Member Profile – Chicory Blue General Store
Meet Camelia Frieberg. Camelia Frieberg is the dedicated owner of Chicory Blue, a popular local general store, café, and restaurant in Blockhouse, Nova Scotia. Known for its wide variety of organic and locally sourced products, the team at Chicory Blue offers everything from pantry staples to kombucha, cheeses, freshly baked goods, specialty coffees, and beer and wine. The restaurant serves an array of daily specials, from old favourites like breakfast sandwiches, to enticing North African and Mediterranean inspired soups, salads and main courses. Whether it’s a quick coffee and a snack, prepared by long-term barista, Chesony Sheppard, or a sit-down meal, customers enjoy bold flavours and fresh products with a strong emphasis on high-quality, organic and local ingredients.
The bakery at Chicory Blue is a particular point of pride. The store’s talented Ukrainian baker, Liuda Titkova, turns out an eclectic, ever changing selection of baked goods (including gluten free options) inspired by Middle Eastern and Mediterranean traditions. Whether it’s their famous Jerusalem bagels, or their giant scones, Chicory Blue is committed to delivering both quality and value.
Not only did Chicory Blue survive the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, but its focus on community also meant that it thrived. Along with her partner, Angus Smith, Camelia has worked hard to cultivate an inviting atmosphere, where customers feel a sense of belonging and connection. Chicory Blue regularly hosts events and workshops, including courses and “lunch and learn” sessions led by Angus, aimed at strengthening these community ties and revitalizing the local area.
Supporting local producers has always been a core value for Chicory Blue. Drawing on her experience as a farmer, Camelia sources many of the store’s products from nearby suppliers, always striving to maintain reasonable prices. This makes Chicory Blue a convenient and trusted one-stop shop for customers seeking fresh, locally made products.
Camelia also appreciates the historical significance of running a general store in her community. She sees it as not only a business but a place that brings people together and contributes to the growth of other local businesses. The area is experiencing a revitalization, with other exciting ventures emerging, and Camelia is enthusiastic about the future.
For Camelia Frieberg, Chicory Blue represents much more than just a business. It’s a labor of love that reflects her passion for good food, her dedication to supporting local producers, and her commitment to nurturing a strong, vibrant community.
