DixieDining.com :: Essential Food Sources

Adluh Flour - Columbia, SC (Added February, 2004)
Operational historic mill and museum with a unique museum store; Mon-Thurs: 7:30am-5pm Fri: 7:30am-3pm; 804 1/2 Gervais Street; 803-779-2460; www.adluh.com ; Jack Edgerton, President

Allegro Hickory Smoked Marinade - Paris, TN (Added September, 2007)
731 642-6113; www.allegromarinade.com

Allen's Canned Goods - Siloam Springs, AR
(PO Box 250, 72761) Order by the case; Allen's sells okra, rutabagas, kale, collards, poke salet greens, yams, purple hull peas, and more. Visit their web site at www.allencanning.com.

Angelo Brocato's Ice Cream - New Orleans, LA (Added November,2005)
( 214 N. Carrollton Avenue; 504 486-1465) Legendary ice cream (try the spumoni), Italian pastries (can you say canoli???), and more; mangia on the web at www.angelobrocatoicecream.com; Hurricane Katrina knocked their production off line, but they will most certainly be back stronger than ever. Long live Brocatos!

Angostura Bitters (Added February, 2005)
These aromatic bitters, produced for decades in the Caribbean, are essential in cocktails (like the "Old Fashioned") and many recipes. Learn more at www.angostura.com ; click on the recipe bar (they spell it "receipts") for some tasty cooking tips.

Atkinson Candy Company - Lufkin, TX (Added October, 2002)
A family tradition of making tasty candy since 1932. Located in Lufkin, Texas, the company is known worldwide for its fine quality candy, including some of the best peanut butter and peppermint candies available. "Naturally, we're Texas proud," says current President Eric Atkinson, "but our candy is sold all over the world." Our favorite is the delicious Chick-O-Stick, a crunchy, peanutty treat that is dusted with coconut flakes --- awesome! Learn more about the history of Chick-O-Stick and other Atkinson candies at www.atkinsoncandy.com.

B & B Better Burning Charcoal - Weimar, TX
This Texas-based company makes charcoal from Oak, Mesquite, and other woods. Call them at 1-877-725-8815 or visit their web site at www.bbcharcoal.com.

Barq's Root Beer - Biloxi, MS
(PO Box 1278, 39533; 601 432-7001) Barq's is now available in most parts of the US; if you can't find it, order a case from the source; Barq's has been quenching thirsts since the 1890s. Visit their web site at www.barqs.com.

Bayou Bounty Seafood - Boutte, LA (Added May, 2005)
(985 785-1895; www.bayoubountyseafood.com) Big, tasty crawdads shipped straight to your home; give them a try; highly recommended by The Wall Street Journal ... yup, that Wall Street Journal! Who knew they were into mudbugs???

BBQ Woods (Added July, 2005)
Order hickory, maple, cherry and others at www.bbqwoods.com.

Bedford Cheese - Shelbyville, TN (Added November, 2005)
C call them at 800 264-0115 or take a sniff on line at www.bedfordcheese.com.

Benne Wafers - Savannah, GA
(PO Box 13086, 31406-0086; 912 355-1716) The Byrd Cookie Company has been baking these tasty, bite-sized treats since 1924. Benne seeds are more widely known as sesame seeds. Byrd also makes a key lime cookie and a rather good cheese straw. Visit their web site at www.byrdcookiecompany.com.

Big Green Egg Grills (Added July, 2005)
These babies are great; the grills are egg shaped, ceramic, and they cook at temps up to 750 degrees; call them at 404 321-4658 or purchase via the internet at www.biggreenegg.com; yes, they are indeed green ... but it's a tasteful dark green.

Bland Farms Sweet Vidalia Onions - Glennville, GA
(PO Box 506, 30427-0506; 800-vidalia) Call for a free color catalog; order in shipments of 10, 25 or 50 lbs. These are the best onions on Earth! Visit their web site at www.blandfarms.com.

Blenheim's Ginger Ale - Hamer, SC (Added December, 2003)
(PO Box 452, 29547) This one of a kind ginger ale with a bite comes either mild or hot. Both will set you free! Very hard to find outside of South Carolina. The mineral springs were discovered in 1781 by James Spears, a Whig, who was trying to escape Tory troops. According to legend, Mr. Spears lost a shoe in a water hole. When he returned to retrieve his shoe, he tasted the water and noticed its strong mineral content. Word of the spring spread and soon people were coming to taste the cool refreshing water. Several wealthy plantation owners built summer homes in the vicinity of the springs. In the late 1800's Dr. C. R. May advised his patients with stomach problems to drink the mineral water. When these patients complained about the strong taste of the mineral water, Dr. May added Jamaican Ginger to it. In 1903, Dr. May and A. J. Matheson opened the Blenheim Bottling Company. The building which houses the bottling works today was constructed in 1920.

