The owner of Charkuu 102 began with the idea of creating an idyllic wedding venue. They purchased a piece of property and researched ecologically sound methods of clearing the property to build their barn venue. After some research they decided heritage breed pigs would be perfect to till the land after the trees were cleared. Their first wedding event was held in 2018.
“Pigs are natural rototillers,” explains manager Phil Boucher.
Local pork from the heritage breeds was in high demand.
“They were able to sell them to friends, the next year people were inquiring more. So we kept doing it, and that’s how it expanded and how Charkuu 102 started in the farming business.”
Charkuu 102 has become locally known as an incredible venue for dream weddings. Their crew of event experts help navigate the daunting task of organizing and preparing for the big day. The venue offers shuttle services, groom’s room and a bridal suite. The timber-frame barn is positioned perfectly among the greenery of the boreal forest with seating for 200 people.
They always enjoyed charcuterie. Savoury and sweet creations with varieties of prosciutto, salami, speck, local cheese, roasted garlic, assorted pickles and preserves. They’ve recently expanded to a retail space inside the lively Goods and Co. Market. Everything out of their shop is locally raised from their homestead. Customers can grab gourmet panini sandwiches, charcuterie wraps, plates or boards at their shop with an assortment of choices. Fresh made soups are also available along with sausages.
Charkuu 102’s current sausage offerings are beet and dill, curry maple pistachio, classic Italian and charred pepper with tequila.
“We make our sausages, our salami, our prosciutto, speck, lonza, is all from our animals,” says Boucher.
Their menu pairs well with a cocktail or a glass of wine from the neighbouring Woodside Bar. Goods and Co Market is the perfect venue for Charkuu 102 to showcase their cuisine. Catering to the needs of folks working and shopping downtown who want something quick, delicious and locally sourced. They stay open later on Friday and Saturday to cater to the customers.
Charkuu 102 can produce charcuterie boards for weddings and big events.
“Just reach out to us and we’ll make boards for that. We also do big charcuterie tables, full size tables depending on what the event is.” Sizes can vary. “If your just going out for a weekend, or to a dinner party, we offer 10-person boards or 15-person boards.”
They also have options for two or four person boards to take on a picnic or a date. They can be ordered online for pick up the next day. Charkuu 102’s charcuterie boards are sold with real wood boards, adding an authentic finish to the gourmet platter.
Their products are also available for purchase at Nomad, The Cheese Encounter and Bight Restaurant. They’ve also collaborated with Heartbeat Hot Sauce to make a spicy salami stick made with red habanero which is now available at grocery stores and markets throughout the city.
Check Charkuu 102’s website for more information about their wedding venue, charcuterie, catering and more.
Or visit them in person inside Goods And Co Market at 251 Red River Rd:
- Sunday: 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
- Monday - Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday - Friday: 11:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
- Saturday: 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
