by Steven Doyle
This weekend we took a stroll into the fairly new Bolsa Mercado top check out some of the local products they are moving at break-neck speeds. We ran into on of the owners, Chris Zielke and he showed us around a bit. You will recognize the name from his other Bolsa, the restaurant, just a few doors down the street.
“This is so much different than running the restaurant. I come in on a Monday morning and the shelves are bare, and I have to start all over again,” said Zielke.
Looking about we spotted some fine local beers including the limited edition of Deep Ellum’s double stout chocolate cherry brew which sold out in just a few days. Zielke also stocks some Texas wines.
In the deli cases there were many selections of baked goods and house-made meats proffered by chefs Jeff Harris and Matt Balke. The make a house pastrami that is sinfully delicious. Each day they create a dinner for two that is made to be taken home and enjoyed. There are usually several dinners to choose from, and each are hearty and satisfying.
Besides some of the local produce, and we are fairly certain the supply of pineapple were not grown locally, there is a large stash of pastas, grains, cheeses, confections and sauces to choose from. The neighborhood is happily supporting the goods which further helps our local economy.
Although Dude, Sweet Chocolate is located less than a mile away in the Bishop Arts District, you can also find a quick stash of Katherine Clapner’s creations at Mercado.
We spotted just a few of Iris McCallister’s Oh* Brownies in stock this past Sunday. Zielke said it is new to the shop, and they are a challenge to keep on the shelves. You may also purchase brownies online and have them delivered as gifts. Large orders are happily accepted for your corporate friends.
The day we stopped in Mercado had a special visitor in the house, Dr Sue. She is a real doctor and also owns her own chocolate company here in Dallas. You can find her many heart warming candies across the city, and now also at Mercado.
Another local purveyor was spotted in the cheese mix. Mozzarella Company is located in Deep Ellum and owner Paula Lambert’s cheeses can be found on many menus in Dallas and around the country.
Last year we paid a visit to the Homestead Gristmill and actually watched the grains being pulverized into some of the best grits and polenta that can be found today. On the same Waco compound as the Gristmill, you can also find them making cheese under the label of Brazo’s Valley.
Kathy Neumuller of JJ&B makes some of the areas finest Jams and Jellies. Using widely organic and locally grown ingredients, JJ&B spreads are always crafted in small batches to ensure quality and flavor.
Local baker Paul Wackym is often seen at the Dallas Farmers Market, his delicious line of cookies are now on Mercado shelves.
More cookies from neighbor Kessler Cookie Company.
There are many other fine products like Carlo’s World Famous Pastas made on SMU Boulevard, Well Coffee Roasters, and Beth Marie’s Old Fashioned Ice Cream. More merchandise is being added all the time, so visit often and support your local artisans.
