A spice company in Rochester’s South Wedge neighborhood has been helping chefs and grill masters for 26 years.

Just one trip to Stuart's Spices will teach you that not all spices are created equal. The shop is owned by Vicki Finnefrock and her husband Tom, who create all kinds of spice recipes.

"Yes, we start with premium spices that we grind down in small batches,” said Finnefrock. “No gluten, no MSG.”

The shop welcomes you to open containers and smell.

“Absolutely this is not a store that you just look at things, but you really have to do the smelling,” she continued.

The family took over the shop eight years ago, and they’re passionate about involving the community in their business venture.

“We get to know the chefs and restaurants we work with, the cooks and of course getting to know our customers,” said Finnefrock. “We do not call them customers, we call them fans. They come in regularly and they’re always looking for new things to try on their food at home.”

Some of their meat rubs have fan clubs including the House Hog Rub and Road Kill. They also have classes to help people learn all about the spices and herbs.

"We have classes on salt tastings, pepper tastings. We have a corned beef class coming up in early March so that you can make your own corned beef for St. Patrick’s Day; we have Tex-Mex and Mediterranean classes."

Stuart’s Spices is located on South Clinton Avenue.  It’s open Monday through Friday 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 4 p.m.