5 Local Food & Beverage Brands That Made It Big
In the vibrant tapestry of the food and beverage industry, local heroes often emerge to captivate our taste buds and transform the culinary landscape. Here’s a deep dive into five remarkable brands that originated from humble beginnings and have skyrocketed to national acclaim. Each story is a blend of passion, creativity, and resilience, showcasing how innovation can turn simple ideas into household names.
1. Hot Crispy Oil
John Trimble, a Capital Region native, turned personal tragedy into triumph with Hot Crispy Oil. After the passing of his father, he returned to Albany to support his mother and manage the family restaurant, La Serre. However, when COVID-19 struck, the restaurant closed, and John found himself navigating the kitchen with his children.
From this challenging period emerged a culinary sensation that has garnered a national fanbase. Hot Crispy Oil isn’t just a condiment; it’s a movement, with products ranging from the original chili garlic oil to innovative aiolis, hot sauces, and seasonings. Demand has been so overwhelming that Trimble recently acquired a warehouse on Thatcher Street to keep the culinary creations flowing.
2. Bilinski’s Sausage
In 1929, Joseph Bilinski embarked on a journey that would resonate through generations by founding Bilinski’s Sausage in Cohoes, New York. Seeking a better life after immigrating from Ukraine, Joseph utilized his Old-World sausage-making expertise to provide flavors reminiscent of his homeland.
This family-owned business evolved significantly, transitioning to a national brand by 1983. Today, Bilinski’s is celebrated for its commitment to clean ingredients and humane sourcing. They partner exclusively with farmers who prioritize antibiotic- and hormone-free chickens. Remarkably, all production still takes place at their Cohoes facility, ensuring quality and consistency across their national reach.
3. Death Wish Coffee
Death Wish Coffee began as a modest basement project in 2012 at Saratoga Coffee Traders. This innovative brand now stands tall in the coffee arena, known for its rich, bold flavors and higher caffeine content.
Just when you thought the journey couldn’t get more thrilling, Death Wish won a coveted 30-second Super Bowl ad slot in 2016, propelling them into the spotlight. Their unique blend utilizes USDA Organic and Fair-Trade Certified beans, offering a variety of roasts and flavors, including divine options like vanilla and chocolate hazelnut. They’ve even diversified into exciting new products, such as canned lattes that maintain their commitment to quality and sustainability.
4. Saratoga Spring Water
Does water truly have flavor? According to Saratoga Water, it certainly does! Established in 1872 in Saratoga Springs, this luxury water brand is more than just another bottled water—it’s a sensory experience featuring unique flavor profiles and mouthfeel.
With a recent viral moment on social media (remember the Ashton Hall GRWM videos?), Saratoga Water continues to thrive, being the official water of Bravo’s Top Chef. Their Supper Club showcases high-profile gastronomic events at Michelin-starred restaurants, solidifying their status in the culinary elite.
5. MyBacon
Who would have thought that fungi could lead to the creation of bacon? Meet the visionary team of Eben Bayer and Gavin McIntyre, founders of MyForest Foods, a branch of Ecovative, spearheading mycelium innovation.
Launched in 2020, MyBacon—a plant-based alternative—has quickly gained traction for its incredibly realistic taste and texture. It’s a delightful revelation for both vegans and bacon enthusiasts alike, as it’s crafted to be gluten-free, soy-free, and totally vegan, making it a must-try for anyone looking to indulge without compromise.
Conclusion
Each of these local brands—Hot Crispy Oil, Bilinski’s Sausage, Death Wish Coffee, Saratoga Spring Water, and MyBacon—illustrates a beautiful narrative of passion, resilience, and innovation. Their journeys remind us of the power of local ingredients and creative minds to spark change in our culinary landscape. Whether you’re a foodie, a coffee fanatic, or a health-conscious eater, you’re sure to find inspiration in their stories.
For more enriching culinary insights and great brands, stay tuned!
