In the past, I have been known to drive my friends and/or lovers crazy by dragging them to an amazing market or bookstore only to abandon them while I scour every aisle, examine every exotic import or scan every title on the shelves. I’ve learned that it’s best if I go by myself. Not only does flying solo allow me to stay as long as I like, but it eliminates that pesky feeling that I’m boring the crap out of someone.
Or maybe I just need new friends.
One place where I love to kill a few hours is Kalustyan’s. Although they are known primarily as an Indian market with a vas
t collection of spices, you will find plenty of other exotic fare to keep you occupied. In the bulk food section you will find chunky dried papaya, bins of red and green lentils, dried chickpeas and many types of rice. There are all sorts of curious canned and bottled goods – check out their collections of chutneys, curries and imported ghee. Wander towards the back of the store to discover a refrigerated section with items like fresh lime leaf and yogurt. I always make sure to hit the Indian snack food section – my favorite are crunchy, spicy spirals called Chakli.
Head up the narrow staircase to find household items like tea kettles, tagines, and coconut scrapers, as well as a tiny deli where you can get a quick snack or pick up some paneer for a recipe.
Did I mention dessert? They have that, too, right up by the register and alongside fresh plums and mangoes. They have incense and soap and a mini apothecary along an aisle so cramped it is basically a one way street. The whole store is packed into a pretty small space so don’t bring any excess baggage – or your friends!
Kalustyan’s
www.kalustyans.com (many products available online)
123 Lexington Ave.
New York, NY 10016
212-685-3451
Tags: food, great places, imports, indian, indian market, kalustyan's, market, melissa sands, specialty store, spices