Blue Crab Bay Company (Added May, 2004)
Tastes and Traditions of the Chesapeake; check out their Spicy Bloody Mary Mixer; www.bluecrabbay.com.

Blue Plate Sandwich Spread - Louisiana (Added September, 2005)
Made by the fine folks at Luzianne; this is the closest thing you'll find to what some folks down South call "Comeback Sauce;" this blend is indeed tasty, although it is certainly not low cal or low fat; try it on hamburgers or turkey sandwiches; key ingredients are mayo, pickle relish and spices; think a thick, spreadable Thousand Island dressing and you're on the right track; try some at www.cajunsupermarket.com.

Boscoli's Olive Salad - Kenner, LA (Added October, 2002)
When trying to duplicate a New Orleans-made Muffaletta sandwich at home, this stuff is vital to your success; visit them online at www.boscoli.com or stop by 2254 Greenwood St., Kenner, LA 70062; the Boscoli crew can be reached by phone at 504-469-5500.

Boykin Mill - Boykin, SC (Added February, 2004)
(73 Boykin Mill Rd; 803-432-2786) Corn Meal & Grits.

Braswells Specialty Foods - Statesboro (Added March, 2002)
Jams, Jellies, Sauces, etc.; check them out at www.braswells.com.

Bush Brothers and Company - Knoxville, TN
(PO Box 52330, Dept. C, 37950-2330) Canned beans and vegetables. Visit their web site at www.bushbeans.com.

Caf� du Monde Coffee and Beignet Mix - New Orleans, LA
(1039 Decatur Street, 70116; 504 581-2914) Chicory laced coffee, beignet mix, and other New Orleans and cajun specialties. Bring home a little piece of the French Quarter with these authentic New Orleans staples. 1 800 772-2927. Visit their web site at www.cafedumonde.com.

Cajun Power Garlic Sauce - Abbeville, LA (Added April, 2004)
(10218 LA Highway 82, 70510; Toll Free 877 876-8748) We love their Original Garlic Sauce; it's best described as a garlic-laden cross between hot sauce (but not fiery hot) and vinegar based bbq sauce; Cajun Chef Caro is the creator of all Cajun Power products; Cajun Power has been manufacturing quality sauces and food products for over 25 years; these products are absolutely 100% pure Cajun; you will not find the hottest of sauces here; only gourmet sauces and products packed with flavor to enhance any meal on your table; they use squeezed filtered garlic in most products; we first discovered this sauce at Cajun Broilers in Hot Springs, AR; it's great mixed with ketchup or cocktail sauce; try it with french fries or fried shrimp --- deee-lish! Check 'em out on the web at www.cajunpowersauce.com.

The Caramel Factory - Boyle, MS (Added May, 2005)
(34 Dunn Road; 888 818-9310; www.caramelfactory.com) If you're craving an authentic caramel cake and don't have time to make homemade icing, this is your next best alternative; this stuff is delicious ... you can tell it's made with lots of love (and sugar!).

Carolina Food Pros - Charleston, SC (Added February, 2004)
(PO Box 22286; 843 723-3366 0r 877-SCTASTE) Tastefully done SC gift baskets featuring many of the states culinary treasures; also offering interesting culinary tours led by Amanda Dew Manning, a local food expert and company President; check them out online at www.carolinafoodpros.com.

Carolina Plantation Rice - Darlington, SC (Added January, 2004)
www.carolinaplantationrice.com - Some of the very best aromatic rice money can buy!

Central Grocery - New Orleans, LA
Home of the world's best muffaletta sandwich; you can order a few sandwiches or some of their world famous olive spread.

Chattanooga Moon Pies - Chattanooga, TN
(PO Box 111, 37401; 800 251-3404) Moon pies are available in chocolate, vanilla, banana, or coconut. These pies are a popular Mardi Gras throw along the Gulf Coast. Visit their web site at www.moonpie.com.

Cheerwine - Salisbury, NC
(PO Box 697, 28145-0697; 704 637-5881) Bottled since 1917, Cheerwine tastes a bit like a cherry coke, and a bit like Dr. Pepper. A uniquely satisfying regional soft drink. Visit their web site at www.cheerwine.com.

Chitlin Market (Added December, 2001)
Yes, chitlins for the cyber generation are available at www.chitlinmarket.com. These chitlins come fully cleaned and highly recommended by folks like Jesse Jackson and baseball's Dwight "Doc" Gooden.

