Off the Menu: The Peppercorn Request That Sparked a Smile (part 1)

Every now and then at the farmers market, you meet someone who reminds you why Sideways Kitchen exists in the first place-because food is connection, community, and conversation. This story is exactly that.

A few weeks ago at The TaSH Farmers Market, a lovely customer walked up to our table, eyes bright with curiosity, and simply asked:

"Do you have peppercorns...just plain peppercorns?"

Now Chef, you know how we do-our table was full of handcrafted, salt-free blends bursting with color and flavor. But whole peppercorns? At that moment, we didn't have them in stock.

And let me tell you...the sadness that washed over our face" Heartbreaking 💔

You would've thought someone told us we ran out of sugar on Christmas morning.

But Sideways Kitchen doesn't just sell seasonings - we listen, we adapt, and we deliver.

💡 A Customer Request That Turned Into Something More

Instead of letting her walk away disappointed, we sked her for name and contact information and told her the magic words:

"If you want peppercorns, we'll get you peppercorns."

And just like that, an off-the-menu idea was born.

We sourced beautiful whole black peppercorns, followed by a peppercorn medley - a colorful fragrant blend of black, white, green, and pink peppercorns that's perfect for grinders, marinades, and finishing dishes.

🥄 Why This Matters to Us

Sideways Kitchen isn't a big-box spice company.

We're a woman owned, heart-led, community-loved kitchen brand.

When customers ask for something - even something as simple as peppercorns - we listen.

Every request tells a story.

Every request teaches us something.

And every request helps shape what Sideways Kitchen becomes next.

Peppercorns weren't on the menu...but thanks to her, they will be. (Stay tuned)

🌶️ Off the Menu: A New Sideways Kitchen Series

This peppercorn moment inspired us to start sharing more of these behind-the-apron stories - special customer request, new product ideas, and the unexpected moments that spark our creativity.

Because at Sideways Kitchen...our customers guide the flavor journey, and we're cooking it Sideways every step of the way.

Stay tuned - you never know what "off the menu" idea might be coming next. 😉