This place has an impressive selection of spices. The store is clean, well organized, and easy to browse. Definitely worth checking out if you enjoy cooking or want to try something new! Free parking lot. read more

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After hunting for chili flakes everywhere (hot sauce shops don't really have them), I remembered about this "spice" shop; I never been here before and not sure what kind of spices would be available. I stopped by when they were almost closing and the staff Elizabeth cheerfully greeted me and asked how she could help. She was so helpful! She showed me a bunch of peppers that I would like and this is really helpful... Each one of the label has a scolville unit! So I didn't have to guess which ones are more spicy than others. I came in wanting to buy chili flakes but after smelling the garlic, I had to get them too! This is one of their go-to items and apparently once you try theirs, you're it. You'll never get garlic anywhere else! read more

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The prices are high but so is the quality!! I love my penzey's spices and think they really make a difference in recipes. They have several promotions too where you can get free spice blends or jars if you're subscribed to the newsletter. The staff at the store is always helpful directing me to different parts of the store depending on what spice I need. Parking can be tricky. There's a parking lot but it's almost always full. read more

One of my happy places. The spices here level up week night dinners. Staff is incredibly friendly and warm while also providing a calm shopping experience. Bonus on the cute coloring table for kids. I also appreciate a business that takes a stand. I've also experienced fast shipping online. read more

Love their spices!!!! I usually grab basics at the grocery store, but every so often I'll drive here to stock up on my favorites, like JERK seasoning that I swear by on my salmon and chicken, Vietnamese Cinnamon that has the most amazing flavor -tried other brands and they lacked the aroma, ALL CURRIES (especially the sweet curry), and my daily yummy -Australian crystalized GINGER that's super healthy. I love Penzeys so much that I've served so many people where they always think I'm such a good cook BUT it's really their blends of seasonings. Service was great! They're there to help when you need but won't hover over you as you browse. Store was clean and well organized. You're also able to sniff their samples to determine which you like best. Ample parking outside during the week -definitely tough on Sundays when the Farmers Market is happening nearby. read more

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Love Penzey's! Hillcrest location has a decent size parking lot so that is a plus. The owners and their company philosophy says it all, and we will always support them read more

I found out about Penzey spices by KH in a book and ordered some things from their website. Love the colorful packaging and the spices available are amazing. The order was taken quickly and shipped out promptly. I will now go to Penzey's when I need spices. The website is also easily managed and accessible. read more

We were greeted at the door warmly. When we told her it was our first time, we got an aromatic tour of the store. Each sniffing jar smelled like we were inhaling the best and freshest ingredient. Their spices do not have any preservatives, so there's nothing extra added to take away from the taste. We came at an excellent time and got a bunch of jars to try. Their Dutch cocoa will make the best hot chocolate. I got some smoked paprika to make seafood boil. We also got this spicy Ethiopian pepper mix which we added to mashed potatoes to taste test. It was super yummy. I will be replacing all my spices from here from now on. read more

I love the variety and quality of all the spices, herbs, and blends. The company has been singled out by renowned chefs and America's Test Kitchen, for example. Shopping here is a dream! As an avid home cook, going to the store in person is dangerous (LOL)! The staff is always so friendly and helpful. AND, when shopping online, it's super easy to navigate around the website, as if you're walking around the store in person. The icing on the cake is the easy pick up at the store for online orders. My husband loves the Buttermilk Ranch blend - he uses it on popcorn and fries as well as make a salad dressing. I love the Adobo Seasoning - the smell reminds me of my grandmother's kitchen in NYC. If you sign up for their newsletter, you'll get incredible coupons that can be used in store or online. If you never visited the store or website, stop by and have fun! read more

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Love EVERYTHING about Penzey's! Staff is helpful, spices are high quality. Joining the mailing list will get you crazy deals and discounts. Oh and I LOVE the vanilla sugar!! read more

Penzey's is one of the few non restaurant businesses that I will post on Yelp about because they are an outstanding establishment. The quality and commitment they offer is a rarity in this current age of impersonal and anonymous culture in many businesses out there. I was so excited to receive my recent order (three days earlier than expected, btw) and since their only store in SD is a bit far for me to frequent regularly, would not hesitate to order again in the future. While it's nice to have the convenience of mail order, going to a Penzey's in person is a fun and unique experience that I would recommend. Their spices are incredible and going through their store (or catalog) is like talking a little trip around the world. Love them and their positive message! read more

Penzey's Spices - My order arrived quickly and perfectly. - Herbs & Spices Near Me - San Diego, California