Circle Z Farm - Foxworth, MS (Added October, 2004)
Great muscadine grape syrup that is simply delicious with waffles, pancakes, etc.; call them at 601 731-1606 or order at www.circlezfarm.com; this syrup is not super thick and is almost pink in color; a unique flavor worth seeking out!

Claxton Fruit Cake - Claxton, GA
(PO Box 367, 30417-9990; 912 739-3441) The town of Claxton, GA bills itself as the "fruitcake capital of the world." Order a 3 or 5 pound version by mail. Visit their web site at www.claxtonfruitcake.com.

Comeaux's - Lafayette, LA
(2807 Kaliste Saloon Road, 70508 – 800 323-2492) Boudin, cracklin, seafood; ships anywhere in the USA; operated by Ray and Sonja Comeaux. Visit their web site at www.comeaux.com.

Cora's Cake In A Jar - Natchez (Added February, 2003)
Cora's Cake in a Jar - Natchez, Mississippi; find Cora's unusually packaged creations online at
www.corascakes.com; flavors include Mississippi Mud Fudge, Natchez Pecan Cake and Coconut Pound Cake; reach Cora's by phone at 1-800-524-6264.

Cushman Fruit Company (Added December, 2001)
Florida citrus direct to your home. View their website at www.honeybell.com.

Dale's Seasoning - Birmingham, AL (Added November, 2001)
Made in Birmingham, Alabama since 1946; Originally the "house marinade" at Dale's Cellar Restaurant; the seasoning (a blend of soy sauce, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, etc) goes great with beef, chicken or pork. Check out their web site at www.dalesseasoning.com.

Della Gourmet Rice - Brinkley, AR (Added April, 2004)
(1000 West 1st Street, 72021; 800 467-1233) Originally grown in India, this gourmet aromatic rice is now cultivated in and around Brinkley, Arkansas (hometown of Big Band and Swing legend Louis Jordan); we purchased the rice in a 2 lb. bag at a rustic old country store just steps from Jordan's boyhood home (or what is left of it!); we like the Basmati variety, which is quite similar to Jasmine rice of the Orient; this is some of the best rice still grown in the Mississippi Delta region. Web site: www.dellarice.com.

Delta Blues Iced Tea (Added OCtober, 2006)
(800 203-8779; www.deltabluesicedtea.com) Deep South Sweet Tea Punch, spearmint infused tea, and more. "What is Tea Punch? Since pre-Revolutionary War, Colonial Americans mixed & fixed whatever local flavors were at hand-herbal infusions, pine needles, fruit skins, and roots into wine and hard ciders. Tea punch bowls were a favorite at weddings and society gatherings. By 1888, warmed punches were ladled into cups filled with bourbon soaked sugar cubes. These recipes remain today and are closely guarded secrets."

Delta Grind Corn Meal - Oxford, MS (Added November, 2003)
Corn meal and grits ground the old-fashioned way!

Dixie Crystals Pure Cane Sugar (Added November, 2005)
Making things sweet since 1917; www.dixiecrystals.com.

Dr. Enuf Soft Drink - Johnson City, TN
"Enuf is Enough!" is one of the slogans for this regional lemon lime beverage; check out their web site at www.drenuf.com or give the doc a ring at 423.928.2541; they've been boosting folks' energy since 1949!

Duke's Mayonnaise - Richmond, VA (Added November, 2001)
Duke's is manufactured by CF Sauer Company in Richmond, Virginia; they make other fine food products as well, including a pretty tangy BBQ sauce; call them at 800-688-5676 or visit them online at www.cfsauer.com.

Edward's Country Ham (S. Wallace Edwards & Sons) - Surry, VA
(PO Box 25, 23883; 800 222-4267) Edward's is one of the more prominent names in the country ham world; taste one of their hams and you'll know why; free mail order catalog. (www.virginiatraditions.com).

Evelyn's Pralines - Abbeville, LA
(Mrs. Edward LeBlanc, 209 Chevis Ctreet, 70510) These are some of the best pralines available via mail order. Yes, they are incredibly rich and sweet … but who cares? They taste sooooo good!

Mrs. Fearnow's Brunswick Stew - Mechanicsville, VA
(800 LOVSTEW) This is the best canned brunswick stew you will find anywhere; order up a case or two, you'll go through it fast! Visit their web site at www.lov-stew.com.

Gazins - New Orleans, LA
(2910 Toulouse Street, New Orleans, LA 70179; 800 262-6410) Cajun and creole gourmet items; king cakes, chow, chow, mixes etc. Visit their web site at www.gazins.com.

Georgia Honey - Perry, GA (Added January, 2004)
www.georgiahoney.com - Fine gourmet honeys from the Peach State; try the Tupelo Honey!

