Epicuriosity isn’t erudite. We do it every time we wonder what we’re going to eat that will involve equal parts practicality and invention. (Mac and cheese, America’s most mundane dish, was once a fancy 14th century creation. Today, out of the box, it’s open to embellishment.) In this new monthly blog series, we’ll be exploring ethnic grocery stores that introduce flavors with time-tested simplicity, starting with the Middle and Greater East.

SE

International Food Supply

8015 SE Stark St, Portland
503-256-9576
An essential halal market for Sou’easters in Portland.
What to go for: Bulk olive oil station
Downside: You might have to have a buddy system to keep you on task.
Monies: $-$$

SW

Barbur World Foods

9845 SW Barbur Blvd, Portland
503-244-0670
www.worldfoodsportland.com
Lebanese World Foods, founded by John and Mirna Attar, is a popular pit stop. (Their other location is in the Pearl at 830 NW Everett St.)
What to go for: The chef-run deli
Downside: Somewhat spendy
Monies: $$

N/NE

Jeddah Halal Meat and Grocery

2929 N. Russet St, Portland
503-206-5971
sites.google.com/site/jeddahhalalmeat/home
A corner halal with something for everyone and a delivery service.
What to go for: Food items from Africa, Pakistan and India, including hard-to-find ingredients like dried hibiscus.
Downside: No reliable deli or sandwich corner- yet.
Monies: $

NW

Pars International Market

12923 NW Cornell Rd. Portland, Oregon 97229
503-350-2300
pars-market.com
Azar and Iraj will always make sure you leave with a new Persian reciepe or cooking tip.
What to go for: The works – coffees, deli, fresh produce, sweets, spices and cookware.
Downside: Only if you don’t live nearby.
Monies: $-$$