Africa
Barwulu/Hookes African Food Market, 917 E. 222nd St., Euclid, (216) 261-0553. Well-stocked with imported African staples, this small store will introduce you to the world of fufu (plantain flour) and various spices. Hours: Mon-Sat 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. M, V
Calabash African Market, 1918 S. Taylor Road, Cleveland Heights, (216) 371-6641. Stroll to the beat of Ghanaian music while you shop for wentia (a dark-colored soup seasoning) or goat meat ($3.50 per pound) to make some rich African stew. Hours: Tue-Sat 10 a.m. - 8 p.m., Sun 2 - 6 p.m. A, M, V
Asia
Asia Food Co., 3126 St. Clair Ave., Cleveland, (216) 621-1681. With products from Japan to Thailand and points in between, this shop has several takeout options and a fresh-fish section. Stop by on weekends for traditional dim sum. Hours: daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. A, D, DS, M, V
Columbia Asian Food & Gift, 24529 Lorain Ave., North Olmsted, (440) 716-0808. If you're looking for a big jar of Korean kimchee (spicy pickled vegetables) or Japanese udon noodles, this is the place. Hours: Mon-Sat 10 a.m. - 8 p.m., Sun 1:30 - 7 p.m. M, V
Dong Duong Indochina Grocery, 6406 Lorain Ave., Cleveland, (216) 651-8796. Specializing in foods from Cambodia, China, Thailand, Singapore and Vietnam, the grocery is affordable and well-stocked. Hours: Mon-Fri 11 a.m. - 6:30 p.m., Sat and Sun 8:30 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Golden Bakery, 3030 Superior Ave., Suite 108, Cleveland, (216) 233-5032. Offering baked goods popular in Hong Kong and China, its top sellers include 80-cent BBQ pork buns and $5 mocha rolls. Hours: Tue-Fri 9 a.m. - 7 p.m., Sat and Sun 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Good Harvest Foods, 3038 Payne Ave., Cleveland, (216) 861-8018. This grocery caters to those who seek Chinese, Japanese, Korean and Thai products. Walk through the aisles and take part in a learning experience of sights, smells and tastes. Hours: daily 9 a.m. - 8 p.m. A, DS, M, V
Kim's Oriental Food, 3700 Superior Ave., Cleveland, (216) 391-5485. Tucked behind the Korea House restaurant, this store is packed with Chinese, Korean and Japanese goods, from 50-pound rice to miso soup and frozen fish. Korean videos are also available. Hours: Mon, Wed-Sat 10 a.m. - 9 p.m., Tue 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Kobawoo Oriental Food Market, 4709 Pearl Road, Cleveland, (216) 741-0688. Despite its size, this Korean grocer, which also sells Chinese and Japanese items, stocks a good selection if you're in the mood for cooking some spicy traditional dishes. Hours: Mon-Sat 10 a.m. - 9 p.m., Sun noon - 7 p.m. DS, M, V
Oriental Foods & Gifts, 4271 Mayfield Road, South Euclid, (216) 291-1241. This is a one-stop shop for all the Asian products you need, from produce to pickled vegetables and spices from many different Asian countries. Hours: Mon-Sat 10 a.m. - 9 p.m., Sun noon - 6:30 p.m. A, DS, M, V
Nipa Hut, 6775 W. 130th St., Parma Heights, (440) 842-7333. Although Filipino products are the main focus here, there's also a multitude of rare ingredients and produce from other Asian countries. Hours: Mon-Sat 8:30 a.m. - 7:30 p.m. DS, M, V
Saigon Trading USA, 10246 Lorain Ave., Cleveland, (216) 252-3979. In its 15th year, this snug grocery carries a variety of condiments and noodles from China, Japan, Thailand and Vietnam. Hours: daily noon - 8 p.m.
Southeast Asian Food Market, 6108 Lorain Ave., Cleveland, (216) 281-5224. A cozy shop with products from Cambodia, Laos and Thailand, it also stocks healing herbs and spices. It's easy to miss, so drive slowly when near West 61st. Hours: Mon-Sat 11 a.m. - 6 p.m., Sun 1 - 6 p.m.