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When I can't make it to the Rude Jerk Chicken restaurant in Perris, CA. I have to make my own jerk chicken because the craving can be off the chart. Soooo I searched high and low looking for jerk seasoning. I couldn't find it, but I was on a mission. If I had to sail to Jamaica to get my seasoning, I would've packed my bags and lathered in sunscreen for my voyage. Yes, it was that imperative for me to have my jerk chicken. While walking around University Ave. I stumbled upon this spice "heaven" and it was amazing when I walked in. I became tongue tied from the excitement of the carousel of spices. They were tastefully placed in stations with the compatibility of their spice family. I felt like moonwalking around the store, but I knew that one misstep could have them dialing 911. So I played it smart, looked at my knees and told them I wasn't going to do anything stupid. I decided to carry on and enjoy my shopping extravaganza. I selected the spices I wanted, but I didn't see the jerk chicken spice. I broke out in a sweat and my inner voice said, "stop, drop, and roll". It was in that moment I remembered that I suffered from hot flashes and it had nothing to do with me not finding the spice. I proceeded looking around the store and asked the clerk if they had the spice. She said yes and showed me where it was. I was so excited that I felt like doing 50 cartwheels, a back flip, and a split. In that moment I told my knees that I love them and would do no harm. This is my " go to" spice store because of the selection and welcoming service. Just flat out awesome read more

Penzey's Spices - Cinnamon sticks - Herbs & Spices Near Me - San Diego, California

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Waste of money. There are much better alternatives to Penzey's! The Spice House, run by a different branch of the Penzey Family, has virtually identical items at better prices. Burlap & Barrel, Spices for Less, and Badia Spices also have a great selection at better prices. read more

If you cook, you really have to check out Penzey's Spices. They have top-quality spices and spice blends, and a selection that can't be beat. All of the employees are friendly and helpful. I highly recommend getting on their email list. They offer lots of freebies and great deals that apply to online or in-person purchases. Their website has coupons, recipes, and other good intel. Thanks, Penzey's! https://www.penzeys.com/ read more

I LOVE this store. I stopped in to see what they had (didn't even know about the political news about them) and i was blown away by the kindness, happiness, and general good nature of the employees. The spices I got are fantastic, but the in store experience makes them special. The woman who helped ring me up gave me a Hug Token because "everyone could use a hug" and that day she couldn't have known how much that touched me. Seriously, go stop by and bring your kindness with you to return theirs because they are amazing humans! read more

I was so excited to discover this place the other day because I like supporting local businesses and I love cooking and baking. It was a lot bigger inside than I'd pictured and the prices were also lower than I'd imagined. Christmas is coming so after looking around, I was getting ready to buy some gifts. A clerk walked by and told me the item I was looking at was on sale. I was pleasantly surprised. She walked back to the register about ten feet away. I noticed a gift set on the same table, and since the item she'd pointed to wasn't marked as being on sale but actually was, I asked her how much the gift set was. "Which one?! We have over 50!!" she snapped. "The one next to these sale items," I said, pointing. "All prices are printed on signs," she said. She apparently didn't pick up on the fact that I was asking because she'd mentioned a sale, but that wasn't even the issue. Her tone after the first question made me feel extremely unwelcome and it was totally uncalled for. I get that she probably gets asked that question over and over, but that is no reason to answer rudely. Control yourself and get over yourself. Also, it was obvious where I was standing and pointing, especially when she'd literally just been right beside me, pointing at a sale item next to the only gift set anywhere close to where I was. Her attitude left me with such a deeply uncomfortable feeling. She clearly didn't want me there so there was no reason to stay. I can't tolerate being spoken to in verbally abusive wqys, so I wouldn't have known what to do if I had another question. I would've been too triggered to ask. I left without buying anything at all. What a truly disconcerting experience after my initial positive impressions! read more

Penzey's has been our primary spice selection for years, and we have a drawer full,of those jars. We especially like the blends which go well with multiple foods, chicken, fish, beef, vegetables, like Ruth Ann's Muskego Avenue, and the Vietnamese Cinnamon can't be beat. We like that there choices in the sizes of jars, in case one wants to try something they don't use frequently. All spices can be ordered online but we are fortunate to have a terrific store on University Avenue in the Hillcrest neighborhood of San Diego. read more

I love all the spices here! They are great quality and really make a difference when I make my pho broth compared to generic spices I get elsewhere. The online ordering is super convenient! read more

I walked into this store intrigued by what might be inside, and I am so happy that I did! What an awesome place!!! They clearly care a lot about spices and seem to sell quality spices and carefully curated spice blends. I love how they have samples where they let you smell and observe the texture of all of the spices they sell. I ended up buying their kosher flaky salt, bbq 3000 blend, and berbere blend! The staff is so friendly and helpful. This place really is such a gem! read more

