Hidden Gem in Huntsville

There is a hidden gem on the west end of Huntsville that is inviting one and all to sample their creations.

One of the region’s most popular brands of homemade delicacies, Muskoka Brand Gourmet welcomes one and all to pop by their retail store at 1 Crescent Road.

Attached to their production facility, the storefront is a lovely place to see what’s new, watch the creations being made, sample some of their dips and sauces, and learn more about the family-owned and operated local business.

“A lot of people can’t believe we supply all of Ontario from our local facility,” says Derek Gravelle, owner of Muskoka Brand Gourmet. “We want everyone to know that we’re here and we’re happy when they stop by for a visit.”

With products being distributed to large grocery chains and warehouse stores throughout the province, their brand is gaining significant recognition. This has led to their shop becoming somewhat of a destination, attracting people to the area.

Gravelle mentions one client they have who picks up several cases for their restaurant, each time they visit. He loves knowing that their business is helping other businesses.

“I told them we can ship it to them, but they love to visit Huntsville and tour the town,” he says. “They’ll enjoy a night out at a pub or restaurant, sleep at a hotel or resort, and then pick up their products on their way home the next day.”

Though they are happy to see people come through their doors, Gravelle and the rest of the team still love to send business to the grocery stores who have supported them from the outset like Bullock’s Your Independent Grocer, and other local retailers.

“Their early support means the world to us,” says Gravelle. “They helped us when we were just launching the brand.”

Kid approved

Andrew Allen, sales and operations manager for Muskoka Brand Gourmet, says they’re committed to building on the amazing dips and sauces already on the market. They listen to a variety of opinions and ideas to make magic happen.

As a family business, even the younger members of their team are involved in the creative process.

“We’re here having fun making things that our family likes,” says Allen. “I have three young kids, and every kid likes ketchup, so we’ve developed a recipe that is kid-approved. Our dill pickle aioli is the same. My daughter wanted a dip that tastes like a Miss Vickie’s chip, so that’s what we strived to do, and she gave the thumbs up on the flavour.”

But, of course, there are plenty of wonderful flavours for older family members to enjoy, including the original garlic dip that made the brand famous. Plus, the Nashville hot sauce is delicious, there are flavoured oils, a solid variety of dips, and much more to delight the palate.

“We also support local artisans who create items like handcrafted wood charcuterie boards, jams, jellies, and more,” explains Allen.

Giving back

Gravelle, Allen, and the whole Muskoka Brand Gourmet family take great pride in giving back to their community whenever they can.

They have been at the forefront in supporting local sports teams and athletes, community events, and non-profit organizations like Christine’s Place with sponsorships and donations.

“Supporting our community is very important to us,” says Gravelle. “We do it in any way we can, including volunteering our time when it’s possible.”

It’s this dedication to their products, their family and friends, and their community that has helped build Muskoka Brand Gourmet into a successful business. Now, don’t forget to stop by and say hi at their Huntsville shop.

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