Sugarland Food Mart, 5790 Ridge Road, Parma, (440) 843-8646. Selling mostly items from the Philippines, this grocery sells customary Southeast Asian ingredients, including the traditional Filipino sausage, longanisa ($3.59). Hours: Mon-Sat 9 a.m. - 6:30 p.m., Sun 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. M, V
Tink Hall Food Market, 2999 Payne Ave., Cleveland, (216) 696-1717. Located in Asia Plaza, the well-stocked aisles of this spacious store contain a wide selection of noodles, spices and other essential ingredients. There's also a fresh-fish department and cooking utensils for sale. Hours: daily 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. M, V
Vietnam Market, 5426 Detroit Ave., Cleveland, (216) 281-7724. Located next to Minh Anh Vietnamese restaurant, the grocery has the items you need to make your own pho, or noodles soup, or the nutty pad thai. It also sells Chinese and Thai products. Hours: daily 9:30 a.m. - 10:30 p.m. M, V
Europe (East)
Buettner's Bakery, 704 E. 185th St., Cleveland, (216) 531-0650. From Slovenian potica (a swirly sweet bread, pronounced paw-tee-tzah) to German nutrolls, this bakery hearkens to European traditions with its sweet treats. Hours: Tue-Fri 7 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Sat 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Sun 9 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
C & H Gertrude Bakery, 6506 Gertrude Ave., Cleveland, (216) 641-7582. Baking fresh loaves of bread and crafting sweet creations, this specialty European bakery is perfect if you desire a bit of East European delicacies on the go. Hours: Wed-Sun 7:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Europa Deli, 6308 Fleet Ave., Cleveland, (216) 271-5822. This Polish grocery store stocks imported goods, as well as such homemade Polish traditions as czarnina soup and potato pancakes. Hours: daily 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Farkas Pastry, 1983 W. 28th St., Cleveland, (216) 281-6200. This tiny store, open twice a week, is the place for authentic tortes, rolls and dobos. Hours: Fri 9 a.m. - 4 p.m., Sat 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Gorby Grocery Store, 4004 Mayfield Road, South Euclid, (216) 382-3006. Although it's tiny, the store will nonetheless provide you with a dose of Russian staples and some frozen foods to reheat for a midafternoon snack. Hours: Mon-Fri 10 a.m. - 8 p.m., Sat 10 a.m. - 7 p.m., Sun 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. A, DS, M, V
Jaworski's Meat Market, 5324 Fleet Ave., Cleveland, (216) 271-4575. This second-generation market features the best of Polish cuisine with its fresh kielbasa ($2.99 per pound) and imported Polish goods. Hours: Tue-Fri 8:30 a.m. - 6 p.m., Sat 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. A, M, V
K & K Meat Shoppe, 6172 Dunham Road, Maple Heights, (216) 662-2644. From paprika bacon to hurka sausage, the meat is plentiful at this family-owned store. Many takeout meals, such as Hungarian chicken paprikash, are available. Hours: 9 a.m. - 6 p.m., Sat 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., Sun 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. A, DS, M, V
Kathy's Kolacke & Pastry Shop, 24961 Detroit Road, Westlake, (440) 835-6570. For a great price, you can taste the sweet Polish kolacke, a flaky pastry with assorted filling (50 cents) or a pepperoni-mozzarella roll. Dine-in seating available. Hours: Tue-Fri 8 a.m. - 6 p.m., Sat 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. A, DS, M, V
Krusinski Finest Meat Products, 6300 Heisley Ave., Cleveland, (216) 441-0100. Located in Slavic Village, this Polish butcher shop prepares its meat fresh every day and sells takeout meals. Hours: Mon, Tue, Thu and Fri 8 a.m. - 5:45 p.m., Sat 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. M, V
