The Happy Cook came into existence in 1969 as a small country store in Keswick, VA where the founders Jean Carswell and her husband lived. In 1972, The Happy Cook moved to The Barracks Road Shopping Center. Originally, the store was adjacent to Chimney Corner, which was also owned by the Carswells. The Happy Cook was purchased in 1997 by Court and Tammye Van Clief, who gave the business a substantial “face lift.” These renovations transformed The Happy Cook from a hardware style kitchen shop to the gourmet boutique you see today. In 2005, The Happy Cook came under the ownership of Monique Moshier. Monique, a graduate of Sweet Briar College, has always possessed a passion for cooking and all things culinary. With a background in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Monique did not set out to own a gourmet kitchen shop, but the opportunity was one that she could not pass up. Monique is determined to maintain the tradition of excellence and service that has made The Happy Cook a delightful retreat for over thirty-five years. As customers walk into The Happy Cook, many feel as though they are entering one of the cozy kitchen shops of Europe. The Happy Cook has been modeled after one of the most famous culinary shops in France, E. Dehillerin in the 1st arrondissement of Paris. This notable kitchen shop supplies some of the best chefs in the world, as well as every day Parisians, with professional cookware, bakeware, and pastry tools. As an independent and locally owned business, we pride ourselves in being able to offer that same service to the Charlottesville community. In order to provide the best service, employees have extensive culinary knowledge and many have had experience in professional kitchens as well. When you come into The Happy Cook you will find someone who will take the time to give you informed advice about product selection as well as cooking tips. Whether you are a professional chef looking for cutlery, a home cook in search of cookie sheets or you just love to entertain, The Happy Cook can help you find just what you’re looking for. |