An appropriately olive-green sign alerts passersby to Mountain Town Olive Oil (613 Main St), a cozy, bright shop filled with flavors. When Jessica McCleary opened the store in 2009, “there were a lot of T-shirt shops,” she recalls, but not as many shopping options for locals or people who visit every year. She thought her olive oil concept would be a great fit for Main Street, and it has proved to be the case in the 15 years since.
McCleary started the business with olive oils and vinegars in a 400-square-foot space and quickly grew it to add gourmet foods and spices, followed by homemade spice blends with her proprietary recipes. From there, the popularity of dipping dishes expanded the shop’s stock into home décor and gifts. The store is now a home-chef’s dream, offering something for everyone with epicurean interests, including dozens of oils and vinegars to sample and experiment with. “Every day is something new,” McCleary says, noting that she is “trying to evolve all the time.”
The store outgrew its first small footprint and expanded to its current location, where there is enough space for both retail and cooking classes, which McCleary added in 2018 when a customer came in with a ski injury and was looking for a fun off-slope activity. Classes are offered throughout the year with themes from meal prep to autumn vegetarian comfort foods and more (check website for info).
Mountain Town’s Tuscan herb olive oil is a perennial bestseller, says McCleary, especially when paired with an 18-year aged balsamic. She recommends customers consider what and how they like to cook so she can suggest a flavor to complement their style. “Even after 15 years, there are things I haven’t tried together,” she says.
Throughout her years in business, McCleary has learned to “go with the flow,” trying new opportunities as they arise. This summer, she will expand Mountain Town’s provisions to include grab-and-go foods from local caterer Deanna Fitchat of DeeLicious Park City, who exclusively uses Mountain Town oils and vinegars in her cooking. It’s another way to explore the worlds of flavor these foundational ingredients provide.
McCleary’s Summer Picnic Pairings
Lemon olive oil – a perfect summer flavor, McCleary says this oil is great for salads, grilled fish or shrimp, roasted veggies, pasta, and chicken. She’ll also mix it with Mountain Town’s cranberry pear balsamic for a fantastic salad dressing.
Lemongrass mint balsamic vinegar – Add this refreshing and delicious vinegar to accent bright and fruity watermelon salads.
Pesto olive oil – This olive oil “tastes like Italy” and makes a light-bodied, herby addition to any summer spread.
Elderflower White Vinegar – A moreish, floral vinegar that’s an exceptional complement to sparkling water or cocktails.
As printed in the Park City Magazine.
