Our Story
Savory Spice was born in 2004 when husband and wife duo Mike and Janet Johnston left behind their lives in Chicago to pursue a dream in Denver, Colorado. Both avid home cooks, they wanted more than just a shop that sold spices. They envisioned a place where people could discover new flavors, learn the stories behind them, and bring joy to family and friends through food.
What started as a single neighborhood spice shop quickly grew into a trusted brand with locations across the country and an ever-growing online presence. But at its heart, Savory Spice has always remained the same: a small-batch spice company driven by a love of cooking, community, and connection.
A Journey of Flavor
From the very beginning, Mike and Janet believed that authenticity matters. They traveled across the globe, visiting spice farms, markets, and kitchens, meeting farmers, pitmasters, and local culinary experts who taught them the traditions behind the world’s most beloved flavors.
One of the most defining journeys came when Mike embarked on a 45-day road trip through America’s barbecue belt, meeting with pitmasters from Texas to the Carolinas to lock in the authenticity of Savory Spice’s regional BBQ rubs. These journeys, and countless others, inspired the blends that now fill home kitchens nationwide.
Every jar we produce carries that same commitment: flavors that are authentic, bold, and crafted with care.
Founders' Favorites
Mike and Janet thoughtfully curated 40 of their most beloved spices and blends, inspired by years of travel, discovery, and a passion for sharing flavor. With more than two decades of helping new and long-time customers uncover their perfect flavors, there's something for everyone.
Our Founders’ Favorites collection reflects the heart of Savory Spice—from authentic, time-tested seasonings to comforting baking blends rooted in family tradition. Each jar is a reflection of the trust, quality, and flavor adventure that they have championed since the beginning.
Chef Review
You can't keep me out of Savory Spice. Their team has put together an amazing store that really takes you on a culinary journey, without getting on an airplane. I like the fact that their spices are always fresh, which in my business is important!
Greatest place to buy spices and extracts! They are great at shipping (which is really good as I no longer live in Colorado), but walking into a shop, just to stand there and take in the aroma of the spices is a delight in itself.
Laura H.
Shop Pure Madagascar Vanilla Extract
Chef Review
We've used Savory Spice for our ingredients from the beginning. I was a fan of their shops even before I started my company. Browsing their spices is such a fun way to get meal ideas, and the employees are always so knowledgeable.
We've been shopping in-house & online since moving to Colorado. We love the excellent customer service when in-person & attention to detail when packages are shipped. Years later, our extended family is loving this brand & requesting them for gifts. Thanks for helping us make new traditions and lots of tasty treats!
Chef Review
I know that all the spices we use from Savory Spice are going to be the highest quality and offer delicious flavor. We love the complexity of the Chai Spices for our Chai truffle. The Cayenne Chile and Baking Spice bring our Mayan hot chocolate to life. Savory Spice is a great partner for chocolate!
The Savory Spice team is knowledgeable and helpful. The product is unparalleled. The dip mixes are a favorite. As are the soup mixes. As are the infused salts. As are the spice blends. You get the picture.
Chef Review
We love purchasing spices at their freshest. It makes a noticeable difference in our sauces, soups, and stocks. And I adore visiting our store - it’s like a calming aromatherapy session while I catch up with the amazing staff.
This was my first order from Savory Spice and I already know I will be a long-time loyal customer. You can taste the quality, and it beats the options available at chain grocery stores. Very pleased with my first purchase!
Jeanine F.
Shop Capitol Hill Seasoning
Chef Review
Savory Spice has won our loyalty through impeccable customer service. They've assisted in formulating some of our various recipes, including our award-winning botanical gin. Savory Spice's huge range of spices and blends help shape the bar's ever-changing seasonal cocktail menus.
Chef Review
We're really happy about the pricing and quality - especially for the base botanicals for our gins. We've basically structured all of our gins around the Juniper Berries and Coriander we buy from you!
I can always count on receiving high-quality ingredients. Savory Spice is the only brand I use in my kitchen.
Rudy L.
Shop Taco Seasoning
Chef Review
You can't keep me out of Savory Spice. Their team has put together an amazing store that really takes you on a culinary journey, without getting on an airplane. I like the fact that their spices are always fresh, which in my business is important!
Greatest place to buy spices and extracts! They are great at shipping (which is really good as I no longer live in Colorado), but walking into a shop, just to stand there and take in the aroma of the spices is a delight in itself.
Laura H.
Shop Pure Madagascar Vanilla Extract
Chef Review
We've used Savory Spice for our ingredients from the beginning. I was a fan of their shops even before I started my company. Browsing their spices is such a fun way to get meal ideas, and the employees are always so knowledgeable.
We've been shopping in-house & online since moving to Colorado. We love the excellent customer service when in-person & attention to detail when packages are shipped. Years later, our extended family is loving this brand & requesting them for gifts. Thanks for helping us make new traditions and lots of tasty treats!
Chef Review
I know that all the spices we use from Savory Spice are going to be the highest quality and offer delicious flavor. We love the complexity of the Chai Spices for our Chai truffle. The Cayenne Chile and Baking Spice bring our Mayan hot chocolate to life. Savory Spice is a great partner for chocolate!
The Savory Spice team is knowledgeable and helpful. The product is unparalleled. The dip mixes are a favorite. As are the soup mixes. As are the infused salts. As are the spice blends. You get the picture.
Chef Review
We love purchasing spices at their freshest. It makes a noticeable difference in our sauces, soups, and stocks. And I adore visiting our store - it’s like a calming aromatherapy session while I catch up with the amazing staff.
This was my first order from Savory Spice and I already know I will be a long-time loyal customer. You can taste the quality, and it beats the options available at chain grocery stores. Very pleased with my first purchase!
Jeanine F.
Shop Capitol Hill Seasoning
Chef Review
Savory Spice has won our loyalty through impeccable customer service. They've assisted in formulating some of our various recipes, including our award-winning botanical gin. Savory Spice's huge range of spices and blends help shape the bar's ever-changing seasonal cocktail menus.
Chef Review
We're really happy about the pricing and quality - especially for the base botanicals for our gins. We've basically structured all of our gins around the Juniper Berries and Coriander we buy from you!
I can always count on receiving high-quality ingredients. Savory Spice is the only brand I use in my kitchen.
Rudy L.
Shop Taco Seasoning