DYK — 40+ countries are represented in Columbia’s International Corridor? The two-mile stretch of road on Decker Boulevard between I-77 and Two Notch Road is home to several international grocery stores where you’ll find everything from Asian markets to international bakeries.
Whether you’re crafting a Oaxacan mole from scratch (a proper mole takes about three days to craft), looking to broaden your culinary horizons, or searching for an ingredient that tastes like home — we hope this guide to international markets helps you map out a delicious meal.
African + Caribbean
If you’re in search of items from Africa or the Caribbean, these local markets will have what you need, and if they don’t, they’ll work to help source it for you. Pro tip — Fakord’s signature sweet and Fakord Agege Bread is delicious and one of a kind.
- Fakord International, 7366 Two Notch Rd.
- Richway International, 5210 Two Notch Road #B
Asian
These grocers offer everything from fresh veggies (like Bok Choy) to the cooking oils + sauces you’ll need to make homemade Asian dishes.
- 88 Oriental Market, 6795 St Andrews Rd.
- Asian Market, 1221 Bakersfield Rd.
- Asian Grocery Store, 1943 Decker Blvd. # A
- Hyun Dai Oriental Grocery, 1807 Decker Blvd #1
European
These grocers offer a wide selection of food and deli products from Eastern Europe along with German, British, Nordic, and Mediterranean items.
- International Food & Deli, 7536 Woodrow St., Irmo
- European Foods, 120 Sparkleberry Crossing Rd. + 5495 Sunset Blvd., Ste. A, Lexington
Latinx/Hispanic
There is an abundance of Latin grocers in the Midlands offering ingredients from all regions of Mexico. Pro tip — La Estrella is not only a market but a delicious dining spot as well.
- La Estrella, 1921 Airport Blvd., Cayce
- Los Puentes IV, 1735 Decker Blvd. #80
- Rivera’s Supermercado, 1807 Decker Blvd. # 8
- Supermercado El Mariachi, 1078 Sunset Blvd # 8, West Columbia
Middle Eastern
These Middle Eastern markets offer foods like Turkish rices, Lebanese cheese, fresh pita, and teas.
- Halal International, 1601 Broad River Rd.
- Madina Grocery, 10014 Two Notch Rd. J
- Spices of India & Middle Eastern Groceries, 544 St Andrews Rd.
