SMOKE & TEARS ESSENTIAL HOT SAUCE

SMOKE & TEARS is a Toronto-based hot sauce manufacturer crafting chef-developed, small-batch gourmet sauces designed to elevate everyday meals through flavour complexity rather than extreme heat.

 

Founded in 2021 by Shannon Armishaw and Chef Kevin Rickey, we combine culinary technique with the art and science of traditional pickling and smoking to create versatile, international award-winning Essential Hot Sauces made in Ontario.

SMOKE & TEARS sauces are plant-based and clean-label, formulated without gluten, dairy, nuts, additives, or preservatives. We use no fillers and no unnecessary dilution, ensuring each bottle delivers concentrated flavour with integrity. Our distinctive, unique flavours are low in sodium and sugar while achieving a full spectrum of taste.

Each sauce is built to balance spicy, smoky, sweet, salty, tart, bitter, and umami notes, making them suitable for both adventurous cooks and everyday use. Heat-seekers & the spice-shy of all ages have joined our growing community of Friends & Lovers.

Proudly made in Toronto, SMOKE & TEARS has earned national and international recognition, awards and press with a growing reputation for chef-crafted, design-forward sauces that prioritize flavour, versatility, and quality ingredients.

 

After six years of organic direct-to-consumer growth and the development of over 40 original recipes, SMOKE & TEARS is now entering retail with a refined core lineup, expanding availability across Ontario and beyond.