A Chef's Saturday, Part 2

Next up on my stop: an old favorite, Liberty Heights Fresh. A good friend of mine pointed this place out to me a couple of years ago, and I've been hooked ever since. This place is a lot like Pirate O's, except they have more of an emphasis on fresh foods, such as produce (which I did not see at Pirate O's). These guys have a cheese selection that is hard to beat, certainly in Salt Lake. And the great thing is, they will let you taste any of it before you buy it. While I forgot to pick up the gorgonzola I meant to buy today, I have previously picked up all sorts of cheeses, from Lincolnshire poacher to Parmessiano Reggiano.

They also have a killer selection of fresh olives, which are entirely self-serve. I did pick up some kalamatas, some kind of "olive cocktail" and something marinated in herbs de provence. I also picked up a wee jar of saffron, known far and wide as the world's most expensive food ($7.99 for a tiny, tiny jar, and probably a deal at that).

I don't know if they've ever not had purple potatoes there. These are truly a treat. I've made mashed potatoes with them (with chipotle Tobasco and garlic, of course), I've made appetizer cups with them, I've even made oven fries. Go buy some. Right now. Treat 'em the same way you would red potatoes, and you won't go wrong.

And let's not forget the breads. They have a wide selection of fresh-baked breads available behind the registers, all you need to do is ask. Everyone I know that knew about this place before I did knew them for their bread. I could go on and on about the chocolates, the oils and vinegars, the pastas, everything. But I think it's time you check it out yourself.