People on Plains Blog Series – Meet Tara from the Olive Oil Dispensary

We asked a few questions to get to know the business better and hear more about all the fantastic things they have to offer.

Why did you choose Aldershot for your business?  

I was very lucky that my store was located in Aldershot. You see, I bought an existing business (it will be 2 years ago this April 1st) that had relocated to Aldershot from downtown Burlington.

It has been incredible to run a small business in Aldershot. Everyone from customers to other small business owners have been  supportive and encouraging. This is a community where the saying Shop Local is actually a way of life.

What sets you apart from all the rest?

Here at The Olive Oil Dispensary we sell Premium Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Fused and Infused Extra Virgin Olive Oils consisting of the highest quality. All of our Extra Virgin Olive Oils are early harvest crushes. An early harvest crush results in a lower yield but an Extra Virgin Olive Oil that has many more health benefits. 

We also carry the highest quality Dark and White Balsamic Vinegars from Modena, Italy. 

Our balsamics are aged for a minimum of 12 years, with some aged up to 18 years and more. 

There are no additives, preservatives, caramels or sugars added to any of our balsamics. 

We also carry an assortment of other pantry products like local honey, small batched mustards, dairy free and vegan chocolate bars along with gluten-free pastas and sauces. 

What is your specialty product? or service?

Here at The Olive Oil Dispensary our specialty products are our award-winning Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Balsamic vinegars.

What is your specialty service?

Here at The Olive Oil Dispensary our specialty service is that we offer, not only a local store to shop, but we also provide a culinary experience each time you come into The Olive Oil Dispensary. Offering free tasting of all our Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Fused / Infused Extra Virgin Olive Oil, White and Dark Balsamic enhances the shopping experience. The combinations are infinite and so much fun to taste. We also have many more products that are available for tastings. 

We also create wonderful custom made and curated baskets and gifts. For those in a rush we have our Grab and Go section with pre-paired top selling combinations of Olive Oils and Balsamic Vinegars in all price points and sizes. 

What do you love about Aldershot?

There are many things I love about Aldershot. The main thing I love about Aldershot is the people. Everyone seems to be very community oriented. Willing to participate, encourage and support the Aldershot community. 

What is YOUR favourite business to visit in our BIA?

That is a very hard question to answer. There are so many wonderful businesses in Aldershot. 

If I’m looking to purchase some interesting clothes, I head over to A Renaissance Woman. 

When I’m looking for a butcher, I head over to J&G Quality Meats. 

If I’m looking for prepared, homemade, delicious meals I head over to The Platter Company. 

There are so many more wonderful stores for stained glass making, hobbies, comic books, records, knitting. etc. 

Lastly, there are so many fantastic restaurants and take-out options in Aldershot. 

Along with brick and mortar there are also online stores here in Aldershot. 

Leaf and Chick – they design with succulents and only use original photography on their jewelry and giftware. 

Saving Graze is wonderful for beautifully crafted charcuterie boards and boxes.  

What would you like the Aldershot community to know about you and your business?  

The Olive Oil Dispensary is a small, independently owned and operated business which is happy to be part of the Aldershot community. I have always admired communities which support their local small businesses as together we create special neighbourhoods. 

It is so wonderful to be able to share my passion for our products. I am so lucky that so many people understand the health benefits that come from consuming premium Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Balsamic vinegars and are incorporating them into their lifestyle. Plus, it is so much fun swapping recipes, food and drink ideas with our customers and them with each other. 

Tara Lester – The Olive Oil Dispensary
195 Plains Road East

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