The influx of Indian culture in the United States, including the bright and flavorful traditions of Indian cooking, have resulted in a great deal of specialty establishments over the years, and quality Indian restaurants are perhaps chief among them. But while great pleasure can be had in being served an authentic and tasty meal at your favorite restaurant, little can compare to the satisfaction and enjoyment of creating your own culinary delights at home. Indian grocery stores make this possible, and most offer many goods for your life outside the kitchen, too. If you're looking for Philadelphia Desi groceries, you're in luck - the city offers an enviable selection of specialty shops. This quick guide can help you locate the right Indian grocery store for you and your home.


Royal India Supermarket on Lancaster Avenue draws shoppers with its array of house-made Indian bites, and keeps them coming with a fantastic and nicely priced selection of specialty goods. Fresh from the oven Samosas, Vegetable Puffs, and Khaman Dokla are offered hot every day alongside flavorful chappatis, Jalebi, and Kesar Peda. Venture beyond the tempting kitchen offerings to find a dazzling selection of fresh fruits and vegetables, dairy products, meats, grains, and of course a fully stocked spice cabinet. Find saffron, cumin, cardamom, garam masala, and all your other favorite curry spices. A good assortment of frozen choices and fun new items including ice creams and prepackaged sweets give Royal India a special edge. A Bollywood DVD rental and film conversion service allows customers to catch their favorite flicks, and essential household goods from traditional cooking supplies to fashionable tapestries and handsomely made deity sculptures create an all-around excellent spot for procuring Indian goods for your home. Special events are held weekly at the store, and specials update constantly. The grocer entices chefs and hungry shoppers with a free and flavorful recipe idea center. When you need to stock up for a feast or feel like adding a touch of Indian style to your abode, Royal India Supermarket is a fantastic choice.


Chestnut Street's adorably-named Rice-N-Spice offers Indian staples and quality imports at moderate prices, along with a knowledgeable and friendly staff that's focused on making sure you leave with what you're looking for. A nice selection of Indian and Pakistani food items, including fresh, frozen, and dried elements awaits those with a flair for authentic South Asian cooking. Seasonal fruits and veggies alongside hearty lentils, beans, flours, and of course, a great variety of rice, are always on offer at competitive prices. Herbs, spices, and teas in bulk or prepackaged allow you to procure a little or a lot of the elements necessary for perfectly balanced dishes, and custom blending is available. While you shop for your home kitchen, consider something for your other rooms, or yourself, with Rice-N-Spice's selection of trinkets, fine Indian clothing, and classical and traditional Indian music. A video rental and conversion service is also available for movie buffs.


Check out Philadelphia's best Indian groceries and find a world of flavor for your kitchen and your home.