While not our final destination on this short ride, The Enchanted Olive was definitely a highlight!  A small family-owned and -operated niche shop located just north of Zelienople on Route 19, The Enchanted Olive is an adorable shop anchoring a small plaza also housing a wonderful holistic pet store.

The shop offers an unbelievable array of different oils, such as numerous types of oil made from different varietals of olives, infused olive oils, multiple kinds of sesame or truffle oils, almond and walnut oils, and much more.  You could easily spend the better part of an hour meandering down the rows of oil vats, pouring and tasting (with bread cubes or straight up!) little shot cups of oil.

In addition to the dynamic range of oils for sale, there is also a number of different types of vinegar available.  From traditional white and dark balsamic to a wide variety of infused vinegars, there is a vinegar ready and waiting for just about any potential purpose you can possibly imagine!

You can also peruse the array of home-made pastas and other Mediterranean goodies that await those who make the short trip up from Pittsburgh.  Perfect for preparing for the big meal when the family arrives for the holiday, we strongly recommend you take the half hour drive from downtown soon to stock up!

If you’re going to make the trip, why not make it beautifully scenic day, as we did here, instead of just rambling on up the highway?  There are a ton of other shops to catch your eye along the way, along with numerous breweries and vineyards to tempt your taste buds.

While you’re up that way, I also strongly recommend you head another five minutes north and stop in at the Appalachian Rock Shop for some really cool and unique gift options to consider.

If you’re hungry, the food at the Log Cabin Inn is always excellent, and the deck on the back is the place to be when the weather is nice.  Go in between the normal meal times (for instance, between 1-3PM or after 7PM are good times) if you want to be able to walk right in minimal waiting.

If you’d rather try something a little different, check out ShuBrew in downtown Zelienople for a number of unique beers and a fascinating food menu.  If it’s Italian food you’re craving after spending all that time among the oils, breads, and pasta, Della Terra is right down the road and offers fantastic hand-crafted traditional meals.

As always, please let us know in the comment section of any other places you love to shop, eat, or pick up local brews!