The Cook Store celebrates 40 years

The Cook Store is celebrating its 40th anniversary on April 1.

Owner Wesley Lassen has run the shop for the past 16 years.

Founded by Sam Franks in 1975, The Cook Store was originally called The Kitchen Shoppe. Franks sold it to Betty Knight, who changed its name. Lassen, the third owner of the store, said she could not be happier being a part of the cooking and entertainment world that she loved as a child.

“It’s just a really fun business to be in,” Lassen said.

The shop is nestled on the end of Mountain Brook Village under a black awning with a chef statue that holds a friendly welcome sign. Once inside, customers are met with a wall-to-wall display of every possible gadget, utensil, basket, pan or bowl related to cooking. Whether you are looking for a functional kitchen item or funky gift for a friend, there are plenty of options in this room.

Its front room displays unique pottery from local artists and items from artists in Chicago, North Carolina, New Hampshire and Mississippi. Local artists include Earthbound Studios, Stonegate Pottery and Wade Oliver Pottery.