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This is the best spice store that I have ever visited! I was greeted by the smell of spices and employees as soon as I walked inside. There is a huge variety of fresh spices and dried herbs that'll meet all of your cooking, grilling, and baking needs. I bought Sunny Paris and this seasoning has been amazing on salads and eggs! I will continue using this spice and trying others read more

I have a secret obsession. It's called Penzey's. I have been a big fan for many years. And while I have been seeking out the Penzey's Spice store in every city I go to (we don't have any in the state of Hawaii.), this has become one of my favorites. Why Penzey's? Because they make the very best quality spices and seasonings. And since my cooking is quite amateur, specializing in take-out, I appreciate all the help I can get from quality ingredients... these are so much better than anything one can get in the market. Penzey's constantly turns over their inventory assuring the very best freshness. Favorite include: * Powdered ginger - makes everything taste fresh: soup to gravy. * Chicago steak seasoning - want that aged smokey taste in your steak? * Every curry for different dishes; love that maharajah, roganjosh, balti, sate, singapore... * Foxpoint - delicious on eggs, meat, finishing on savory dishes, Paris - similar to Foxpoint, saltfree * Pepper - Ancho chili, chipotle, berbere, black and white peppers... Why in-store vs online order? While online ordering is convenient especially when you've run out of something, in-store is so much more fun and satisfying. In the stores there are sample spice jars which allow you to see as well as smell the freshness. And why San Diego location? Because of the awesome associates working there. The workers there seem to enjoy what they do and it translates to always great service. Thank you Bonita for taking great care of our group. Thank you for ALL the help in cooking. ...Til next time, cook on! read more

Penzey's Spices - Starter collection of curries - Herbs & Spices Near Me - San Diego, California

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The spices are absolutely the best, plus they have proprietary blends that are outstanding! Fox Point is one of my favorites, and there are other drlicious blends. Also, the employees are extremely helpful. read more

Much mahalo (thank you) to fellow elite Yelper Li Y. for introducing me to this amazing place. Honestly if Penzey's decides to open up in Hawaii you have to contact Li Y. I could feel her excitement as she told me how she uses each product. I was extra lucky to meet Bonita a great sales associate of Penzey's on my first visit. Bonita explained what Penzey's is and walked us through the store and explained the different spices. What: Penzey's is a spice retailer which started in Winsconsin. This is the only location in San Diego. What makes this spice shop unique when you visit is that it has bottles where you smell the products. Plus you are helped by knowledgeable sales associate who have great suggestions on different ways to use the spices. Parking: Many places in Hillcrest you have search for street parking or pay hourly at a lot. Luckily, Penzey's is in a strip mall with free parking. The product: It's fresh, high quality, spices at an affordable price. Customer Service: Exceptional! The Store: The store is spacious. It's well organized. The signs are easy to read. The spices are sectioned off. I can't wait to introduce this place to other people, especially my dad who loves to cook. Thanks again Li Y. read more

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Best store ever. I love to cook and I love spices. Glad I don't have to order it from a catalog and I love smelling everything and looking at all the labels. Really love the double strength vanilla and smoked paprika. I also love all their combo spices, especially the frozen pizza spice. read more

This is the cutest spice shop ever! So many spices and herbs and seasonings to choose from. The displays were the most creative and everything was clearly labeled. They even had sets of gift boxes for different occasions. And they had an old timey kitchen plus fridge for their cinnamon and similar spices collection! Just adorable and so fun. We picked up a hot chocolate mix. They also had cute swag like Love People. Cook them dinner. on towels and magnets. Their marketing is on point. Cashiers were kind and helpful the entire time too. Nice experience in a small local shop during our visit to San Diego! I'd go back for sure next time I need some spices for my next meal. read more

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Penzey's is a spice lover's dream. Helpful associates, huge selection and the blends are the best.

This is one of my favorite "hidden gems" for cooking supplies! Absolute treasure trove of anything and everything related to spices. Salt, pepper, potato bits, ginger, cinnamon, cacao, star anise... it goes on and on! Personally, I think their extra bold black pepper is the best I've ever smelled or tasted in my whole life. I'm talking about their "India Extra Spicy Bold." I roast them in a cast iron skillet and grind it up for my "Cacio e Pepe," and it's INSANELY good. I've had other herbs from them as well, and they are always very aromatic and delicious. The owners are the nicest people, and very helpful. It's clean, super cute, and well organized. Ample parking. If you like to cook *at all,* you need to stop by this place and stock up on the good stuff! read more

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I'd totally give this place 5 stars - but dropped it down to a 4 because of the distance to get to the shop. Also parking is a bit tricky. Sales people are great and shop is really great. read more

I first fell in love with this store about 5 years ago and now this is my go-to place for spices. Penzeys offers a wide range of spices and even has some hard to find items you will not find at a normal store. The quality of the spices are superb to most others I have purchased in thr past. The prices and great and the staff is always friendly and welcoming. Make sure to sign up for their emails to get the latest offers. Offers can include $1, $2 spices as well as free items with a purchase. read more