Glory Foods - Columbus, OH (Added April, 2004)
(PO Box 328948, 43232; 614 252-2042) Canned and frozen Southern style veggies, cornbread mixes, hot sauce, pepper vinegar and more; in business since 1992, this Ohio-based company has struck a chord with its well seasoned canned goods; try the Smoked Turkey Collard Greens. Check 'em out online at www.gloryfoods.com.

Goo Goo Clusters - Nashville, TN
(Standard Candy Company, PO Box 101025, 37210; 615 889-6360) Often called the south's favorite candy, Goo Goo's have been a major sponsor of the Grand Ole Opry for years. Standard also makes the popular King Leo brand stick candy. Visit their web site at www.googoo.com.

Gracie's Garden Pickles - Franklin, VA (Added December, 2005)
Call them at 757 562-3300; choose from sweet cucumber slices, sweet watermelon rind, or the "Commonwealth Chutney" composed of apples, peanuts, raisins and other goodies; also available via our friends at www.virginiatraditions.com.

Gwaltney of Smithfield - Smithfield, VA
(PO Box 489, 23430; 800 678-0770) Perhaps the most recognizable name in the country ham wars and with good reason; their first-rate products are available mail order.

Hale Groves --- Wabasso, FL (Added December, 2003)
(800 289-4253) www.halegroves.com; fresh Florida Citrus Fruit shipped to your front door; don't you dare miss out on their delicious Honeybell Tangelos, a seasonal treat available each January whille supplies last.

Ham I Am - Plano, Texas (Added February, 2004)
(320 Wood Lake Drive; 800 742-6426) www.hamiam.com ; pick up a 4 pound pail of cooking lard for $8.80; many other meat products are also offered.

Harold Ensley Fish Fry Mix - Rogers, AR
(War Eagle Mill, Route 5, Box 411, 72756; 501 789-5343) Ensley, a locally famous fisherman and tv personality, has created a very tasty coating mix for fried seafood; gift boxes available.

Hilton Brand Oyster Stew - Bedford, VA (Added October, 2002)
A fine canned Oyster Stew from Bedford, Virginia. This company also makes a dandy She-Crab Soup under the Harris Brand.

Hot Damn, Tamales! (Added December, 2001)
This Texas-based firm creates terrific vegetarian tamales. Call 888-385-0125 or go to www.hotdamntamales.com.

Johnny Harris BBQ Sauce - Savannah, GA
(2801 Wicklow Wtreet, 31404; 912 354-8828) Johnny's award winning sauce is hard to beat. Most folks order 6 bottles at a time. Visit their web site at www.johnnyharris.com.

Ison's Nursery & Vineyards - Brooks, GA (Added September, 2007)
6855 Newnan Road (GA Highway 16); 800-733-0324; Southern Muscadine Grapes!

Jacob's World Famous Andouille Sausage - LaPlace, LA (Added July, 2005)
(985 652-9080 or online at www.cajunsausage.com) Company started making sausage way back in 1928; meats are smoked over aged pecan wood; try the andouille or the tasso (smoked and fully seasoned pork) ... you cannot go wrong with either one; Jacob's was even featured in Forbes magazine in June 2005!

Joe's Stone Crabs - Miami, FL
(11 Washington Avenue, 800 780-CRAB) Call for a free brochure; these crabs are not cheap, but dipped in Joe's mustard sauce they are a taste treat that is truly unforgettable! Visit their web site at www.joesstonecrab.com.

Kary's Gumbo Roux - Ville Platte, LA
Can be purchased at www.foodlocker.com.

Key West Seafood - Key West
www.keywestseafood.com - Featuring delicious treasures from the sea, as well as some pretty tasty Key Lime Pie!

Kim's Pork Rinds and Cracklins - Clarksdale, MS
(417 Third Street, 38614; 662 627-2389) Kim Wong's Cracklins are perfect for baking into your favorite cornbread mix. The pork rinds are shipped to devotees all over the U.S.

Konriko Rice - New Iberia, LA (Added October, 2004)
(800 551-3245) Konriko is an acronym for the Conrad Rice Company. This is America's Oldest Working Rice Mill - dating all the way back to 1912. Learn more at www.conradricemill.com.

Kudzu Bakery - Georegtown, SC (Added September, 2005)
(714 Front Street; 843 527-7844) Excellent preserves and jellies, delicious pies (try the peach or lemon chess), and mouth watering cakes including a superb red velvet cake; the almond lace cookies are simply awesome; you'll also find some mighty fine pimento cheese and a good selection of frozen meats (tasso and andouille to name a couple); really nice folks ... good coffee too! Much like it's namesake vine, this place will surely grow on you.

