Roadside Delights

Fresh produce, vintage cookbooks, and delicious homegrown, handcrafted preserves and condiments line the shelves of this charming roadside haunt. Kaffir Lime and Chilli Jam, Feijoa and Date Kasundi, Lemon and Toasted Fennel Salt and Algies Bay Mandarin Chocolate Sauce are just a few of the garden-inspired goodies Rootstock founder and chief chutney-maker, Tess Lenart, has created.

Described as “Michelin star-level,” by a local radio host, the products available in this beautifully put-together stall pack a punch, and Philippa Potaka, Director at local Matakana food business, Village Picnic, agrees. The Rootstock Larder is one of the exclusive suppliers for their Mystery Picnic scavenger hunt experience and Rootstock chutneys will soon feature on Village Picnic’s new catering concept – a Curated Charcuterie and Cheese Cart for hire, supporting local artisans like Rootstock.

While she’ll always love chutney and cheese, Tess has plans to grow Rootstock beyond a roadside stall. With a 20-plus-year career in food in various shapes and forms, Tess has a wealth of knowledge and is passionate about her subject. Her Instagram account is a feast for the eyes and, at its heart, a celebration of produce-driven, homestyle cooking.

As well as updating the community with the latest stall products and happenings, Tess shares classic and innovative seasonal recipes, kitchen hacks, clever ideas for feasting with friends, simple weeknight dinners, parties and family-friendly meals – all inspired by her garden, family, travels, the region, and a lifetime of cooking and eating exceptional food.

Rootstock products are available to purchase at The Rootstock Larder weekly from Friday to Sunday at 41 Willjames Avenue, Algies Bay, or can be shipped nationwide. Follow on Instagram to keep up-to-date with new and seasonal products and for kitchen and garden inspiration.

www.instagram.com/RootstockJournal | Tess.Lenart@gmail.com