We were in the store yesterday and Jamie assisted us in locating all the replacement spices I needed, some new ones I wanted to add to our extensive Penzeys collection, and told me about a complimentary spice to take home too! Jamie's experience and knowledge made it a pleasant Penzeys shopping trip. read more

Best spices in the county!!! Great customer services, very good international variety and good prices. read more

Penzeys spices is my go to store for all of my spice needs. I was really bummed when they close the store in the city I live in so every time I'm in San Diego I do come to this one or I order online. I love the different varieties they have and many different Mixtures that you cannot get anywhere else. I love the roasted garlic powder and it is pretty much a staple on anything I cook. Their chili 3000 is really good. I also love their Aleppo pepper. You do not find that many places and I find it much more mild but with a great flavor. I also love that they have many specialty seasonings that I cannot find anywhere else like Galangal or Berber. They also have a great selection of different vanilla's, curries, salt, and pretty much any other seasoning you could need or want to try. Every time I go in I find something new. Definitely sign up for their emails though, because they are great coupons throughout the year for great deals, and even free items. read more

If you cook a lot like I do then you know that a dish is only as good as the ingredients you're putting in it. Spices, are one of the ingredients that make or break a dish. Nobody wants a bland, dusty tasting dish, which can happen if you're using inferior or old spices, two things that Penzy's doesn't offer. What Penzy's does offer is wide variety of spices from around the globe, and they're probably as fresh as they come for buying them in a jar. Sure to make anything you put them in shine. They also have some powdered salad dressing mixes, different mixes to sprinkle on sandwiches, meats, pasta, veggies etc. Basically things you didn't even know you needed until you've tried them. On top of that the employees here couldn't be nicer, and boy do they have spice knowledge! If they're randomly out of something you need, within seconds, they'll point you in the direction of a good substitute. To really take things to the next level, if you join their email list you get coupons pretty much every week for free or discounted spices, so you can try things you normally wouldn't without the worry of breaking the bank. Penzy's is the store I didn't know I needed in my life until it quietly showed up in my neighborhood. I haven't looked back since, and I won't settle from spices from the grocery store anymore! Thanks to Penzy's my already tasty concoctions come out even tastier, and for that I thank them! read more

Now that my kids are grown I don't cook or bake as much but I was still very excited to visit the Penzy's location in San Diego. Mr Penzy writes a great blog on FB and I admire his courage in speaking out. Anyone who seems to care more about his fellow man than making another buck deserves my support. Anyway, the store was nicely laid out and smelled wonderful. The ladies working there were available to answer questions but allowed us to take our time and smell all the spices. Its such a cultural learning experience to see and smell spices you've never used. The spices are bottled or bagged in various sizes so you don't have to buy more than you really want. I bought some new things to try as well as old favorites. I cant wait to go back! read more

I am so happy! I've been ordering my spices online for years but now I live San Diego and can shop in the store! Best spices and wonderful blends! read more

Cute little spice store. Clean, well organized and great customer service. They have a variety of spices and mixes for every type of cuisine. read more

I'm so mad I'm just now finding out about this place!!! What a gem. All the spices you could need! I came in for mulling spices to make some mulled wine on a cold day and left with that and much much more. Not only do they have every spice you could imagine, they have tons of spice mixes for tacos, salads, pasta, dips, meats, everything!! I'm coming here for everything now!! read more

THE best spices, anywhere. Very helpful employees. Great specials. Come during the week when you can find a parking space! read more

I'm a fan of Penzey's. Although I haven't been in the retail store yet, I have placed orders online with my mom and everything we've ordered is wonderful. Their spices are excellent. Not only are they premium, but they come well packaged and labeled. I have also ordered some very nice gift sets over the years for my son's teachers. Every time I've given them as gifts they were so well received. They package the gift sets very nicely. My son, being a lazy kid, would just put a bow on the box and attach a Christmas card. They still looked good though. Their website is pretty well organized and makes it simple enough to navigate and place orders. I love that you can simply just click on the letter of the spice you're looking for. They recently started carrying dried shallots too, which are great for salad dressings. And you can buy the empty jars in any size you need. This is great because I buy spices at the Indian store by my house and they sell them in bags. I've picked up some of the glass jars from Penzey's to store the spices in. You only need to spend $30 to qualify for free shipping, which is pretty simple if you enjoy cooking! read more

Penzey's Spices - This is great stuff. Perfect to add to homemade mac&cheese - Herbs & Spices Near Me - San Diego, California

Every kind of spice you can imagine and many you've never known before are here. The ladies who work here are the kindest, most helpful you could ever find. read more