
Image via Flickr by monpetitchouphotography
Burien, Washington, is a Mecca for food lovers, thanks to the great specialty markets that call our town home. Whether you’re looking for cured meat, tea, hand-crafted crafts, or fine chocolate, there are plenty of shops in the area you need to check out and revisit. Improve your kitchen and culinary life by visiting these five best specialty markets in Burien.
Pickled & Preserved Market and Deli
For gourmet foods and interesting items, head to Pickled & Preserved. Pickled peppers, fruit preserves, hot sauce, and plain-old cucumber dill pickles are just some of the tasty items you’ll find at this mini-market and restaurant. If you want to spend lunch here, you’ll find delicious paninis, “power bowls,” and sandwiches that make for a quick meal on the go. Don’t forget the brandied cherries on your way out!
Hans’ Sausage and Delicatessen
If you’re looking for authentic German sausages and cheese for your charcuterie, make a stop at Hans’ Sausage and Delicatessen. You’ll find real, homemade sausages here that will make you wonder why you ever ate the other stuff. You’ll also find great German beers, European wines, and food products of various types. But we show up for the specialty meats, and we will keep doing so for as long as their doors are open.
The Oilerie
Who knew a store that primarily sold olive oil could grow to be such a crowd favorite? The olive oil and balsamic vinegar you’ll find at the Oilerie are made in Italy and shipped to the Oilerie to give them a product you’ll have a difficult time finding in other places. From your extra virgin to hot chili and apple balsamic, you’ll find a wide array of oils and vinegar that will take your cooking to the next level. You’ll also find spices, herb grinders, and more at the Oilerie.
Cascadia Herb’n Tea
For all your tea and herb needs, go to Cascadia Herb’n Tea. You’ll find dozens of herbs you can’t find in supermarkets, and loose tea that will keep you coming back. If you’re not equipped to brew loose tea, they have plenty of kettles, cups, strainers, and anything else you need to perfect your home tea-making experience. If you’re looking for that hard-to-find spice your recipe called for, you’ll find it on Cascadia’s shelves.
Armoire Chocolat
If you’re looking to finish off the fantastic dinner you made with ingredients from these stores with a superb dessert, make sure you take some Armoire Chocolat home with you. This French-style cafe and chocolatier makes unforgettable desserts and fresh pastries every day. Almond croissants, cinnamon pinwheels, danishes, cookies, and chocolates are just a few of the mouth-watering options that line their shelves.
These shops will change the way you think about your food and drink for the better. Explore the world of food at these and the other great stores in town to find your favorites and breathe new life into your recipes.

