Old Town Oil

There was a brief allusion to this shop on the recent truffle oil thread, but my wife and I had such a pleasurable experience there this weekend that I thought it deserved its own thread. We were killing some time in Old Town waiting for our showtime at Piper's Alley when we happened upon Old Town Oil. We learned later that they've been open for four months now.

I know that there have been a few specialty olive oil/vinegar stores that have opened in the last few years. I'm certainly no expert on the subject and I don't have much experience at the other establishments, but I can't imagine that they are more friendly or eager to please than Old Town Oil. Every oil and vinegar is available for tasting, and they offer a nice variety of infused olive oils and balsamic vinegars. Staff members were enthusiastically mixing various vinaigrettes for us--blood orange olive oil/tangerine balsamic; walnut oil/red apple balsamic; Meyer lemon olive oil/oregano white balsamic. Lots of great flavors.

They have a website which will supply much a more thorough picture of what they offer. I just wanted to share our delightful experience with the board. Combined with a visit to the Spice House just a few doors south, it makes for a rather flavorful little outing.

Old Town Oil
1520 N Wells
312-787-9595
www.oldtownoil.com

Old Town Oil - that's the name of the place! (I was blanking on it over at the truffle oil thread.) Thanks for your wonderful review.

tapler wrote:Combined with a visit to the Spice House just a few doors south, it makes for a rather flavorful little outing.

My typical visit to Spice House Wells is rushed due to the parking situation. Today, for the first time in years, I found a legal spot which afforded me a chance to check out Oil Town Oil. Tapler hit nail on the head "friendly, eager to please" though I'd add knowledgeable to the mix.

Well staffed I arrived in advance of one of the culinary tours trundling up and down Wells Street, tasted 7-8 oils and a few balsamic vinegars, never felt rushed and was even encouraged to try additional items. In general I am not a fan of flavored olive oil, typically harsh, out of balance with subtle to dominate not-of-nature tones, Old Town Oil's flavored oils are infused when the oil is pressed resulting in aromatic well balanced flavor, punchy harrissa, earthy mushroom & sage and my favorite Tuscan herb.

White, traditional and flavored balsamic vinegars as well. Of the flavors tried I liked the subtle fig and assertively fruity Red Apple.

Upscale minimalist interior, focused products, friendly knowledgeable staff, quality products. The oils, while not inexpensive, are meant to be used sparingly and are priced lower than I've seen in culinary emporiums for similar seeming products.

Enjoy,
Gary