Popn’ Off Chicago-Inspired Popcorn Shop Opens in Augusta

Popn' Off Gourmet Popcorn and Nuts opened late last year at 716 Broad Street in Augusta. The shop brings Chicago-style snacks to downtown. Owner Sheila Jones launched this venture next to the Miller Theater after relocating from Chicago, where she said the specialty has a huge following.

"I'm from Chicago, where gourmet popcorn is kind of a big deal," Jones told WRDW.

The store carries caramel, strawberry drizzle, peppermint, Oreo, green apple, and peanut butter varieties. Everything gets made in-house.

Jones said the aroma pulls people in before they reach the counter. "The smell is part of the experience. Green apple, strawberry, strawberry drizzle with chocolate. We have a new peanut butter flavor I just did," she said.

Jones moved to Augusta and launched the shop for her son who is on the autism spectrum. She wanted him to feel more at ease in the area and have something built for his future. The shop will serve as a safe business for her son to work at when he gets older.

The owner runs most operations herself with some help from family. Starting has been tougher than she anticipated, but the purpose keeps her moving forward.

Popn' Off Gourmet Popcorn and Nuts is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. The shop is also holding a pop-up on Saturday at noon on Gordon Highway.