breakfast for a restful night’s sleep. In the morning, we’ll treat you to our own culinary talents at “Breakfast at Tiffany’s.” We enjoy sharing recipes and we’re always curious about new items our guests find after a day of culinary shopping!