Stumbled upon this little shop while exploring downtown New Albany. I was immediately greeted and…read moreshown around the store. From spices to salts to sugars and teas this place has it all. I had no idea how many types/varieties of sugars and salts existed until today. Every product had a corresponding jar beside it, which you could open to smell (this was really helpful). I ordered a large Lemon and Cherry Tea, it was refreshing. I like that they have sampler sets, which reduce the costs if you were to buy the items individually. The prices are on the higher side but they do advertise their products as "fine spices, herbs, blends, salts, teas". I picked up 1oz of the Crazy Chicken Seasoning and 2oz of the Dragon Fruit Fusion Herbal tea. My partner chose 1.5 oz of Pineapple Sugar, 1.5 oz of cranberry Orange Sugar and pineapple upside down maple syrup 8.45 oz. Our total with my tea came out to $60.43 after tax. While I can't afford to shop here regularly, this place is a perfect stop for someone needing to pick up a gift for any occasion. The shop was organized well and inviting to newbies.

A Lesson in "Local" vs. Franchise: My Experience at The Spice & Tea Exchange…read more I'm writing this not from anger, but from concern for fellow consumers who prioritize supporting truly local businesses and expect quality products backed by genuine customer service. What I Thought I Was Supporting When I visited The Spice & Tea Exchange during their grand opening, I was delighted. The boutique aesthetic, the owner's involvement, the community feel--everything suggested an independent, locally-owned shop. As someone who intentionally supports local businesses over chains, I became a repeat customer, purchased multiple items, and referred others. The Quality Issues I experienced problems with two different teapots: First purchase: A yellow stoneware teapot infuser with a design flaw--a tiny screw that constantly came loose, making the lid crooked and unstable. The store provided a replacement (the glass teapot), which I appreciated. The exchange: I chose this BEAUTIFUL glass teapot infuser as replacement. Within a short time, this teapot cracked while I was washing it in the sink--not dropping it, not exposing it to temperature shock, just routine cleaning. I own numerous glass items--French presses, teapots, bowls--many for years without issue. I've even accidentally dropped glass items that didn't break. Quality glassware does not spontaneously crack during gentle washing. The Customer Service Breakdown August 2025: Since I do not live in New Albany and wasn't sure when I would be able to make it back to the physical location, I sent a detailed email to the New Albany location. No response. October 2025: I contacted corporate through their website. Customer service (Toni) was sympathetic and promised a replacement. However, she stated: "Since our stores are independently owned and operated franchise stores, if you would like a refund or credit, contact the store directly." Three months later: No replacement ever arrived. December 2025 in-person: I explained everything to owner Kellyjean Gettelfinger. She told me "glass breaks" and that their in-store containers also break "for no reason." She said she'd "be the one losing money" if she helped, and asked what I expected her to do. No accommodation was offered--no exchange, store credit, or goodwill gesture despite my being a repeat customer who referred others. The Franchise Reality The Spice & Tea Exchange is a franchise. It may be owned by a local resident, but operates under corporate structure that fundamentally changes the business: Quality Control: The owner likely can't source better products. Franchise agreements typically mandate approved vendors and products--explaining why she knows their containers break but can't change suppliers. Customer Service Limitations: You're caught between franchise owner and corporate--neither takes full responsibility. Corporate says "contact the store," the store says they'll lose money helping you, and you're left with a broken product. Where Your Money Goes: Your money splits between the local owner, franchise fees to corporate, and corporate-mandated suppliers (often out of state)--very different from a Mom and Pop where revenue stays in the community. Decision-Making Authority: Independent owners can take a loss on defective items to preserve relationships. Franchise owners operate within corporate constraints and seem less empowered to prioritize customer satisfaction. What Quality Retailers Do Reputable glassware companies (Pyrex, Bodum, Ball, Le Creuset) stand behind products with warranties. Quality retailers source products they trust, warn customers about limitations, offer guarantees, or stop carrying problematic items. When glass breaks during normal use, it's defective. A responsible retailer addresses this, not dismisses it. For Fellow "Buy Local" Consumers "Locally owned" and "local business" aren't always the same. A franchise may be owned locally and employ local people (so does Walmart), but the business model, decision-making power, and revenue flow differ fundamentally from independent businesses. If supporting truly local businesses matters--where owners have full autonomy, money stays in the community, and customer relationships are prioritized--ask whether a business is independently owned or a franchise. I believed I was supporting a local owner who would stand behind products and value customer relationships. Instead, I encountered corporate constraints without corporate accountability, unresolved quality issues, and dismissive responses to legitimate concerns. I don't write this to attack anyone personally, but because I care about where my money goes and what business practices I'm supporting. I hope this helps others make informed decisions and encourages all businesses to prioritize quality and customer care. Documentation available: Emails from August and October 2025 if needed. I wish I had photos, unfortunately I threw away or gave back what I had.