Lucy's Sweet Surrender, 12516 Buckeye Road, Cleveland, (216) 752-0828. The variety of pastries here is noteworthy, with such traditional Hungarian treats as krumpli, bite-sized marzipan pastry ($1.50), and grillazs, cookies filled with chocolate cream ($1.50). Hours: Mon-Sat 7 a.m. - 4 p.m. A, D, DS, M, V
Mertie's Hungarian Strudel Shop, 6606 Smith Road, Middleburg Heights, (216) 362-0012. Providing Cleveland with 70 years of service, this is a great place to stock up on such Hungarian pastry favorites as dobos tortes, strudels and ladylocks. Hours: Tue-Fri 8 a.m. - 5 p.m., Sat 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Patria Imports, 794 E. 185th St., Cleveland, (216) 531-6720. This cozy shop offers a selection of meats, cheeses, wines and other food items from Croatia, Germany, Hungary, Lithuania, Poland and Slovenia. Hours: Mon-Sat 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. M, V
Peter's Market, 4617 Turney Road, Garfield Heights, (216) 341-5910. This market sells many Polish goods, as well as a selection of traditional meats, alcoholic beverages and packaged items. Hours: Mon-Thu 8:30 a.m. - 6 p.m., Fri 8 a.m. - 6:30 p.m., Sat 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Raddell's Sausage Shop Inc., 478 E. 152nd St., Cleveland, (216) 486-1944. There's more than sausage at Raddell's, where imported goods also stock the shelves. Try the best-selling Slovenian smoked sausage for $3.99 per pound. Hours: Mon-Sat 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. DS, M, V
R. Kaczur Meats, 712 Broadway Ave., Bedford, (440) 232-6556. This Old World meat shop caters to those who have a craving for Hungarian kolbasz sausage ($3.39 per pound) or authentic homemade hams. Hours: Wed 9 a.m. - 1 p.m., Thu and Fri 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., Sat 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Samosky Home Bakery, 6379 Pearl Road, Parma Heights, (440) 845-3377. Since 1910, this family-run bakery has produced strudels and kolackes on site from scratch. They also sell old-fashioned jellies and noodles. Hours: Tue-Sat 7 a.m. - 4 p.m. A, D, DS, M, V
Smokehouse Deli, 13891 Cedar Road, University Heights, (216) 371-3066. This is more than just your average deli: The store also sells canned products and some sweets. Hours: Mon-Sat 8 a.m. - 8 p.m., Sun 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. M, V
Tommy's Pastries, 14205 Madison Ave., Lakewood, (216) 521-4778. With a recipe direct from Hungary, you'll get the authentic delicacies great for on-the-go breakfasts. Hours: Mon-Sat 5 a.m. - 8 p.m.
T & T Sausage Market, 5901 Fleet Ave., Cleveland, (216) 441-4022. This tenant of Slavic Village makes homemade specialty meats with East European flair, from authentic kielbasi to kiszka (blood sausage). Hours: Wed 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., Thu 9 a.m. - 6 p.m., Fri 9 a.m. - 7 p.m., Sat 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Wojtilas Bakery, 6413 St. Clair Ave., Cleveland, (216) 361-0499; 897 E. 222nd St., Euclid, (216) 731-7080. The specialty here is Slovenian potica, a traditional nutbread, but the stores also sell homemade cookies and pastry trays. Hours: Tue-Sat 6 a.m. - 3 p.m., Sun 7 a.m. - noon.
Europe (West)
Bavarian Pastry Shop, 17004 Madison Ave., Lakewood, (216) 521-1344. With more than 30 pastry varieties and a wide selection of breads, this second-generation bakery uses only natural ingredients and no preservatives. Hours: Mon-Fri 7 a.m. - 7 p.m., Sat 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. A, DS, M, V
Casey's Irish Imports, 19626 Center Ridge Road, Rocky River, (440) 333-8383. If you feel like some Celtic rock music or a bite of Irish soda bread, stop by Casey's and get your dose of Ireland. Hours: Mon-Wed and Fri 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., Thu 10 a.m. - 8 p.m., Sat 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. A, D, M, V