Layfield Farms - St. Matthews, SC (Added February, 2004)
(Route 1, Box 505, 803 874-4853) old fashioned cane syrup.

Lazy Magnolia Brewing - Kiln, MS (Added October, 2006)
(www.lazymagnolia.com) "Founded in September of 2003, Lazy Magnolia is Mississippi's first Brewery offering locally brewed beer to Mississippians and visitors to our state at all of their favorite restaurants. Located in the Bootleg capital of Mississippi, we break with tradition by offering legal brew to our customers."

Lee's Sausage Co., Inc. - Orangeburg, SC (Added February, 2004)
(1054 Neeses Highway; 803-534-5517) Famous for their delicious Onion Sausage, which is served in many fine eateries throughout the state of SC.

Leidenheimer Bakery - New Orleans, LA (Added November, 2005)
(1501 Simon Bolivar Avenue; 800 259-9099) This terrific German bakery was founded in 1896; they supply perhaps the finest po-boy bread in all of New Orleans; Sysco Foods carries Leidenheimer breads and distribute them throughout the South; you can almost smell the loaves baking at www.leidenheimer.com.

Lillie's of Charleston - Charleston, SC (Added January, 2004)
www.lilliesofcharleston.com - BBQ sauces and other Gullah treats from the SC Lowcountry.

Lodge Manufacturing Company - South Pittsburgh, TN (Added October, 2002)
Makers of fine cast-iron skillets and other cookware. Based in South Pittsburgh, Tennessee, they can be visited online at www.lodgemfg.com or call them at 423 837-7181.

Louisiana Crawfish (Added December, 2003)
(www.lacrawfish.com) One of the few mail order sources for the real deal - Louisiana Crawfish; don't be fooled by less expensive imported crawfish from the Orient; these babies simply taste better --- hands down; do yourself a favor and go to http://www.southernfoodways.com/fea_crawfish.shtml to find out why; hats off to our friends at the SFA for this insightful little piece of journalism!

Loveless Hams and Jams - Nashville, TN
(Route 5, Highway 100, 37221; 615 646-0067) Their hams and sausage products are superb, but please don't miss the fabulous jams and jellies which are served up each morning at the famous Loveless Caf�. We love the blackberry or peach preserves. Visit their web site at www.lovelesscafe.com.

McCall Farms Vegetables - Effingham, SC (Added October, 2002)
For ever 150 years, McCall Farms have produced fine canned vegetables and other down home produce. Our favorite product is their Sunshine Brand Pickled Peaches. Look for their Margaret Holmes Brand products in stores all over the South - greens, beans, okra, boiled peanuts, and more. They have just added a canned "Hoppin' John" product. Check them out online at www.mccallfarms.com.

Maeker's Country Sausage - Shiner (Added March, 2008)
PO Box 951; 512 594-2172

Mack's Livermush & Meats - Shelby, NC (Added August, 2006)
(6126 McKee Road; 704 434-6188)

Makeda's Homemade Butter Cookies - Memphis, TN (Added August, 2005)
(2370 Airways Boulevard; 901 745-2667) friendly owners Maurice and Pam Hill have been baking 'em up since 1999; only quality ingredients are used (100% butter, Domino sugar, Gold Medal Flour, Ouaker Oats, Peter Pan Peanut Butter, Sun Maid Raisins, etc) and you can indeed taste the difference; you will be hard pressed to make up your mind when you enter their modest storefront in South Memphis; my first choice was the Iced Oatmeal and I wasn't disappointed; give them a try ... these made with love cookies are "like butter, baby!"

Mamie's Famous Cheese Wafers - Mobile, AL (Added September, 2007)
www.mamieswafers.com

Marshall Biscuit Company - Saraland, AL (Added July, 2002)
Great Old-Fashioned Style Buttermilk Biscuits and Rolls --- "Better than Homemade;" serving the South since 1924; call 800 368-9811 for more information.

Martha White Flour (Added October, 2003)
www.marthawhite.com; a Southern tradition for decades!

Maurice's Gourmet BBQ - West Columbia, SC
(PO Box 6847, 29171; 1-800-MAURICE) Lean ham BBQ and South Carolina mustard-based sauce available. Visit their web site at www.mauricesbbq.com.

Mauthe's Creole Ice Cream - McComb, MS (Added November, 2005)
They also make a good cream cheese for your next cheesecake; you can find them at the Crescent City Farmers Market in New Orleans or on line at www.mauthescreolecreamcheese.com; ask for proprietor Kenny Mauthe.

Merritt Pecan Company - Weston, GA (Added November, 2005)
( 4051 US 520; 800 762-9152) www.merritt-pecan.com; shelled pecans, divinity, pralines, brittle and more; stop by their retail store when traveling thru Weston.

