The specialty store features a wide selection of goods from local sellers and harkens back to a simpler pace of life. Plus, it’s the perfect place if you fancy a proper charcuterie, too.
If you’re in search of a relaxing day trip away from the hustle and bustle of the big city, take a short drive north to historic Cedarburg. Located just 20 miles outside of Milwaukee, this charming riverfront town is home to one of the Most Beautiful Main Streets in America and offers a return to a simpler pace of life.
But that doesn’t mean there isn’t plenty to see and do.
Strolling along tree-lined Washington Avenue, visitors will find an array of alluring restaurants, historic inns, art galleries, and specialty shops — with many of the businesses housed in Cedarburg’s lovingly preserved limestone buildings, including one recent addition to the local landscape, Frannie’s Market.
Just a few blocks south of the historic Washington House Inn, Frannie's Market is an ode to the good ole days when most people bought their specialty foods and provisions from local Ma and Pop stores, rather than the retail giants.
The shop harkens back to the turn of the century with an updated farmhouse-chic aesthetic and features a wide selection of quality goods from across Wisconsin and the Midwest.
On the impeccably lined shelves, there’s truly something for everybody. Frannie’s offers a variety of pantry staples, baked goods, specialty cheeses, beer and wine, housewares, plants, pottery, and more, many of which are sourced directly from local artisans and makers.
All of that is by design. Opened in 2020, owner Sarah Prasser saw a need to support small businesses during the pandemic and, after traveling overseas and working in hospitality, was looking for a place to lay down her own roots. As a city steeped in rich history and tradition, Cedarburg felt like the perfect home for a fresh start.
The shop’s name “Frannie’s” was inspired by the name of her great-grandmother Frances, which is also Prasser’s middle name. But her love of baking and entertaining came from her watching her mother create special moments in the kitchen.
The art of hosting intimate events was something Prasser wanted to bring to Frannie’s Market. In addition to shopping, guests are invited to learn something new during one of the shop’s fun, in-person classes. Since launching, Frannie’s guests have learned how to make charcuterie boards, create mounted plants and terrariums, and tried their hands in the kitchen, including a class on baking pretzel bread.
Frannie’s Market is open Wednesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., and on Sundays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. You can learn more about Frannie’s Market on its website or shop its selection of local products online.
