Penzeys Spices — Attraction in Arlington

I hate to write this because I love Penzey’s, I’ve been a customer since I lived in CA and the Torrance location had opened. I’ve bought the gift cards, spice mixes, essentials, soup bases, you name it. In CA, I never ran into a problem in a Penzey’s.

However my last visit to a Penzey’s was today, because the woman at the counter gave explicit racist attitude towards my husband. She gave us no greeting, and we shopped quickly and quietly because it was raining and we knew what we wanted.

We approached the counter, my husband greets HER first, and she looks him in the eye, says nothing, and completely ignores him the rest of the exchange. She proceeds then to only speak to me. What???? Did she think I wouldn’t see that? Do you treat all of your black customers like that?

Unacceptable and rude behavior for a place that claims to be so forward and support good causes. I will not be returning to this location. Thankfully the other locations in CA have been kind and wonderful...

I have been a devotee of Penzey's for more than 20 years. I fondly remember all of the fabulous catalogs filled with recipes from regular folk from around the country and I wish I had kept them. I LOVE that Bill Penzey puts his heartfelt deeply held beliefs into his business model. He has the moral character to stand up for what he believe is right. This company is all about peace love and understanding. Bill Penzey isn't storming the capitol, he isn't even mean tweeting --if you don't like what he is saying, don't shop there. Thank goodness there are still real men who act from their beliefs and stand up for what is right. AND the herbs, spices and blends...

What a wonderful shop! The staff is incredibly friendly and approachable. The store is well organized with a very well-stocked selection for both baking and cooking needs. It’s a fun, welcoming place where you can try new spices by letting your nose and your heart lead the way. I came for the spices, stayed for the heart. Love a business that isn’t afraid to stand for something. Great flavors and values. Was looking for turmeric, accidentally found a business with integrity. Whoops. Some folks want their spice shops like their morals: bland, whitewashed, and afraid to speak up. This shop isn’t that and thank goodness for it....