Millican Pecan Company - San Saba, TX (Added November, 2005)
(1101 Wallace Street; 866 484-6358) www.pecancompany.com; you can tell by their web address that they have been around for a while; founded in 1880, Millican's early customers included Queen Victoria of Great Britain. Brilliant!

Mingo River Pecan Company - Florence, SC (Added February, 2004)
800 440-6442

Mississippi Cheese Straw Factory - Yazoo City, MS (Added November, 2003)
www.mscheesestraws.com ; call 800 530-7496; varieties include Cheese Straws, Lemon Straws, Peanut Butter Straws, Cinnamon Pecan Straws, Chipotle Straws, and chocolate Mississippi Mudpuppies!

Moonlite BBQ - Owensboro, KY
(2708 Parrish Avenue, 42301; 502 684-8143) Pick up some chopped BBQ mutton and some of the Moonlite's famous thick and spicy BBQ sauce. Visit their web site at www.moonlite.com.

Mount Olive Pickles - Mount Olive, NC
Visit their web site at www.mtolivepickles.com.

Mrs. Renfro's Salsas - Fort Worth, TX (Added April, 2004)
(write to Box 321, 76101; 817 336-3849) Texas-made salsas with flavors like Raspberry Chipotle, Black Bean, Habanero, Peach and many others; they also whip up a tasty Chow Chow (a Southern relish), Green Tomato Pickles and Cane Syrup. Web site: www.renfrofoods.com.

Mrs Sassard's - Mt. Pleasant, SC (Added February, 2004)
(443 Church Street; 843 884-4574) Artichoke relish, fig preserves, hot pepper jelly, and much more!

Murrell's Inlet Seafood - Murrell's Inlet, SC
(4886 Highway 17 Business; 843 651-9309) Official supplier to the finest fish houses in South Carolina's famed seafood capital of Murrell's Inlet (just south of Myrtle Beach).

Natchitoches ("Na-ka-tish") Pecans - Cloutierville, LA (Added November,2005; Updated January, 2007)
( 439 Little Eva Road; 800 572-5925) A 400 acre pecan orchard located on the old Little Eva Plantation. Looking for fresh pecans - in-shell, cracked, pieces? How about pralines , pecan logs, gourmet flavored pecans, gift tins ? Visit their store off Hwy 1 or browse the online store at www.natchitochespecans.com.

Neese's Country Sausage - Greensboro, NC (Added March, 2002)
North Carolina's finest; we like the Hot and Sage varieties; call them in Greensboro, North Carolina at 800 632-1010; Neese's is located at 1452 Alamance Church Road.

Nellie and Joe's Key West Lime Juice - Key West, FL
(PO Box 2368, 33045; 305 296-5566) This is the key ingredient for making an authentic key lime pie. Visit their web site at www.keylimejuice.com.

New Orleans School of Cooking - New Orleans, LA
(620 Decatur Street, 70130-1011; 800 237-4841) Gift baskets, cookbooks, Louisiana specialties.

New South Brewing - Myrtle Beach, SC (Added October, 2002)
Fine micro-brews crafted in sunny Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. For more information, contact Head Brewer David Epstein at (843) 916-2337. They are located at 851 Campbell Street in downtown Myrtle Beach.

Nona's Tamales - Tupelo, MS (Added May, 2005)
(662 842-8597) These are the real deal; homemade and delicious; ask for Anna when calling.

Old Guilford Mill - Greensboro, NC Area
Stone-ground grits, flours and grains.

Old South Pickles - Alma, AR
(PO Box 367, 72921; 800 634-2413) Choose from watermelon rind, cantaloupe, honey dew melon, cucumber nuggets, and more.

Olde Colony Bakery - Charleston, SC (Added February, 2004)
(280 King Street; 843 722-2147) Tasty Benne Wafers!

Pearson Farm (Added December, 2001)
This Crawford County, Georgia, farm is a great source for Georgia peaches and pecans. Shop online at www.pearsonfarm.com.

Pedro's Tamales - Lubbock, Texas (Added December, 2001)
Call them at 800-522-9531 or visit them online at www.pedrostamales.com.

Penzeys Spices (Added February, 2005)
(www.penzeys.com) Their catalog has a cult following; top quality herbs and spices; you can find about anything you might need; it's not cheap, but it's worth the extra $$$.

Pepper Patch Bakery - Franklin, TN (Added February, 2004)
(1250 Old Hillsboro Rd; 877-348-4779) Makers of world famous Tipsy Cake, which is spiked with Jack Daniel's Tennessee Whisky!

