Prickly Pears Gourmet Gallery is an eclectic shop full of unique original art work and gourmet treats. Hand dipped chocolate, imported cheeses, a full line of organic spices, wonderful sauces, gourmet coffees and teas, fine wine, micro-brewed and imported beers and beautiful original artwork can all be found in a bright and fun tropical setting.
Owner Dolores Lowery started cooking at age 9 when her mother showed her how bake German Chocolate cake from scratch. She has loved cooking ever since. "I love the creative aspects of cooking. Cooking is an art and the palate is unlimited. My best advice for those who want to learn to cook is don’t be afraid to experiment."
When she moved to Mexico Beach in 2001, she wanted to start a business and was looking for something that was needed in the area. When she couldn’t find the specialty foods and spices she needed, she decided to open a gourmet shop. Having friends that were artists gave her the idea for a “gourmet gallery.” The name Prickly Pears came because she cooks with the prickly pear fruit and they are native to our area. Gourmet food, wine, cheese, original art work – it all goes hand in hand. She found an old house to lease and was able to explore her creative side. She painted each wall a different color and was able to mix all the things she loves together. The result is the most unique shop on the beach. It’s tropical, fun and full of great stuff to eat, drink and feast your eyes on.
Prickly Pears has a full line of organic spices with everything from arrowroot, to saffron, juniper berries to vanilla beans. Looking for imported cheeses, how about some Asadero – the melting cheese for Mexican cheese dip, Drunken Goat cheese from Spain, the real Parmesan Reggiano from Italy, Aged Gouda from Holland, Blueberry Stilton from England and more. Check out the wine cellar with a wonderful selection of fine wines and imported and micro-brewed beers. Wonderful jellies, salsas, bread dipping oils, balsamic vinegars, spice mixes and sauces candies and hand dipped chocolates are also available. Check our calendar for wine and beer tastings and art shows, many which benefit local charities and non-profit groups. The art work includes hand made jewelry, water color, photography, wood carving, pen and ink, acrylics ceramics and glass work. Stop by, Dolores is always happy to help with recipe ideas and if we don’t carry something you are looking for, she’ll try to find it for you.