Charles Peters Bakeshop, 4608 Turney Road, Garfield Heights, (216) 641-6887. Since 1927, this bakery has been selling authentic favorites such as paczki ($6.50 a dozen) and a variety of danishes ($8.90 a dozen). Breads and rolls are baked in an old-fashioned brick oven. Hours: Tue-Sat 7 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Der Braumeister Deli, 13046 Lorain Ave., Cleveland, (216) 671-6220. Located within the Braumeister restaurant, this store stocks familiar German beverages and imported goods. The deli sells a variety of cold cuts. Hours: Mon-Fri 11 a.m. - 9 p.m., Sat 3 - 10 p.m. A, DS, M, V
Gaelic Imports, 4882 Pearl Road, Cleveland, (216) 398-1548. Specializing in a wide selection from England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales, this grocer also sells homemade baked goods, such as its top-selling Scottish meat pie ($1.50). Hours: Tue-Sat 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., Sun 1 - 5 p.m. A, DS, M, V
Hansa Import Haus, 2717 Lorain Ave., Cleveland, (216) 281-3177. This German gourmet shop stocks more than 4,500 items imported from Austria, Hungary, Switzerland and Germany. Hours: Mon-Sat 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. M, V
Irish Cottage, 18828 Sloane Ave., Lakewood, (216) 221-6412. Besides the imported Irish clothing and books, this store stocks familiar Irish snacks and condiments. Hours: Mon-Fri 1 - 6 p.m., Sat 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., Sun 12:30 - 5 p.m. DS, M, V
Meat Mart, 10405 W. Pleasant Valley Road, Parma, (440) 845-4935. On top of fresh meats, this butcher shop stocks a good assortment of imported German foods. Shop for smoked sausage and some chocolates and cookies in one convenient visit. Hours: Tue 11 a.m. - 6 p.m., Wed 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., Thu and Fri 9 a.m. - 6 p.m., Sat 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Michael's Bakery, 4478 Broadview Road, Cleveland, (216) 351-7530. They prepare sandwiches on their own homemade breads and import items directly from Germany. The bakery also has a shop at the West Side Market. Hours: Mon-Fri 7 a.m. - 6 p.m., Sat 7 a.m. - 4 p.m. A, DS, M, V
Old Country Sausage, 15711 Libby Road, Maple Heights, (216) 662-5988. More than 40 sausage varieties are made the authentic German way, with no fillers or chemicals. The shop also sells cold cuts, European candies and cheeses. Look for its stand at the West Side Market. Hours: Tue, Wed and Sat 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., Thu 9 a.m. - 6 p.m., Fri 9 a.m. - 7 p.m., Sat 9 a.m. -5 p.m.
On the Rise - Artisan Breads and Pastries, 3471 Fairmount Blvd., Cleveland Heights, (216) 320-9923. Take home some fresh loaves from this charming bakery. Their European-style bread and pastries are great for making the ultimate sandwich. Hours: Tue-Fri 7 a.m. - 6 p.m., Sat 8 a.m. - 5 p.m., Sun 8 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Rudy's Strudel & Bakery, 5580 Ridge Road, Parma, (440) 886-4430. Strudel is the specialty here, although the shop carries other pastries, too. Choose a strudel from an array of flavors including apple, apricot and peach. Hours: Tue-Fri 7 a.m. - 6 p.m., Sat 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. A, DS, M, V
The Sausage Shoppe, 4501 Memphis Ave., Cleveland, (216) 351-5213. With 16 types of bratwurst and several imported meats, this family-run sausage haven has gotten extensive media coverage over the years. Visit www.sausageshoppe.com to order online. Hours: Wed noon - 5 p.m., Thu 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., Fri 9 a.m. - 6 p.m., Sat 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Zoss the Swiss Baker, 12397 Cedar Road, Cleveland Heights, (216) 368-4055. Hours: Tue-Sat 7 a.m. - 4 p.m., Fri 7 a.m. - 6 p.m., Sat 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Cash and checks only; 30779 Pinetree Drive, Pepper Pike, (216) 831-3533. Hours: Mon-Sat 7 a.m. - 6 p.m. M, V. With a new, second location in Pepper Pike, this longtime local bakery has expanded from bread to specialty cakes, tarts, cookies and Italian espressos.
