Ask a Local: Cristina Jones Co-Owner, Fish Creek Market

The Jones family knew they had big shoes to fill when they bought the historic Fish Creek Market, the oldest continuously operating grocery store in Door County, founded circa 1892. The iconic Main Street mercantile and specialty grocery still features “Norzwiches” on the deli menu: made-toorder sandwiches (with chips and a cookie) named after the Norz family, who owned the market for a number of decades. “Stopping in to pick up a custom sandwich is steeped in nostalgia for many,” says Cristina Jones, co-owner with her husband, Stephen, “and we’re honored to help continue the tradition while adding a bit of our own spin.”

The market carries its own regional specialties too, like fresh-baked cherry muffins, dry rubs, jams, sauces, craft beer and wine, picnic and charcuterie items, and unique gifts—a diverse variety of items curated in a fun and thoughtful way. Be sure to stop in and say hi to Cristina and Stephen’s daughters, who help prep sandwiches and stock the shelves after school.

Q. What do you like to cook at home?
A. We keep it pretty easy, in the summer especially, with salads and smoked fish. But we’re always making different things. Tacos make an appearance frequently, as well as simple pastas and some Filipino recipes that I grew up with. Our oldest daughter is a great cook and does a lot of it for our family when she’s home from college.

Q. What do you love about living in Door County?
A. Door County has endless water, unspoiled forests, and a community of independent spirits.

Q. What do you like to do in your free time?
A. My husband and I have three daughters — we love to go to the beach, forage for wild mushrooms and ramps, have campfires, watch movies, hang out at home with our pets, try new restaurants, and travel when we can.

Q. What is your favorite local beach?
A. Schoolhouse Beach for the clarity of the water and, of course, its extraordinary rocky shoreline. 

Q. What’s your can’t-miss Door County event?
A. Peninsula School of Art Plein Air Festival because it’s always inspiring to see artists at work outdoors. 

Q. What’s your favorite place for a sweet treat?
A. Beignets from Big Easy Bagel and Beignet.

Q. What’s your favorite restaurant for a special occasion?
A. We love Trixie’s because it has the best low lighting, a fun menu, an inventive wine list, and such a wonderful staff.