The Essence of Local Food

Walk into Essence on Main in Clarkston and you’ll find yourself engulfed in a cloud of delicious smells: freshly brewed Bourbon Pecan Torte Coffee, warm organic ginger molasses cookies (shh! The recipe is a secret!), or the grilled buttery goodness of the Turkey Loves Cherry sandwich (hungry yet?).

Operated by Chef Joan Donnay and her family, the gourmet specialty market serves up delicious prepared foods, local, organic specialty foods, and items for all your entertaining needs. Oh, and don’t forget the large helping of fun! Staff are quick with a smile or joke and always ready to help put together a beautiful gift basket or help decide which bottle of wine to take to the in-laws. The owners’ personality and charm is also evident in the stores décor each season: giant pumpkins, elegant ravens, and witches with bubbly cauldrons in October to a whimsical winter wonderland filled with elves straight from Santa’s workshop in December.

essence beer essence baskets

The store also boasts a fabulous selection of wines from small family vineyards around the world (including Michigan!) and a wide range of unique craft beers. If you’re new to beer or wine, or just looking to discover something new, Essence hosts weekly wine and beer tastings (Thursday nights). These events allow you to sample some unique and flavorful beverages with the guidance of sommelier or brew master.

To learn more about Essence on Main, the food they serve, catering opportunities or gift baskets, visit: www.essenceonmain.com

Essence on Main, 4 S. Main St, Clarkston, MI 48346

Kelly Wilson is the TLD Local Food Coordinator for SE Michigan. She is a registered dietitian and operates Simple Gifts Farm in Oxford, MI. Contact her at [email protected]