India
Asian Imports, 26885 Brookpark Extension, North Olmsted, (440) 777-8101. With plenty of Indian ingredients for cooking at home and prepared takeout dishes, this is where many go to satisfy their Indian culinary needs. Hours: Tue-Sat 11 a.m. - 7 p.m., Sun 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. DS, M, V
India Food & Spices, 5543 Ridge Road, Parma, (440) 845-0000. This cozy supplier of Indian and Pakistani foods has a wide selection of spices, whatever you need for making some aloo gobi (potatoes and cauliflower) or boti kebab (lamb marinated in yogurt dressing and spices). Hours: Tue-Fri 1 - 7:30 p.m., Sat noon - 7 p.m., Sun 1 - 6 p.m. M, V
Indo-American Foods, 4614 Warrensville Center Road, North Randall, (216) 662-0072. A good place to rent an Indian or Pakistani movie and grab some snacks. It's not big, but you can find cooking essentials and some prepared frozen items here. Hours: Mon-Sat 11 a.m. - 8 p.m., Sun noon - 6:30 p.m. A, DS, M, V
Lakshmi Plaza, 5850 Mayfield Road, Mayfield Heights, (440) 460-4601. It's not as big as the "plaza" name suggests, but still offers a good amount of Indian spices, produce and beans used in many traditional entrees. Hours: Thu-Tue 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. DS, M, V
Patel Brothers, 6876 Pearl Road, Middleburg Heights, (440) 885-4440. This family-owned store stocks produce, spices, flatbreads and other items essential for an authentic Indian meal. They also sell Pakistani goods. Hours: Tue-Sat 11 a.m. - 8 p.m., Sun 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. DS, M, V
Saree Mahal, 20940 Southgate Park Blvd. Maple Heights, (216) 581-9414. From frozen fish to rice and spices, this big market offers an extensive variety of Indian snacks. Hours: daily 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. A, DS, M, V
Latin America/Caribbean
Caribe Bake Shop, 2906 Fulton Road, Cleveland, (216) 281-8194. Find lots of authentic desserts, such as flan and bread pudding, at this Puerto Rican bakery. It also sells canned items and hot foods. Hours: daily 7 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Dailey's West Indian Food Mart, 3019 E. 116th St., Cleveland, (216) 721-7240. The products are Caribbean and range from bottled sauces to fresh produce typical in a Caribbean meal. Hours: Sun-Thu 8 a.m. - midnight, Fri and Sat 8 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. M, V
Dave's Supermarket, 3565 Ridge Road, Cleveland, (216) 961-2000. Hours: Mon-Sat 7 a.m. - 10 p.m., Sun 7 a.m. - 8 p.m. DS, M, V; 2700 Carroll Road, Cleveland, (216) 274-2940. Hours: Mon-Sat 7 a.m. - 9 p.m., Sun 7 a.m. - 8 p.m., DS, M, V. This is one of the largest local suppliers of Latin food products, with such familiar names as Goya arranged neatly on its shelves. You'll most likely find whatever you need here.
La Borincana Foods, 2127 Fulton Road, Cleveland, (216) 651-2351. As one of the biggest and best-stocked stores in the region, the grocery sells products from more than 15 Caribbean and Latin American countries, and even some African goods. Hours: Mon-Fri 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Sat 9 a.m.-7 p.m., Sun 9 a.m.-4 p.m. M, V.
Lelolai Bakery & Café, 1889 W. 25th St., Cleveland, (216) 771-9956. Known for its luscious flan ($1.99) — Spanish custard-coated pastry — this bakery is ranked among the top 200 restaurants in the nation by Gourmet magazine. Hours: Mon-Wed 8 a.m. - 5 p.m., Thu-Sat 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. DS, M, V
Mi Pueblo, 12207 Lorain Ave., Cleveland, (216) 671-6661. With a meat and takeout department and an underground clothing and jewelry store, the roomy store is stocked with everything from cooking wines to chicharrones, or pork rinds ($5.99 per pound). Next door is the Mi Pueblo restaurant. Hours: daily 9 a.m. - 8:30 p.m. A, DS, M, V
Supermercado Rico, 4506 Lorain Ave., Cleveland, (216) 631-1156. Walking down the aisles lets you travel to Mexico and several Caribbean and Latin American countries in one swift stroll. Products such as Goya bacalaÃtos (Puerto Rican codfish fritters) and bito (sweet potatoes) will keep your mouth watering. Hours: Mon-Sat 9 a.m. - 8 p.m., Sun 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Mediterranean
Affamato Ristorante & Market, 30610 Detroit Road, Westlake, (440) 892-1455. The market proffers an extensive selection of Italian ingredients, with a wide range of wines and cheeses. Hours: Mon-Sat 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. A, M, V
Alesci's of South Euclid, 4333 Mayfield Road, South Euclid, (216) 382-5100. Top sellers include prosciutto di Parma ($14.95 per pound) and Reggiano Parmigiano ($12.95) at this big Italian specialty store. Hours: Mon-Sat 9 a.m. - 6 p.m., Sun 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. A, DS, M, V
Anthony's, 12018 Mayfield Road, Little Italy, Cleveland, (216) 791-0700. They have many Italian meals to choose from and cooking essentials, such as sauces, oils and beverages. Hours: Mon-Wed 10 a.m. - 9 p.m., Thu 10 a.m. - 10 p.m., Fri - Sat 10 a.m. - 11 p.m., Sun 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. A, DS, M, V.