SmokedBros is Don't go to Walmart for your seasoning/…read morespices... buy from smokedbros. Your mouth will thank you later!

I received my order, and wow! I have tried many spices over the years, but these are an awesome…read moreblend of flavors! I have to say my favorite is the Point Man, definitely going to get more of these to try. The knife is phenomenal, amazingly sharp and looks awesome!

I'm so excited that I got to order from Pinch Spice Market, after following them for a bit and…read morehearing some great word of mouth. Pinch has a website that you can order through, and if you're local to Louisville you can pick up your order at their facility. They don't have a store open to consumers. I wanted to make shaksuka for the first time but needed harissa and ras el hanout spice blends, which I couldn't find at Kroger. Pinch had these for $7 and $8 for 1/4 cup tins. And my order was ready for pick-up within 24 hours. Clear instructions were sent for this, and my husband was able to easily retrieve these for me. These spices are so fragrant, and I loved adding them to my dish. Now I'm looking for other dishes I can make with these. I can't wait until I need more spices, because I will definitely order from Pinch again.

I love this place. I've been ordering from here for a while now. Just got two new spices today…read more They're always fresh! And they carry items I can't find in store.

Love it. Logan Street Market has had a lot of turnover, perhaps the expected amount given its…read morecircumstance. Highly successful businesses have outgrown the market and moved on to standalone businesses. And other shops have fizzled out. But I'm thrilled that Colonel De's has been a mainstay in this spot. Colonel De's is not a big chain, but they are a little one. The original is in Findlay Market in Cincinnati, and as of this writing there's also a satellite across the river in Newport. Colonel De's also does a mail order business, but that's it for offices. And the spices are great. They make a lot of their own blends and they have pretty much all the basics. They are not as cheap as some of the crap you can find at the grocery store, but they are definitely a notch better. And I'm pretty sure they look affordable when compared to some national chains. My favorite aspects, besides the convenience of coming here, include the fact that you can bring your own container, and the experience more generally that the people they've had working here have always been very helpful and approachable. Friendly place, great spices, super convenient, and you can grab an arepa or a bagel or a beer while you're running your errand. Skip the spice aisle at Kroger. Come here and get better stuff.

Located inside Logan Street market, this cute little booth sells herbs and spices…read more They have different areas in their booth, and the spices are labeled accordingly. There are areas for different types of meat, like chicken, pork, beef. There are also soup mixes. And even dip mixes! I have gotten a few spice packets for myself before, and plan to get a gift set as a gift for a dirty Santa. I think it would make a perfect Christmas gift for those who love to cook, or those who generally love to experiment.

Zi Olive continues to be a special place and an opportunity to treat yourself or others. Bottles of…read moreolive oil and vinaigrette start at $25, although you can get small "travel" bottles for around $6. They truly have every flavor profile from sweet to savory that you can think of. Paper cups are available to test the flavors before you commit. Another popular item is honey - several flavors and opportunities to try them. You'll also find some dipping seasonings (for bread), other sauces, and condiments. We opted for the traditional white vinaigrette to pair with an olive oil. Really looking forward to enjoying it on salads or bread. The employee was key in assisting us on finding bottles we would prefer. Small store that packs in a lot of items. Great spot for presents or items to bring to someone hosting a gathering. Plenty of parking since the store shares space with other retail stores and restaurants.

Tired of adulterated grocery store olive oil? If so, its time to head to Zi Olive in the Westport…read moreVillage shopping mall. I was blown away at the variety of balsamic vinegar and olive oils that are available at Zi Olive. I was told they have over 50 varieties of infused olive oil! Self-serve tasting is available for all of the balsamic vinegars and olive oils. The staff were super friendly and helpful, suggesting some interesting flavor combinations. We purchased the extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) with 2 infused oils (blood orange and black cherry) to mix with it for TASTY salad dressings. We also purchased the habanero olive oil which we have really enjoyed when cooking meats. There will be a never-ending combo of oil and vinegar combinations on our salads, breads, and meats. I know exactly where I'm headed when I need a great hostess gift! Thank you Zi Olive!

