November 2024: Chuckleberry Trading Co.

CHUCKLEBERRY TRADING CO.

3054 Dundas St West

Born from a strong friendship formed during their long hours bartending, a passion for cooking, and the belief that good food should be convenient and affordable, Stuart O’Hara and Charles Veysey started Chukleberry Trading Co. in 2020. They opened during the pandemic with a shared vision, driven by Charles’ passion for cooking and Stuart’s determination to get their products into the world. The pair worked hard to bring their signature jars of unique sauces, side dishes, and desserts to farmers’ markets all over the city. 

Chuckleberry opened its Junction storefront, Chuckleberry Emporium, in 2023, allowing them to branch out and expand their offerings. The Junction was a natural choice for Stuart and Charles to begin this new chapter. They both deeply love the neighbourhood and consider it one of the best in the world. As Charles puts it, The New Yorker once dubbed the Junction the “Brooklyn of Canada”—but he prefers to think of Brooklyn as the Junction of the U.S.

The unique name originates from Charles’ childhood nickname, “Chuckleberry Finn”. Charles absolutely hated this nickname growing up, but when launching the business, he and Stuart decided to turn that negative into a positive and embrace the name “Chuckleberry.”

Chuckleberry Trading Company’s goal is to make the world a more fun and tasty place.  Every jar they sell is made in small batches, filled, and labelled by hand. As a food company, they don’t have a single style, only passion and love for every product, which they use to create an array of tasty treats to enhance their customers’ food game from start to finish. Their delicious range of products caters to every kind of chef and dish, from their signature CB Sauce to their zesty Chimichurri. 

The menu at Chuckleberry is constantly evolving, focusing on seasonal ingredients. Some Fall favourites include Quinoa Hummus Bowls, Watermelon Gazpacho, German-style potato salad, indulgent ice cream sandwiches, and cheesecake in a jar. Their physical location has also allowed them to expand into offering a rotating takeout menu featuring quick bites like sausage rolls and French onion tarts—ideal for a satisfying lunch on the go.

Charles and Stuart’s love for food goes beyond the kitchen. Even after a busy day at work, they both enjoy cooking with their families, finding it to be a perfect way to unwind and connect with loved ones. Cycling is another shared hobby, and whenever a bike needs attention, they head to The Bike Place in the Junction for excellent mechanical service and customer care. As self-proclaimed foodies, they also appreciate the vibrant restaurant scene in the Junction, citing Dirty Food as one of their favourites.

Chuckleberry Trading Company was created out of the dream of two friends who wanted to enjoy life and be their own bosses while making the world a little tastier. They are grateful for the support and enthusiasm from the Junction community, with many of their customers becoming both regulars and friends. They’re excited to continue growing, expanding their offerings, and sharing their passion for great food with everyone. Be sure to visit their website for the latest updates on new products and specials!

Member of the Month

Our Member of the Month features will shine a light on the businesses within the Junction and allow customers to get to know their neighbours who run the shops in our community. If you are a Junction BIA business interested in sharing your story with us and being featured by The Junction BIA, contact Carol Jolly, Executive Director

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