Con’ Olio is a quaint olive oil and balsamic vinegar shop in the heart of downtown Austin. After reading about the shop and hearing the buzz on their incredibly fresh olive oils, I decided to pop in and see for myself.
not to mention her fun penmanship! |
When I started tasting, I adored this store twice as much. Con’ Olio has a variety of olive oils, balsamic vinegars and even truffle oil (yum!). Why buy these products from the store when you can get them fresh right here?
They had flavors I never even thought could exist, and when Mariana prepared magical oil/balsamic concoctions, I sat there wide-eyed. The mix of flavors were unbelievable. At one point, I thought I might have to buy the whole store!
To my luck, Jeff Conarko walked in as I was exploring with Mariana. He explained how Con’ Olio’s products are a million times fresher and tastier that the commercial products. Unfortunately, because of the lack of standards, olive oils may not always be 100% from olives. They may be mixed with cheaper oils such palm, avocado or sunflower oil. At Con’ Olio, the oils are pure and imported from all over the world.
Jeff had me smell the olive oil and I was engulfed ingrass and green freshness. He told me to go home and compare the smell and taste of Con’ Olio’s oil to the store bought ones. The smell and taste of my olive oil was flat and not nearly as fragrant as Con’ Olios. I know I won’t be buying my olive oil from the grocery store anymore!
Jeff also explained that the most important information to look at is the crush date. That is the date that the olive was pressed, and even with the most careful storing, it should be consumed within one year from that date.
Blackberry Ginger.Honey Ginger.Peach. Green Chili.Harissa. Blood Orange.Cilantro and Roasted Onion.Persian Lime.Coconut White.Espresso Dark. Am I making you drool?
They even have a variety of bottle sizes. I thought the small ones were perfect for me so that it doesn’t go to waste. However, one week later, I am already 3/4 bottle down!
One of my favorite mixes was Harissa Olive Oil with Espresso Balsamic Vinegar. I smothered these with my veggies and quinoa and it was absolutely phenomenal.
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March 23, 2016 at 12:36 am[…] you read my previous post on Con Olio’s, you know that Jeff and Tabatha Conarko own the cutest olive oil and vinegar […]