About Zest
A kitchen store rooted in home
Zest Kitchenwares is bringing a thoughtfully curated collection of cookware, tableware, and entertaining essentials to the Triangle. We’re building a warm, welcoming place for people who love to cook, gather, and make everyday moments feel special.
Our Story
Curated with heart
Zest Kitchenwares began with a shared belief that the best homes are built around the kitchen table. Founder Liz Mihalik brings a lifelong love of cooking and more than 20 years of retail experience in beloved local businesses, shaping a store that feels personal, useful, and inspiring.
Together with Susie Kelly and Joel Bulkley, Zest is creating a boutique destination for the Triangle—one filled with beautiful, functional pieces for cooking, dining, and entertaining at home.
Why Zest
Made for gathering
Every product is chosen to help home cooks feel confident, hosts feel prepared, and everyday meals feel a little more joyful. From practical tools to beautiful finishing touches, the collection is meant to serve real life with style and purpose.
With deep local ties and a genuine love for small business, the team is excited to create a store that reflects the warmth, creativity, and community spirit of Chapel Hill and the greater Triangle.
Meet the founders
Zest Kitchenwares is being built by people who care deeply about cooking, community, and the experience of shopping local.
Founder with a lifelong love of cooking and more than 20 years of retail experience at beloved local businesses.
Co-founder and cooking enthusiast who brings warmth, curiosity, and a love of hands-on hobbies to Zest.
Co-founder who champions small businesses and cares deeply about making Chapel Hill an even better hometown.
Home cooks, hosts, and neighbors across the Triangle helping shape what Zest becomes.
A Local Note
Built for the Triangle
We believe a great kitchen store should feel both inspiring and approachable—full of pieces you’ll reach for often and enjoy for years.
As Zest prepares to open, our goal is simple: to become a trusted local source for thoughtful kitchenwares and a place that celebrates cooking, dining, and entertaining at home.
Our mission is to inspire joy and discovery in every kitchen, curating exceptional
products and cultivating a passionate community that celebrates the art and curiosity of home
cooking.
Zest Kitchenwares
We’re excited to welcome the Triangle community and share a collection shaped by experience, curiosity, and a genuine love of gathering people together.
Follow the opening
We’re getting ready to bring Zest Kitchenwares to life. Explore the shop and stay connected as we prepare to welcome home cooks and hosts from across the Triangle.
Coming soon to the Triangle, North Carolina.