Holy Smoked Spices!!!! Are you ready to step yo game up in the kitchen?!?!.. I'm here to tell you…read more These spices are Amazing and packed with flavor!.. you can smell and taste the smoky infusion in each spice without overpowering the actual spice itself. I find myself using these more than my regular spices, mixing them together (which I heard they have some new blends out that I can't wait to try).. And the best thing about the spices is a little goes a long way! I purchased the sample pack and I'm already a couple months in.. well, the Smoked Brown Sugar is almost gone!! Lol.. Ohhhhhhh... And you Must try their Shoodie Bread!!!! Freaking Delicious!!!

From the owner: How It All Began Keep it Spicey has the industry leading…read moreGourmet Corn Bread called "Shoodie Bread" which is a combination of my grandmother's recipe along with my wife's grandmother's recipe that we've combined to create a versatile and creamy cornbread that has a patent pending. It's the only cornbread on the planet that is already premixed with all the ingredients added, that can be sautee'd to make griddle cakes on the cook top or baked in the oven without adding any ingredients. Keep it Spicey was founded in 2015. Our products are made of the highest-quality ingredients, and we guarantee to only serve you with the freshest products available in Louisville, KY, Bourbon Country. Our spices are slow smoked in small batches using a combination of hickory wood for boldness, cherry wood for a little sweetness and bourbon staves for more flavor.

I was an early diner and lucky enough to have the chef (his name is Flexx) all to myself. We had a…read morelovely conversation in which he shared with me not only his travels and training to have a great Thai restaurant, but also his passion to share Thai cuisine with everyone. His passion and care for his craft shows through in his cuisine. Flavorful and fresh, it satisfies the pallet and soothes the soul. I had the fresh spring rolls as an appetizer. The presentation was world class and the rolls were incredibly delicious. A spice tray can be requested and encouraged! Try the different jars and experience the heat your way. I ordered the crispy garlic chicken. A traditional Thai dish, except it's done with his own twists and it's delicious. The garlic and basil were present but not overpowering. The flavor and spice combine for a burst of flavor and richness. The chicken crisp and flavorful without being dried and overdone. The entire meal was fresh and delicious. I finished out my Thai experience with Mango sticky rice. You have to see, and taste, this dessert yo believe it. Every place should have a bit of mystery. This is where I leave one for you. Bottom line, do not miss out on Yummi Thai. It's a good place to eat, right here at home.

The restaurant has been sold and, as a result, Yum Mi has lost some of its charm. Mom is no longer…read morein the back. They've rearranged tables to the point of an obstacle course to get to a table. And if folks are waiting for take out, you really have to try to avoid them. The new spring rolls don't come close to the originals. (Compare pictures). Prices are up about $2 across the menu. And portions are significantly smaller. Note new, smaller square plates rather than original (larger) round dishes (check the pictures). While mom used to spice the dishes in the back, now they avoid spice and let you mix in your own. A spice tray provides several options. The food, while prepared differently, still tastes fine. But what really stung was the missing home cooking atmosphere. The chef/owner was sitting by the exit and didn't offer so much as a smile or a thank you as we left. That would never happened with the previous owners.

Great vegan options, the best I have found in Louisville. Nice selection of supplements as well.read more

Rainbow Blossom stocks small candles for my alter and meditation, which was the purpose of my…read morevisit. With only that, it would've been a good visit, but I spent time enjoying the space and reminding myself what it offered. There's really no reason to visit other locations. They aren't the same vibe. While there I spotted several things I'd like to try, from drinks and protein snacks to pizzas and fresh fruit. Even a search through medicines and makeup was fun. We snagged a couple of drinks and jarred pickles as well as a cherry pie smoothie from the blossom bar. Friendly service. Plenty of parking lot spaces. I'd love to spend time here exploring more things and learning about customer favorites.

Has a wide variety of plants for both indoor and outdoors at reasonable prices that you may not…read morefind at other plant nurseries.

I've driven by Shireman's many, many times without stopping, but needing some fall decorative mums…read morefor the yard, we found a great selection here! Alongside the pumpkins, corn stalks and hay bales, that would complete the look at excellent prices. Service was friendly and quick. I wasn't sure if they only accepted cash, but cards are welcome as well. Parking was a breeze as well. I'll have to come back in the spring as I know they have a ton of plants that I'm looking forward to checking out!