Updated June 29, 2026

A good international market is more than a place to buy unfamiliar products. It is a bridge between family traditions, regional cooking and the simple pleasure of trying something new.

Shelves of global foods at Mariakakis in Chapel Hill

Start with a dish you already enjoy

Exploring a new cuisine does not require buying an entire pantry at once. Begin with a dish you know—Greek salad, risotto, pasta, hummus, stuffed grape leaves or pierogi—and focus on one or two ingredients that make the largest difference.

That might be a better feta, a particular olive oil, imported tomatoes, the right rice, a regional spice blend or a frozen pastry made in the traditional style. Small upgrades make the experience approachable and help you learn what each ingredient contributes.

Use the market as a source of knowledge

At Mariakakis, customers can ask how a cheese melts, whether an oil is better for cooking or finishing, what spice belongs in a recipe, or which product works as a substitute. That conversation is often more valuable than a long label or an online review.

Bring the recipe, a photograph of the package you remember, or even a rough description. The family may recognize the item or point you toward the correct department.

Build a flexible international pantry

A few versatile ingredients can support many meals. Olive oil, vinegars, grains, pasta, legumes, preserved vegetables, spices, cheese and jarred condiments are useful across multiple cuisines.

  • Choose one cooking oil and one finishing oil.
  • Keep a grain or pasta suited to quick meals.
  • Add a bold condiment such as ajvar, harissa or pomegranate molasses.
  • Use a regional cheese to turn vegetables, bread or eggs into a complete meal.
  • Keep a sweet or coffee on hand for an easy finish.

Let season and availability guide you

Imported products do not always arrive on a predictable schedule. Seasonal sweets, holiday foods, specific cheese sizes and limited wine shipments may appear for a short time. Regular visits—and an occasional call before driving over—are part of the experience.

Explore the product departments, browse the Greek food selection or plan a visit to the Chapel Hill market.