Kalamazoo Olive Company, a gourmet grocery store that specializes in premium olive oils and vinegars, recently opened a shop on County Road 1 in Dunedin. 

“Olive oil is a $700 billion a year business,” owner James Ryan said. “But this is the only place around where people can get fresh, pressed oils.”

Ryan's store is the second location for the St. Petersburg-based company, which originally opened in 2010 on Central Avenue. He imports olive oils from all over the world, including Italy, Chile, Argentina and Venezuela.

Ryan claims his oils and vinegars are better for you because they are “unadultered," or free from additives, flavorings and secondary oils found in most store bought brands, which can sit on shelves for up to two years before they are sold. 

"You wouldn't drink orange juice that's been on the shelf for two years, would you?" Ryan asks.

He says his products typically make it from “tree to table” in a couple months, and every oil is meticulously tracked from its origin all the way to the shop to ensure they have not been tampered. 

In addition to oils and vinegars, Kalamazoo sells imported pastas, bruschetta, dips, snacks and items such as cutting boards and serving dishes. 

Ryan, who firmly supports local businesses and also sells products from area companies, plans on having a couple private opening events in the next few weeks before hosting a public grand opening on Saturday, Aug. 25.

During the grand opening there will be food demos from Chef John Lewis, complimentary Bloody Marys in the morning and free gifts with every purchase. 

Want to Go?

• Kalamazoo Oil Company, 1232 County Road 1 (Independence Square Plaza)
• Phone: 727-216-6288
• Hours: Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Sunday and Monday, closed.