Photograph by Devyn Glista
With locations in both Findlay Market and Walnut Hills, ETC has made a name for itself as the place to go for all things local. In the bigger Walnut Hills location, you’ll find grocery products of all kinds—butter, mushrooms, bread, pasta, popcorn, baking mix, eggs, beer, you name it—most of which are from the Cincinnati area with a special label telling you all about the producer. In fact, ETC partners with more than 150 local farms and artisans to stock its shelves. ♦ 954 E. McMillan St., Unit A, Walnut Hills, (513) 407-6257
Clifton Market is a full‑service grocery, deli, bakery, and bottle shop in the heart of the Ludlow Business District. Under local ownership since the late 2010s, the market specializes in local produce not always found in national chain stores, grab‑and‑go deli items, craft beer, wines, and a bevy of international foods. The rotating weekly specials—recent examples include fresh curry cut chicken or marinated tilapia—help ensure that customers keep coming in. ♦ 319 Ludlow Ave., Clifton, (513) 861-3000
Darou Salam Store Halal Market
Bookended by Shake It Records and The Park Diner in Northside, Darou Salam is a Senegalese halal market and eat‑in shop known for generous portions of food, affordable prices, and friendly staff. Locals and foodies alike celebrate the market’s authentic thiebou jenn, poulet braisé, and bold West African spices. The store is packed with grocery staples alongside personal care products, home decor, and a small selection of fresh produce. It’s a treasure trove of both specialty and everyday items. ♦ 4158 Hamilton Ave., Northside, (513) 681-3888
The Country Meat Co. Marketplace
Country Meat Co. Marketplace opened in February and has quickly become a fundamental spot for shoppers in the Avondale area. This full-service Black-owned grocery store brings fresh quality produce and meat to a neighborhood that’s long been a food desert. Plus, Country Meat Co. Marketplace partners with local farms and producers to provide customers with the ultimate “CityFresh” experience. ♦ 3539 Reading Rd., Avondale, (513) 715-3663
Coco Sakula Japanese Grocery Store
If you’re looking for a strictly Japanese shopping experience, Coco Sakula is the way to go. In just one small store, you’ll find authentic staples like noodles and tempura flour, specialty produce, ready-to-eat onigiri, fresh baked goods, frozen treats, fun snacks, and even a Gashapon station with blind capsule toys. There are also local Japanese language publications available at the store for native speakers. ♦ 10738 Reading Rd., Evendale, (513) 407-7731
This Asian grocery store has been a mainstay in the city since 2002 with food and ingredients from multiple different countries and cultures. In addition to the many aisles of pantry basics like rice, miso paste, ramen noodles, spices, and snacks, CAM has a wide selection of meat and fish (with nearly unbeatable prices), fresh baked goods, a prominent produce section, and a special area dedicated to unique loose-leaf tea options. ♦ 10400 Reading Rd. #145, Evendale, (513) 733-1828
The staff and owners of El Valle Verde know how to show shoppers a good time. The colorful shelves loaded with quality Hispanic groceries combine with a lively playlist and piñatas hanging from the ceiling to make shopping feel like a party. Pick up some fresh limes, beef, and locally made tres leches cake for the neighborhood carne asada. Don’t forget to snag some fresh tamales by the check-out. ♦ 7045 Vine St., Carthage, (513) 821-5400
Jerusalem Food & Bakery
Customers looking for authentic Middle Eastern and Mediterranean products have been shopping at Jerusalem Food for more than 20 years. Don’t miss the creamy, homemade hummus or the fresh falafel. You can also find a variety of meats, including lamb, beef, and chicken. And no shopping trip is complete without a stop at the bakery, where fluffy pita, pizza, and other traditional baked goods are made from scratch. ♦ 300 Northland Blvd., Springdale, (513) 771-8888
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