These grocery stores – dedicated to MKE’s Middle Eastern, Ukrainian, Asian, Indian and other communities – are treasure troves. But it’s also easy to find something special, as we did here, at each one:
1. Tatsoi from Asian International Market
3401 W. NATIONAL AVE.
The west wall of this store is basically one giant produce cooler, stocked with oodles of leafy greens, including tatsoi – a great alternative for fresh spinach in salads.
2. Flatbread from Indian Groceries & Spices
10701 W. NORTH AVE., WAUWATOSA
Tandoor oven-baked naans, stuffed paratha and griddle-cooked whole wheat roti, some the size of a beach ball, fresh or frozen.
It’s time to pick your Milwaukee favorites for the year!
3. Pickled Herring from European Foods & Gifts
3557 N. OAKLAND AVE.
In Ukraine, this preserved fish is served with pickled vegetables on rye bread with sour cream and onion. Find it shelved alongside caviar and smoked mackerel.
4. Pączki from Wioletta’s Polish Market
3955 S. HOWELL AVE.
The Polish filled doughnut associated with Fat Tuesday is offered every day here, and in three flavors – plum, raspberry and Bavarian cream.
5. Halva from Holy Land Grocery & Deli
2755 S. RAMSEY AVE., GREENFIELD
The dense, fudge-like tahini candy was created in Persia some 14 centuries ago, as legend has it. You can buy enough of it here to keep you supplied for months.
6. Giardiniera from Glorioso’s
1011 E. BRADY ST.
This pickled vegetable condiment comes in mild or hot varieties and brings a tangy, spicy bite to sandwiches, hot dogs and more.
7. Halal Lamb from Attari Supermarket
3042 S. 13TH ST.
All the meat sold here – lamb chops, rib, tongue, even feet – is slaughtered and prepared according to Islamic law.
8. Chicharron from El Rey
FOUR LOCATIONS
Puffy, crispy deep-fried pork skins are like the potato chip of Mexico. El Rey offers them in original and hot flavors.
