Local Foodie Gifts Worth Savoring

compiled by Erin Peterson

featured in Spokane Cd'A Living Magazine

For the book lover who can’t get through the season without a cup of something warm, there are some sophisticated picks to please their palette. Roast House Coffee is a winner of international awards and Deb DiBernardo and her First Avenue Coffee team can teach you a thing or two about each blend currently available in one-pound bags, as well as the compostable Fbomb coffee pouches.

Not a coffee drinker? Revival Tea Company has expanded its online sales to a brick-and-mortar operation at 415 W. Main in the location of a former speak-easy. You’ll want to visit the tea room when it opens (right under Sweet Peaks Creamery and get a feel for the variety of products they have available.

Do you have a meat lover in your life? Get them a gift-certificate for USDA inspected local grass-fed beef or lamb from Roots Project Farm. Do they need some ways to spice up the preparation of their dinner? Gift them a rub from Barker BBQ. Colin Barker, a local pitmaster makes several rubs that are professional quality. You’ll have everyone you know asking you for your recipe. It can be your little secret, or you can gift them the guaranteed way to perfect smoked meats.

Is sauce more your style? Booey’s Gourmet has some of the best in town, and a new Vaquero rub can all be found at Kitchen Engine and My Fresh Basket in Spokane. Ms. Dot’s is new to the scene with a killer white barbecue sauce, and it’s trending around Spokane. Dip french fries, put it on a pulled pork sandwich… or drink it from the bottle. I won’t judge.

Locally owned and operated (and the fastest-growing spice company in the United States) Spiceology has something for anyone on your list. They have gift sets with mini versions of their full-sized spice blends so that your gift recipient can try them all before they commit. They also are sporting a new pastry line and popcorn seasoning this season worth checking out.

Does the person you’re buying for have a sweet tooth? Athol Orchard’s apple cider syrup is sure to make Christmas morning pancakes even more fun than you remember, and it can also be found at My Fresh Basket. Coeur d’Alene Canning Company has some really phenomenal jams, jellies and preserves that are made by hand including cranberry jalapeno jam, caramel apple pie jam, pepper butter, salsa and jalapeno heaven. Check them out on Facebook, because you’ll have to purchase them directly from Randy Ellwood himself. It’s worth the effort.

This holiday season, the gift of local treats will make your holidays even brighter - not just because they're phenomenal products, but also because a small business owner in town will be able to celebrate, too.