OAKHURST – Since Kandie Stier opened The Produce Place in 2010, she has created a bright and inviting spot for people to stop in for a nice interlude during their day, check their e-mail using her free wifi, and enjoy delicious soups, sandwiches and fresh produce.Though she’s a very busy lady, Kandie is always gracious and accommodating. During the Heritage Days parade, when her parking lot was roped off and the street was lined with spectators, Kandie had no problem making her restrooms available to those who came in searching for relief. There was none of the “our restrooms are for customers only” attitude.
“I keep my restrooms clean, and it was no big deal to just add a few extra rolls of toilet paper,” she said.
The Produce Place is also a great homework hangout for kids after school. Not only is the location perfect, at the corner of Road 426 and School Road, they have free wifi and healthy food options.
Gift cards are also available for your students, and Kandie will even keep them on file for you. You’ll get an extra 10% on your gift card if you purchase by Friday at 3 p.m.
Kandie was a great sport in answering five questions I posed to her:
Q: What on earth made you open a restaurant?
A: Funny that you ask that! I started out by selling produce on the corner with my boy Blake, who was about twelve at the time. I suggested opening “a little lunch place” to my husband. He said, ABSOLUTLY NOT– RESTAURANTS DON’T MAKE IT. Not exactly sure what made me continue, other than that’s who I am – maybe just to prove it to “you” that it too will make it. With hard work and determination we are still here.
Q; What was the last book you read?
A; Book what’s a book??? At this point I only know what a measuring cup is and that my hand holds enough salt twice for a huge pot of split pea soup.
Q; What would I find in your refrigerator right now?
A; Seems as though I only have left over Produce Place “take out” in my fridge and coffee creamer. Coffee is worthless without it.
Q; I know you have six kids and a husband, but if you had to evacuate your home immediately, and could take only one thing, what would it be, and why?
A; UMMMM!!! Don’t stress me out on choosing one thing —– one good bra! uhhh— you know why! Nothing is less attractive than out-of-place boobies.
Q; What would you want your last meal to be?
A; Pizza
