Blogger eats her words after a visit to Lincoln, Nebraska (including a stop at Licorice International)

Avid blogger Liz von Achen (known for her humorous blog "Singing  Toes") previously blogged that she thought Nebraska smelled like cow dung. But after a day trip to Lincoln, she developed a new appreciation for Nebraska's "fertile aroma."

While strolling through Lincoln's Historic Haymarket in search of an authentic Nebraska hamburger, she noticed the sign for Licorice International and decided to stop and check out the retail store. Here's what she had to say about her visit:

Upon entering, I was warmly greeted by co-owner Elizabeth, who immediately offered tasty samplings of traditional red and black licorice pieces. She then gave a tour of the shop and invited me to sample as many gourmet licorice flavors as I’d like.

Licorice International Inc. offers more than 160 types of licorice from 14 countries, the largest selection of black licorice, gourmet licorice and European licorice available in the United States. Elizabeth described the company’s roots as a mail order business started by a NYC confectioner named Larry Ring. When Elizabeth and her partner Ardith purchased the company in 2002, they developed the http://www.licoriceinternational.com/ website, and began fulfilling orders from their homes. Growth of the business led them to rent a facility for processing internet and mail orders, which then led to its current 4,450 square foot retail shop in Lincoln’s historic Haymarket district.

I sampled and purchased several gourmet twist flavors among many; cinnamon, orange, green apple, grape. As well as soothing licorice spice tea, and some anise mints from France.

Upon hearing of my cross-country road trip and plans to blog, Elizabeth graciously offered to take a photo of me with my camera, explaining that if I sent my photo to their site, they would post it, and share a link. Elizabeth and Ardith also conferred and directed me on my burger-quest to Lazlo’s.

Later, I reflected upon my visit to the lovely licorice shop. I must say, I was somewhat taken aback by just how pleasant Elizabeth and Ardith were to meet. Their earnest kindness and hospitality seemed quite unnecessary; they had me at "free samples."

So did Liz ever find her burger?  What else did she see in Lincoln? You can read her entire blog post about her visit here.

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