Hu Cashew Butter + Pure Vanilla Bean Dark Chocolate
Hu prides itself on its simple, organic, and Fair Trade ingredients. I pride myself in eating chocolate that tastes good. Hu chocolate tastes particularly good. The chocolate is rich without being bitter, and the cashew filling offers a soft, creamy contrast to the firm snap of the chocolate exterior. At one point, thanks to a sale, a coupon, and my staff discount, I managed to snag these bars for just 79 cents each. I ate dozens. With other chocolates, such overindulgence might have been sickening, but with Hu, the enjoyment only grew with each bite. The Pure Vanilla Bean flavor is a standout: classic, smooth, and tasty. -Luke, Administrative
Schär Entertainment Crackers
Good, especially considering these crackers are gluten-free. Slightly buttery and salty, a mild but tasty little cracker. Willy East and Willy North only. -Eric, Grocery
Madison Chocolate Co. London Chew
Need a gift for a friend with adventurous taste buds? Locally made, this London chew is quality chocolate with a unique spin! Chocolate, graham cracker, coconut, but then throw some curry flavor in the mix and you have a bite you won’t soon forget! Willy East and Willy North only. -Rachael, Deli
Maple Valley Cooperative Organic Maple Candy
IYKYK. I’m going to reveal to you one of the rare sleeper items here at WSGC: Small batch outta Cashton, WI. Pretty sugar molds of decadent maple sugar, these make a PERFECT MiniGift for just about anybody on your list. No chocolate? No problem! Neighbors, Aunties, Letter Carriers, Piano Teachers will remember that you gifted them these! 🍁 -Amy, Adminitrative
Fishwife Smoked Salmon with Fly by Jing Chili Crisp
This is the best smoked salmon tin I’ve ever eaten. I especially love the Sichuan Chili Crisp flavor giving my cracker game a real kick. -Nico, Grocery
Kalamazoo Candle Company Fraser Fir 2-Wick Candle
I love everything about winter: the snow, a chilly breeze on a cold sunny day, bundling up for a brisk walk, and cozying up inside with a book and warm drink. This candle captures those vibes perfectly. The scent is crisp and not cloying. It has great throw and is long-lasting, perfect for chilly winter nights. -Kait, General Merchandise
Folkmanis Puppets
Folkmanis has been making the most delightful puppets since the ’70s. They are so detailed and fun—my daughter has the Snowy Owl and not only can you make the owl’s wings flap, there’s also a post inside that lets you spin the owl’s head all the way around. A perfect gift for the young people in your life. -Caitlyn, Communications
Organic Satsuma Mandarins
December is peak Satsuma Mandarin season! Satsuma is my favorite variety of all the mandarins. “Zipper skins” make them easy to peel, and full of rich, sweet, mandarin flavor. It’s a burst of sunshine in every bite! -Andy, Purchasing
Mifroma Alpenhorn
AKA Hornkukase. This Swiss alpine cheese is somewhat near a gruyere or appenzeller, with a nutty, onion-y, brothy flavor that is pretty great. This cheese also took third place at the 2024 World Cheese Awards. Willy East and Willy West only. -Matt, Cheese
Bautista Family Organic Date Ranch Organic Medjool Dates
I was never a date guy until I started working in the Produce department at the Co-op. You will often hear the phrase “nature’s candy” applied to various fruit, and you may have scoffed at this notion if you’re a candy addict like myself. Let me tell you, these will rewire your brain. They are that good, no lie. -Shannon, Front End
Tierra Farms Bulk Organic Roasted Curry Cashews
Delicious, filling, perfect for a quick snack or a crunchy charcuterie element. -Katy, Front End
Olli Salumeria Fennel Pollen Salame
I like mine thin-sliced on a charcuterie board next to Hook’s Cheddar and fresh blueberries. Think butter melting through a fantastic chew. Think picnics with just the right breeze and just the right company. -Beth, Customer Experience
Krinke’s Market Black Popcorn
I have never cooked popcorn myself without it being in a pre-made bag. This popcorn got my attention, and after trying it, I will never return to my previous way of eating popcorn. Willy North only. -Dwayne, Grocery
Rishi Tea & Botanicals Everyday Matcha
I’m not a coffee drinker, so my breakfast beverage of choice has been matcha for a while. I love this kind of matcha because it’s smooth and not too bitter and gives me just the boost I’m looking for in the morning!
-Arlo, Front End
Wood River Creamery Black Truffle Cheddar Gruyere
I love this cheese because it is locally made and the secret ingredient to my baked mac-n-cheese. Shhh, don’t tell. This cheese is so creamy and that black truffle flavor is the perfect “kick.” It’s perfect for melting in a recipe requiring cheese or on a charcuterie board. -Steffry, Finance
Racine Kringle Co. Raspberry Kringle
THESE ARE THE BOMB! Locally made, traditional Wisconsin pastry, and a little slice of joy with every bite. I love eating them at breakfast with some coffee, but they’re also a fantastic sweet dessert. -Jon, Grocery
Sartori MontAmoré
This cheese tastes like a combination of cheddar (but not too sharp) and Parmesan (but creamier). Made in Plymouth, Wisconsin, about two hours away from Madison and Middleton. This is our family’s go-to for a cheese tray. -Brendon, Communications
Calendars and Planners
We always get such cool and unique calendars and planners this time of the year! There is a design (or two or three) for everyone—it can be hard to decide! Our calendars/planners are really high quality and come in various sizes to fit any space. It’s so nice to have a calendar or planner that is enjoyable to look at everyday (my favorite is any of the kitten options!) -Abigail, Grocery
Biloxi Shrimp Co. 16/20 Shell-On Shrimp
Great shrimp harvested from the Gulf Coast of Mississippi. Certified Forrest Gump-approved! -Nick, Purchasing
Clasen European Bakery Pfeffernüsse
AKA German spice cookies. In my opinion, the best holiday cookies. Clasen’s recipe is special—not only do they have the perfect balance of traditional spices, they also dip it in dark chocolate before coating it in powdered sugar. Perfect with a hot cup of tea. -Delta, Produce
Tey-Art Alpaca Socks
Keep your feet warm this winter with Alpaca socks! A great sock for hikers to keep your feet nice n’ toasty and wicks away any moisture. Made in Peru with Fair Trade practices. These socks will make great stocking stuffers this upcoming holiday season!! -Carmelo, Produce
