Aphrodite, Inc.
Freelance Writing, Editing, and Design
Site Design Copyright 2008 Aphrodite, Inc.
Aphrodite, Inc.
Freelance Writing, Editing, and Design
Spotlight On: Wickford Gourmet Foods
Wickford RI
Step into Wickford Gourmet Foods, and the first thing you’ll notice are the wonderful smells: the heady aroma of
fresh-ground coffees, the tang of artisan cheeses, the earthy scent of chocolate. The next thing you’ll notice is
the atmosphere, which is nostalgic, eclectic, and welcoming. You’ll be greeted with a smile by manager Shannon
and friendly staff members, and before you know it you’ll be ensconced on the covered patio with a bowl of
homemade soup, a fresh salad, and a selection of unusual and fragrant cheeses. Or maybe you’ll be in the
upstairs dining area, curled up with a steaming espresso and your laptop, taking advantage of the free Wi-fi.
A South County fixture for years, Wickford Gourmet Foods has gained widespread renown in recent months for a
single delectable menu item: the Wickford Brownie. The Brownie (or rather, 400 brownies) appeared on the
Rachel Ray show on March 22 of this year to rave reviews. Wickford Gourmet was also honored on September
6th by the South County Tourism Council, and has been recognized by Rhode Island Monthly as the state’s ‘Best
Place to Buy Cheese’.
Owner Ugur Yilmaz has created a diverse, service-oriented business based on a staunch commitment to fresh,
high-quality gourmet foods. Aside from the many delicacies available in the store, Wickford Gourmet offers
catering services for small to mid-sized functions, corporate lunch menus, and an enormous variety of gift
baskets – all perfect for wowing clients. The ‘Dinner for Two’ program is a great choice for a special couples’
night: a professional chef from Wickford Gourmet will come to your home and prepare a spectacular gourmet
meal while you relax with your other half – or while the two of you enjoy optional pre-dinner massages! There
are also a number of events scheduled at the Wickford store location, including hands-on cheese tasting, ‘Writer’
s Night Out’, and live music performances on the patio.
Recently, Mr. Yilmaz and his staff opened a new satellite location: the Wickford Gourmet Coffee Shop, located at
7595 Post Road in North Kingstown (near the Post Office). There, the Wickford Gourmet’s staff serves up great
coffee, as well as a fresh lunch menu of soups, salads, and sandwiches. The Coffeehouse is also available for
private parties during non-business hours.
As the reputation and popularity of this Rhode Island treasure continue to grow, Mr. Yilmaz plans to expand the
business to include other locations such as Bristol, Newport, and Westerly. Individuals or groups interested in
becoming part of this cooperative expansion should call Mr. Yilmaz at 978.549.7933, or log on to www.
wickfordgourmet.com and click on ‘Investor Info’.
Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a sumptuous catered evening in, a cup of great coffee or a perfect
gift, Wickford Gourmet Foods is the place to go in South County.