“Community is important to us, and we want to be a part of it.”
The words are simple, but the passion underneath them is palpable. And passion is what Northumberland Fine Food in Brighton is all about. Passion for great food; passion for great music; passion for great community.
Jen Haslett and husband Scott Horrobin got seriously excited about foods of the world when they travelled with their young children, exposing the entire family to different cultures and cuisines. Back home in Northumberland County, they thought it would be pretty cool to open a store that would bring a culinary experience to the area – a place that offered exceptional foods from around the globe as well as hand-crafted gourmet items from local artisans.
But it soon became so much more than that. Not only did they plan for a tasting lounge, where patrons can sample a wide selection of exquisite cheeses, meats and accoutrements along with a glass of wine, craft beer or just a fine cup of coffee, but they expanded their venue to include a small stage for intimate musical events.
“It just kind of morphed into that,” said Scott. “We wanted to create a way that artists could find a place to play. And we wanted to share our love of music with other people.”
Although the couple appreciates just about any genre of music – from Country & Western to Rock to Classical and beyond – jazz probably ranks number one in their vast record collection. But it’s the original music of the singer/songwriter that has special appeal for them.
Which is why Jen & Scott were quick to offer their Tasting Lounge to the Festival of the Arts for a pair of shows where six local singer/songwriters will perform.
“Northumberland is a burgeoning area. People are finding their way here for its beauty and its lifestyle. They come with an appreciation and desire for this kind of arts event.”
The Tasting Lounge has become a special place in Brighton, where people can come together over a charcuterie board laden with curated foods that tantalize the taste buds, and soft background music soothes the soul. On the evenings of September 18 & 19, NFOTA will present “Body & Soul” here, with gratitude to Jen & Scott for opening up this unique space to our musical artists.
“There’s no reason why Northumberland shouldn’t have access to this kind of venue,” Scott added. “And we are thrilled to offer a gathering place for the community – people shouldn’t have to go to the ‘big city’ to find incredible food and music.”
You can visit Northumberland Fine Food at 39 Richardson Street, Brighton. Check out their website at northumberlandfinefood.ca for upcoming events, and sign up for their newsletter so you can keep up-to-date with all the wonderful foods, concerts and movie nights on offer.
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