Pioneer Brand Flours & Mixes (Added December, 2001)
Baking powders, flours, biscuit and pancake mixes, gravy mixes, etc. from the C.H. Guenther & Son Company out of the Fredericksburg, Texas area. Try their Country Gravy Mix on Chicken Fried Steak, a Texas tradition. This company has been around since the 1800's. Learn more at www.pioneerbrand.com.

Prichard's Rum - Kelso, KY (Added June, 2004)
(931 433-5454) www.prichardsdistillery.com; premium rum made in Dixie!

Rebecca Ruth Candy - Frankfort, Kentucky (Added February, 2005)
(112 East 2nd Street, PO Box 64; 502 223-7475; 800 444-3766) www.rebeccaruth.com ; absolutely delicious bourbon balls have become a KY tradition; they also make mint julep flavored candy; if you enjoy good chocolate and fine liquor, you simply will not be disappointed!

Reverand Marvin's BBQ Sauce - Florence, SC (Added September, 2005)
This Rev makes some heavenly sauce; available in original or hot (has a mustard and vinegar base); only available in SC stores at this time (Aug 05), we hope to see more regional coverage in the future; get saved at www.revmarvin.com.

Rex Remoulade Sauce - Louisiana (Added September, 2005)
Established way back in 1888, Rex has been the brand of choice for many of New Orleans' finest chefs for well over a century. A good option when you don't have the time to make your own remoulade. Rex's blend is great with your favorite seafood or on sandwiches; available at www.neworleanstogo.com.

Rodenberry's Boiled Peanuts - Cairo, GA
(PO Box 60, 31728; 912 377-1431) Nothing beats picking up a steaming bag of boiled peanuts at a roadside stand. This product, however, is the next best thing.

Route 11 Potato Chips - Middletown, VA
(2325 First Street, Box 351; 800-294-SPUD) www.rt11.com; Hand cooked potato chips from the Old Dominion. The company sprouted in an old feed store. Martha vining writes: "every time we travel north from our home near Asheville, NC we stop in Virginia to get some Route 11 Potato Chips. They're great! Check out their web site ... We're big fans." Try the lightly salted Sweet Potato Chips (our favorite) or the spicy Chesapeake Bay Crab Chips (No MSG added!).

Rina's Kitchen - Summerville, SC (Added February, 2004)
Jams and jellies; 843 975-6999; email to jelilady@yahoo.com.

Saralyn's Shortbread - Georgia (Added May, 2002)
Scrumptious all-butter shortbread gifts in eight unique flavors such as Maple Toasted Walnut, Peanut Butter Crunch, and Praline Pecan. Produced in Georgia and shipped nationwide. Visit their website at www.saralynsshortbread.com or call toll-free at 1-877-SARALYN (727-2596).

Savoie's Meat Products (Added December, 2003)
This fine Louisiana business has been producing the very best Cajun style meats and more for decades; Savoie's Sausage and Food Products is proud to be part of the great Louisiana culinary tradition. People have cooked with Savoie's sausage and other culinary specialties since 1949. Savoie's products are "Real Cajun;" Order online at www.savoiesfoods.com ... you won't be disappointed; boudin, tasso, andouille ... they have it all!

Sherardized Pecans - Sherard, MS
(Sherard Plantation, 38669; 800 647-5518) The Sherard's have been shipping their delicious pecans since the 1930s. Order yourself 5 pounds or 50 pounds.

Shiner Bock Ale - Shiner, TX (Added October, 2002)
Brewed in Texas by the fine folks at The Spoetzl Brewery; located in the little town of Shiner, the brewery can be reached at 361 594-3383 or take a peek online at www.shiner.com.

Shuckman's Fish Co. & Smokery - Louisville, KY (Added August, 2005)
(3001 West Main Street, 40212; 502-775-6478, 502-775-6470 Fax, 888-990-8990 Toll-Free) Check 'em out on the web at www.kysmokedfish.com.

Sister Schubert's Homemade Yeast Rolls (Added December, 2003)
Some of the best frozen yeast rolls you'll taste anywhere; this Alabama based company started small, but has grown into quite a successful operation; the recipe for success, and one of their biggest secrets, is also the most basic: "never compromise the ingredients;" check the good sister out online at www.ssrolls.com.

Smithfield Hams - Smithfield, VA
(PO Box 487, 23430; 800 628-2242) The best country hams in the world are made in this area of Virginia; call for a free mail order catalog; pick up a copy of "The Smithfield Cookbook" for some fine traditional recipes.

Smokey Denmark Meats - Austin, TX (Added April, 2002)
(512 705-1380) a great source for authentic Texas smoked sausage and beef brisket; shop online at www.smokeydenmark.com.

