Edwina Tries… An International Grocery Store

Contributed

Take a shopping trip with Edwina as she tries out a newly expanded New American grocery store. Almadina Supermarket's location may have changed and upgraded, but their friendly service, fresh offerings, and low prices are mainstays.

You've probably driven by the Almadina Supermarket before – formerly at a smaller location down the street, they are now at 2325 Parade St. in a tidy white brick building with welcoming, impressive lighted signage. It's a convenient location, especially for the many New Americans who call East Erie home. That's doubly true for many people who are celebrating Ramadan through March 19. In the spirit of learning more about our neighbors, our city, and always looking for ways to shop locally, I made my way to 23rd and Parade.

When I walked into the store, I was greeted with a smile, and took a few minutes to wander around and take everything in. It's not a huge space, but very well stocked and very well organized with a bodega-type feel. I got the immediate feeling that I could get just about everything I'd need in this one place. To my right was a huge variety of bakery breads, to my left a case of fresh halal meats, and straight ahead was gorgeous produce. I went down every aisle and took everything in from top to bottom. There is a huge variety: spices, tea, canned goods, a dairy case, frozen foods… I even saw Canadian favorites like Bounty bars and ketchup-flavored potato chips!

I'd gone in with a small shopping list in mind and left with some BOGO instant soup (lentil and cream of mushroom varieties), 2 lemons, and active dry yeast packets (my sourdough isn't getting a good oven-spring, so I'm trying a hybrid dough). I talked to the young man at the counter, and I left the store having spent only about $8

On Almadina's website, they describe their business this way: "a family-owned and operated grocery store, we consider every customer as part of our family. Our multinational staff and clientele create a vibrant melting pot of cultures and cuisines, forming a sense of camaraderie that transcends borders." I don't know about you, but especially in the current political climate, that's the kind of vibe I'm looking for. If you're looking for a little culinary adventure in a welcoming atmosphere, you should definitely check out Almadina Supermarket.

Ramadan Mubarak.

Almadina Supermarket is located at 2325 Parade St. and open from 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. daily, 814-240-9002

Edwina is Erie's (self-proclaimed) biggest fan who loves being a tourist in our own town. If you have an idea for something new she should try, you can email her at edwina.capozziello@gmail.com