Athens Pastries & Imported Foods, 2545 Lorain Ave., Cleveland, (216) 861-8149. Newly remodeled since its 1958 opening, this specialty store carries all things Greek. But it doesn't stop there, also stocking a wide range of beers representing everywhere from Jamaica to Germany. Hours: Mon-Thu 8:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m., Fri and Sat 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. M, V
Baraona's Baking Co. Inc., 15842 Libby Road, Maple Heights, (216) 662-8383. They don't bake bread, but their other pastries, such as the beautifully decorated cassata cake ($18.95), are a good reason to stop by. Hours: Mon 8 a.m.- 4 p.m., Tue-Fri 8 a.m. - 5:30 p.m., Sat 8 a.m. - 5 p.m., Sun 8 a.m. - 1 p.m. A, M, V
Colozza's Bakery, 5880 Ridge Road, Parma, (440) 885-0453. Even before they reach your mouth, the names of the products will make your mouth water. Traditional favorites such as cannoli, krusticki, pacski and potica are only the start of what Colozza's has to offer. Hours: Tue-Sat 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m., Sun 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. DS, M, V
Corbo's Dolceria, 12200 Mayfield Road, Little Italy, Cleveland, (216) 421-8181. Known for its multitiered wedding cakes and Italian cookies, this dolceria has been in business for more than 40 years. Hours: Tue-Thu 8 a.m. - 6 p.m., Fri and Sat 8 a.m. - 10 p.m., Sun 8 a.m. - 1 p.m.
DiStefano's Authentic Italian Foods Inc., 5600 Highland Road, Highland Heights, (440) 442-7775. Whether you're looking for some olive oil or a bite to eat, this store will satisfy your needs. Hours: Mon-Fri 9 a.m. - 8 p.m., Sat 9 a.m. - 6 p.m., Sun 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. A, D, DS, M, V
Fragapane Bakery & Deli, 28625 Lorain Road, North Olmsted, (440) 779-6050. Hours: Tue-Thu 7 a.m. - 6:30 p.m., Fri and Sat 7 a.m. - 7 p.m., Sat 7 a.m. - 4 p.m. A, DS, M, V; 650 Dover Center Road, Bay Village, (440) 871-6340; 7523 Pearl Road, Middleburg Heights, (216) 234-1434. Hours: Tue-Sat 7 a.m. - 6 p.m., Sun 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. With several locations from which to choose, venture out to this Italian bakery for some authentic breads and pastries or to stock up on imported Italian goods.
