Who doesn’t love visiting a general store? These special shops were once the backbone of every community, but sadly, these days they are increasingly rare. In most towns, these charming old-fashioned local businesses have been replaced by big box stores, but there are actually a few left in Florida with histories that go back more than a century. One of the best examples of a long-running general store that’s still successful today is the P.P. Cobb General Store in Fort Pierce.
The building that houses P.P. Cobb goes all the way back to 1882, when it became the first store in Fort Pierce. It was originally a trading post, and it became a general store in 1896 when it was purchased by Peter Cobb.
Walking by this buidling in historic downtown Fort Pierce you can tell it's old, but the kind of goods you'll find inside has changed a lot since the 1890s. The products you'll find at P.P. Cobb today are a blend of both modern and nostalgic favorites.
The shelves are stocked with a wide variety of candy, specialty sodas and craft and imported beers (500 varieties). There are also unique gifts, handmade soaps, local honey, hot sauces, snacks and other interesting items you won't find anywhere else.
Yuko Weisser, who is also the restaurant's chef, serves dishes influenced by her Japanese heritage and other ethnic cuisine, along with both classic and creative soups, sandwiches and breakfasts.
Next time you're in town, check out this historic and eclectic general store and restaurant. Not only can you enjoy a delicious meal on the old front porch, you're sure to find something neat to take home.
