A trip to the grocery store can now include a bite to eat or a relaxing coffee break thanks to the latest addition to Saanich’s Root Cellar.
The Coffee Project opened earlier this month at the popular fixture on the corner of McKenzie and Blenkinsop, offering locally roasted Discovery Coffee as well as Jaga Silk and Silk Road teas in addition to lunch and snack options. Root Cellar co-owner Daisy Orser describes a sandwich of house roasted orange and fennel pork loin with kimchi, garlic aioli and arugula, or a soba noodle salad with bok choy and house marinated mushrooms.
“We have been overwhelmed by requests and suggestions for this space and as a small business we are thankful to have the opportunity to really listen and give our customers what they want,” said Orser. “Pop in for a locally roasted coffee and a wholesome lunch to go, on your way to work or enjoy a brew and a sweet treat while you shop – often to the sound of live local music in store.”
The Coffee Project is just the latest expansion for the Root Cellar, which has grown from just 4,500 square feet when it opened in 2008 to an 11,000 square foot retail space which includes the Island’s largest selection of local produce, a full-service butcher and deli, an extensive bulk foods department, boutique floral and garden market, artisanal grocery products, locally baked goods and dairy products.
The Root Cellar’s loyalty to local farmers and commitment to their community is reflected in every aspect of their new space, from the locally made Yonni’s donuts and giant delicious Sidney scones to the compostable cutlery.
“We are proud of our deep roots in the community and see this expansion as an opportunity to strengthen our relationship with our customers, give them a little treat to look forward to while they shop or to bring home to their families,” said Orser.