Gallucci Italian Food, 6610 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, (216) 881-0045. This spacious vendor of Mediterranean products — as well as foods from Australia, Croatia and England (to name a few) — supplies the ingredients you need in extensive variety. You can even shop online at www.tasteitaly.com. Hours: Mon-Fri 8 a.m. - 6 p.m., Sat 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. A, DS, M, V
Giganti's Imported Foods, 9200 Broadview Road, Broadview Heights, (440) 546-4455. A large selection of Italian imported goods is available here. They also make traditional favorites such as rigatoni and Italian subs. Hours: Mon-Thu 9 a.m. - 6 p.m., Fri 8 a.m. - 6 p.m., Sat 8 a.m. - 5 p.m., Sun 9 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. DS, M, V
Giovanni's Meats & Deli, 5716 Mayfield Road, (440) 442-8440. On top of its good assortment of meats, this shop sells cooking utensils for your culinary endeavors. Premade frozen foods are also available. Hours: Mon, Tue, Thu-Sat 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. A, DS, M, V
Molisana Italian Foods, 8037 Broadview Road, Broadview Heights, (440) 526-4141. Many imported Italian products are available here, from wines to canned items. End your meal with a cup of their espresso. Hours: Tue-Fri 9 a.m. - 6 p.m., Sat 8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. M, V
Presti Bakery, 12111 Mayfield Road, Cleveland, (216) 421-3060. In the heart of Little Italy, Presti's is perfect for an Italian lunch or an after-dinner treat from its wide variety of cakes and cookies, as well as stromboli and bruschetta. Hours: Mon-Thu 6 a.m. - 7 p.m., Fri and Sat 6 a.m. - 10 p.m., Sun 6 a.m. - 6 p.m. A, DS, M, V
Rito's Italian Bakery, 10551 W. Pleasant Valley Road, Parma, (440) 845-9414. It doesn't get more Italian than this. Lasagna, pizza and favorite desserts are readily available, as are meats and cheeses. Hours: Mon-Fri 8 a.m. - 7 p.m., Sat 8 a.m. - 6 p.m., Sun 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. A, DS, M, V
The Stone Oven Bakery Café, 2245 Lee Road, Cleveland Heights, (216) 932-3003. There are many sweet desserts and Italian breads sold here. For the ultimate sandwich, try the Siciliano bread. Hours: Mon-Thu 7 a.m. - 10 p.m., Fri 7 a.m. - 11 p.m., Sat 8 a.m. - 11 p.m., Sun 8 a.m. - 9 p.m. A, DS, M, V
Middle East
Aladdin's Baking Co., 1301 Carnegie Ave., Cleveland, (216) 861-0317. Famous for its pita bread, the company supplies its baked goods to more than five states and 2,000 major supermarkets. It also sells spinach pies with hints of Middle Eastern spices ($1.75) and zahtar bread ($1.50), a seasoned flatbread with olive oil, sesame seeds and thyme. Visit www.aladdinbaking.com. Hours: Mon-Sat 7:30 a.m. - 6 p.m., Sun 9 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. A, D, DS, M, V
Almadina Imports, 11550 Lorain Ave., Cleveland, (216) 671-4661. This spacious store includes a full halal meat department (prepared in accordance with Islamic laws) and a variety of takeout foods, such as Iraqi kabobs ($1.50). Hours: daily 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. A, DS, M, V
Amir's Marketplace Restaurant, 4422 Mayfield Road, South Euclid, (216) 291-1800. The grocery within Amir's restaurant is owned and operated by the Rassi brothers. The store also sells its own "Amir Foods" line of hummus and baked pita chips. Visit www.amir-foods.com. Hours: Mon-Thu 11 a.m. - 9 p.m., Fri and Sat 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. A, DS, M, V
Assad's Bakery, 12719 Lorain Ave., Cleveland, (216) 251-5777. Freshly baked pita bread sells for a mere 70 cents, while other affordable products from Egypt, Greece, Italy, Jordan, Lebanon and Turkey are also available. Hours: Mon-Sat 9 a.m. - 9 p.m., Sun 9 a.m. - 8 p.m. A, DS, M, V
Halal Meats, 9418 Detroit Ave., Cleveland, (216) 281-1900. Specializing in halal meats, as the name suggests, they also have an extensive line of beans, grains and other packaged products. Hours: Mon-Sat 9 a.m. - 9 p.m., Sun 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. DS, M, V
Holyland Imports, 12831 Lorain Ave., Cleveland, (216) 671-7736. From prayer rugs to a buffet of olives, the store is packed with a variety of both non-food and food items. It's worth a visit if you're looking for fresh fruits and halal meats. Hours: Mon-Sat 9 a.m. - 9 p.m., Sun 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. A, DS, M, V
Jasmine's Bakery Store, 16700 Lorain Road, Cleveland, (216) 251-3838. This shop stocks a variety of traditional items, including baba ghanouj (a Middle Eastern eggplant purée) and hummus. Hours: Mon-Sat 9 a.m. - 9 a.m., Sun noon - 6 p.m. DS, M, V
Sahara Supermarket, 3353 W. 117th St., (216) 688-1219. The grocery has a roomy, bright atmosphere and offers an extensive array of packaged foods, as well as a glass-encased selection of takeout meals in back. Hours: daily 9 a.m. - 1 a.m. A, DS, M, V
