Why is our company called Opa's Granola?
We're so glad you asked. Opa is our family's VIP and the inspiration behind our brand. He's our 91 year-old grandpa who brings ease, warmth and witty humor to every room he steps in.
Let's take it back: Opa was born on May 17, 1935 in Ittlingen, Germany, a small town in the south western part of the country. As the Nazi party rose in power, Opa's parents, aunt and grandmother fled the country to join his cousins in the United States. Their new home would be Washington Heights in New York City. The neighborhood was later named "Frankfurt on the Hudson," because of the mass migration of Germans seeking refuge and community in the area.
181st and St. Nicholas Avenue (1938)
Opa and his mother Betty in Germany (1937)
Opa took us around his old digs a few months ago (something I can't believe has taken us so long to do). We had the cameras rolling to capture every story and every cheeky memory on record. The neighborhood still has the same vibrant and generous spirit that Opa described from his childhood, plus a few more coffee shops and high rise buildings.
Opa's story is built on hard work, care, and a lot o' love. That's what we try to put into every batch.
We're launching this winter. Know someone who'd want in? Forward this email to them.
Opa in front of his childhood building (2026)
If you were forwarded this newsletter, lucky you!
Your support means the world to us.
Xo,
Arielle and Sean