WHO IS LEEANN ZUBAY
This is FOOD UNION
Oh hello, I am LeeAnn Zubay, I’ve been thinking, eating, and talking about food for a helluva long time; this is my latest venture. Here’s my story…
Once upon a time, I owned and operated ZZest Market. During its glory days, I was like a pig in shit. Every . Single. Solitary day was delicious. I gained weight, knowledge, and recognition. It was addicting. I became a cheese specialist, which sounds lame, but the test to get the title was not. Think sommelier but cheese instead of wine. I won the Specialty Food Outstanding Retailer in 2011. I am pretty damn proud of both of those achievements. One puts letters behind my name; the other looks like an Oscar.
Like childbirth, I forgot the pain associated with running a small business. This time I’m a little wiser, maybe. Some may call it a legacy project [OMG]. I consider it a hobby farm. The FOOD part focuses on subscription boxes, gift boxes, and now a super swanky little shop that I will never get enough of. The UNION part is maybe more important. I am teaming up with other artsy sorts of people and coming up with some small events. I like to refer to it as Food Acadamia, but you won’t have to study; just get ready to explore some tasty subjects. This brings me to our lending library of cookbooks. You have to check it out.
My blog is Midnight Smack. I want to share the stories of the people I have had the pleasure of working with. Those that have gone on to their own food obsessions. I also deep dive into some of the shops’ great products and remember Rochester’s long ago food scene.
Basically, I’m kind of back at it. I re-branded ZZest Market into Food Union. So it’s kind of like ZZest, only way smaller and in a hidden basement full of collectibles and a few oddities.
So buckle up—things could get a little weird this time around. Really? Well, probably not that weird, but it will be a load of FUn.
PS- That chick in the photo above? Yeah, that’s my graduation photo. Feel free to email me that I have hardly changed!
FAQs
What are your hours?
OPEN Tuesdays 1 pm to 6 pm. Then, Wednesday through Friday, 11 am to 6 pm. Occasional Saturdays 11 am - 3 pm [dates are posted online]
Do you ship?
We do now! At check out, from the pantry, just choose the shipping option!
What is a Food Union Subscription Box?
Well, a subscription box is a recurring, physical box of curated products ready to pick up during a designated week. In other words, it is a fun, surprise-filled box of inviting ingredients that are highly pleasing. And, a bit of a mystery as well: you will be delighted and surprised each time you get a new one. We have an opinion on literally everything, so blow-by-blow tasting notes and serving suggestions will be included. So put your fridge and pantry in our hands. We know what we're doing.
What if I can't pick up my subscription box in the allotted time frame?
No worries, we will figure something out.
What comes in a Subscription box?
Check out the links to each subscription box HERE for details, but quick and dirty - we have Cheese & Charcuterie, Chocolate Provisions, and Pantry Envy. Each box will contain about 5-7 items.
Can I customize a subscription box?
At this time, we are unable to offer that. However, for dietary restrictions or food allergies, feel free to add a note, and we will make sure that it is taken care of.
Can you deliver?
Yes, in the Rochester area, there is a $10 per box charge for that. So, for example, the subscriptions would be three months, add $30. Walking distance to downtown hotels and businesses is free
Where are you located?
Right downtown Rochester 212 1st Ave SW lower level. There is a lime green door and a black door. Pick the black door and go straight down the steps. Yes you did read that right. There is a flight of stairs. This building was built in 1895, and this is what I have to work with. Curbside delivery is always available, just order online and I’ll run it up.
What is a Food Union Gift Box, then?
Ah… glad you asked—first, a stress-free shopping experience.
This will be a memorable, thoughtful gift. A gift full of surprises and items they would probably not buy for themselves. Perfect for a host, hostess gift, friends, family, a foodie, or an eater. Choose from Cheese & Charcuterie, Chocolate Provisions, and Pantry Envy.
What about allergies and dietary restrictions?
There's an option to add a note. So just do that, and we will take care of all of it.
Is there anything else cool?
For sure! Occasional events that book up fast. Join our mailing list to get the deets first. Also in store, we have a Cook Book Lending Library. You know the drill, take a book, keep a book bring a book.
You have questions? We have answers!
If you need more info on a product or just want to chat, we are here for you! Contact us however you’d like.
hello@thisisfoodunion.com
507.710.1931
Downtown, Wellington Square (lower level)
212 1st Ave SW - Rochester, MN 55902