The True Olive Connection

Loved it and continue to love it every time I go in. Not only do they have a fabulous array of tasty olive oils and balsamic vinegars (strawberry balsamic is my current fave), but Mike and Susan are community builders. They are often seen at local community functions, giving out samples, and supporting the events.

They are a favorite with the locals on First Friday, always providing food and drink for everyone who pours into the store. That's a happening event all in itself! I love the way they innovate using their oils and balsamics. They pair them together and make the most wonderful tasty treats for everyone to sample. At one event, they combined vanilla gelato, fresh strawberries, and a slight pour of espresso balsamic...what an amazing treat!

You can get gift packs of all sizes and add other gift items available in the store. And you can also have your own private party right there in the store!

I highly recommend Susan and Mike's True Olive Connection. They have an awesome staff too! They are a true gem in the Santa Cruz Community.

The selection of oils is quite good, and they also have flavored vinegars, such as maple and ripe peach. They are excellent over ice cream, for example.

There is always an intriguing selection of kitchen doodads and spices. Flavored salts, dipping spices, saucers for dipping oils, etc.

There is one odd thing. You can bring your bottles back, and they will refill them, and you save a little money. They won’t exchange them or clean them, just… refill. They will give them a sniff to see if the bottle is rancid, but that’s it. So, clean your bottles before returning, or just recycle the bottles at home and get new ones in the store.