At Happy Olive in downtown Fairhope, flavor is only the beginning. For owner Sue Rusyniak, every bottle of extra virgin olive oil or balsamic vinegar is a vessel of healing, nourishment and centuries-old tradition.
Since taking over the beloved shop in 2020, Rusyniak has transformed it into more than a gourmet marketplace—it’s a wellness destination rooted in the Mediterranean lifestyle. With family ties to Italy and frequent trips abroad to visit producers, she’s become a fervent advocate for the power of premium oils and vinegars to elevate health and enrich daily life.
“We’re not just selling olive oil—we’re educating people on how these products can truly transform their well-being,” she said.
Happy Olive’s shelves are lined with robust, high-biophenol EVOOs—harvested at peak freshness from groves in Spain, Italy, Greece and Australia. These oils are rich in oleocanthal, a natural anti-inflammatory compound shown to act similarly to ibuprofen in the body. Just a teaspoon daily can reduce inflammation, while two to three tablespoons a day may help lower blood pressure and support heart and brain health.
With a product lineup that rotates based on hemisphere and harvest, freshness is key. “What’s on our shelves is never warehouse-aged,” Rusyniak said. “It’s all about quality, health benefits and sharing ideas straight from our kitchen to yours.”
One standout: the Kalamata Reserve Oil from Greece, known for its high oleocanthal levels—up to 67 percent of its total phenolic content.
In addition to olive oils, Happy Olive imports over two dozen aged balsamic vinegars from Modena, Italy. To make exploring new combinations easy and fun, Rusyniak curates a “Pairing of the Month.” June’s duo features a bright Lemon-fused EVOO and Cascadian White Raspberry Balsamic—perfect for summer salads, marinades or simply drizzled over fruit. “It makes a perfect gift,” she says, a gift of flavor and health.
Along with an expanded online selection, the shop recently expanded, doubling in size, offering curated gifts, regional products, teas, spices, Ronaldo Jewelry and Etta B pottery. Great for Corporate gifts or gifts for any occasion.
Happy Olive is located at 314 De La Mare Ave. in Fairhope. Open Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, visit HappyOlive4.com.
