The old school suburb of Torrensville that sits just a coupla minutes west of Adelaide’s CBD is proving to be a bit of a hot spot as of late. First a low-key record store popped up, then a quaint florist, next was a glorious coffee shop, and now The Happy Jar – a bulk foods store and cafe right on the main drag of Henley Beach Road.
The wholesome corner store is family-run and owned with a vision to help the people of Adelaide tread more gently on the planet, all while living healthily and sustainably. Jocelyn Morrison Butler alongside her partner, Marc and daughter, Jessica are the trio who run the show and they’re passionate about making an impact on the community.
“Over the last number of years, Marc and I have become more aware of our own footprint on the planet and wanted to engage in a business that will help in some way to reduce that footprint. And so, the Happy Jar was born with the objective of reducing plastic waste, food waste and also introducing people to the benefits of adopting a more plant-based diet and reducing the demand for industrialised animal agriculture,” Jocelyn shares.
The Happy Jar primarily offers plant-based wholefood products where certified organic stamps aren’t an unusual sight. Cereals, nuts, teas, coffee, herbs, pulses, pastas, dried fruit and snacks fill the large vats. While honeys, maple syrup, tahini, olive oil, vinegars and cleaning products in bulk can be found in a self-dispensing wall. And the shelving home to essentials such as moisturisers, deodorants, and lip balms all in fully compostable containers.
“One of our other objectives has been to source products from South Australia where possible. For example, we have lovely plant-based treats in our cafe made by Chlo’s Vegan Club, sauerkrauts and kimchi from the Gut Feeling, vegan cheeses from Studio Voodoo, Hark coffee, juice from The Juice Brothers, pastas and sauces from L’Abruzzese, vegan dog treats by Veggie Paws, Sticky Pronk surf wax, and Live Kombucha – all producers from South Australia,” Jocelyn says.
On the other hand, it’s not every day that bulk food stores double as eateries, Jocelyn says, “Our cafe primarily offers plant-based food and beverages to demonstrate to people that plant-based diets can be easy and tasty.”
The Happy Jar’s cafe menu enlists healthful options with the likes of smoothie bowls and salads, but also sees melty toasties including: the HCT of faux ham, grilled cheese, tomato and red onion; and the Ultimate Veggie insandwiching maple roasted pumpkin, eggplant and bell pepper with creamy pesto and grilled cheese.
And on top of that, Jocelyn shares the delightful news that The Happy Jar have also obtained a liquor license and offer vegan wines and a couple of beers, “so that people can sit and relax with a wine and a bite to eat in the afternoon should they wish to.”
As for the future, “We plan to introduce educational evenings where we can call upon climate change experts and plant-based diet experts to give presentations to help people to learn more about these topics,” Jocelyn mentions.
The Happy Jar is open Mondays through to Fridays from 8am to 5pm, Saturdays between 8am and 4pm, and Sunday from 10am until 3pm. Duck in if you’re running low on stocks or stay a while and sip on a summery wine in the early arvo, or heck, even the morning.
All images supplied.