Ellis Stansel's Rice - Gueydan, LA
(PO Box 206, 70542; 318 536-6140) Fine Louisiana rice with a unique popcorn taste.

Steen's Pure Cane Syrup - Abbeville, LA
(119 North Main Street, PO Box 339, 70511; 800 725-1654) Visit their web site at www.steensyrup.com; choose from molasses or, our favorite, pure cane syrup; super-chef Emeril Lagasse raves about steens � and with good reason! It's the best.

Stubb's Legendary Kitchen - Austin, TX
(PO Box 4941, 78765; 512 480-0203) C.C. Stubblefield (Christopher Columbus) Stubb's offers BBQ sauces, mopping sauces, and a variety of chow chow and canned goods.

Tabasco Hot Sauce and Specialties - Avery Island, LA
(70513-5002; 800 634-9599) Get their full-color mail catalog and have some fun; the very best hot sauce there is - accept no substitutes! Visit their web site at www.tabasco.com.

Talk O' Texas Okra Pickles - San Angelo, TX (Updated March, 2004)
(1610 Roosevelt Street, 76905; 800 323-5641) Hot or mild, these crunchy pods are highly addictive. Check 'em out online at www.talkotexas.com.

Taste of Gourmet Smoked Catfish Pate - Indianola, MS (Added December, 2003)
(800 722-8931; PO Box 540, 36 Sunflower Road) Smoked Catfish Pate is their primary claim to fame; check 'em out on line at www.tasteofgourmet.com.

TexaSweet Grapefruit (Added December, 2001)
Ruby Red Texas Grapefruit. Check out their website at www.texasweet.com.

Tony Chachere's Creole Seasoning - LA (Added April, 2004)
For over 65 years, Tony's first love was cooking the foods of his native Louisiana. He became famous for developing the first versatile seasoning blend that Louisianians came to adopt as their own; Tony also offers gravy mixes, fry batters, marinades and more --- all with that unique Tony Chachere taste. Web site: www.tonychachere.com.

Trappey's Golden Yams and Gumbos - New Iberia, LA
(PO Box 13610, 70562-3610; 800 365-8727) Gumbo choices include okra, chicken sausage, and seafood okra. The next best thing to home made.

Charlie Vergos Rendezvous Rib Seasoning - Memphis, TN
(52 South 2nd Street, 38103; 800 524-5554) The ribs here are the favorite of many BBQ aficianados; try to duplicate the experience at home with this fine blend of seasonings.

Very Vera (Added December, 2001)
Homemade baked goods from Georgia. Visit their online bakery at www.veryvera.com. Vera's cakes make great gifts anytime of the year.

Virginia Diner Peanuts - Wakefield, VA
(PO Box 310, 23888-0310; 800 642-NUTS) The best peanuts we've tasted anywhere; call for a free color catalog of their whole gourmet or butter toasted goobers. Visit their web site at www.vadiner.com.

Virginia Traditions - Surry, VA
(PO Box 25, 23883; 800 290-9213) Authentic Southern Smoked Meats,& Seafood & Dessert Specialties; www.vatraditions.com.

White Lily Flours and Cornmeal Mixes - Knoxville, TN
(PO Box 871, 37901; 615 546-5511) No phone orders; many southern bakers swear by the White Lily product line. Great flour for making homemade biscuits.

Wickles - Dadeville, AL (Added September, 2005)
(126 Broadnax Street; 36853; 256 825-0848) Manufactured by Sims Foods, these sweet pickle slices with a spicy finish are just awesome; we discovered them at a Piggly Wiggly store in Litchfield Beach, SC; visit their web home at www.simsfoods.com; these pickles are indeed "wickedly delicious."

Wilbur's Down East BBQ Sauce - Goldsboro, NC
(PO Box 1155, 27530) Order some of this thin vinegar and pepper sauce for the authentic taste of eastern North Carolina BBQ.

Wild American Shrimp (Added February, 2005)
This is a great site for learning more about plump shrimp harvested in the ocean ... not the bland pond-raised stuff; check them out at www.wildamericanshrimp.com.

Zapp's Potato Chips - Gramercy, LA
(Call 800-HOT-CHIP; PO Box 1533; 70052) Flavors include Cajun Craw Tators, Mesquite BBQ, Cajun Dill Gator Tators, Jalapeno, and others; founder Ron Zappe established his business in a former Chevrolet dealership; the best chip you'll ever taste … I gar-ron-tee!!! Visit their web site at www.zapps.com.

Zatarain's of New Orleans - New Orleans, LA
www.zatarain.com; makers of jambalaya mix, dirty rice mix, gumbo, creole mustard, crab boil, and red beans and rice.