North Market in Columbus, Ohio

30 May 202521 May 2025

North Market in downtown Columbus was only a twenty minute drive from my home in Dublin. Aside from finding parking, the process was pretty easy and well worth the time. With my shopping list in hand, I was excited to try a new recipe where I needed to pick up some exotic spices, saffron and sumac.

Established in 1876, North Market was celebrating its 140th anniversary this year. When the market first opened the area had not been surveyed so it was set up on an unkempt cemetery that had been abandoned on a site west of Second Union Railroad Station. The primary transportation into the market was by train and the conditions were dirty and caused traffic congestion that could last for hours. Luckily, this was not the case as I found a parking spot in the nearby lot.

The only traffic jam I found was a group of shoppers that had stopped forJeni’s Ice Cream, just inside of the door. With North Market Spices close by, I purchased the saffron and sumac then continued to follow the crowd counter-clockwise for sushi from Nida’s and soft tacos at Dos Hermanos.

The history of North Market is quite fascinating. As the city grew in size and wealth, city officials commissioned Daniel Hudson Burnham to design and build a grand shopping market. They were relying on Burnham to create a space that would rival the spectacular European markets and artistic cityscapes that he had once created for Chicago and D.C.

Burnham’s Union Station opened in 1897 with the arcade opening a couple of years later. Built in the Beaux-Arts Classicism style, the station welcomed more than 160 trains each day as thousands arrived for shopping, government, business, tourism and education.

Electric street cars replaced the trollies bringing in another 80 million to Columbus each year. The beauty of this place put Columbus on the map as “the most brilliantly illuminated city in America.” Business was booming and the surrounding markets flourished. Downtown Columbus became one of the most sought after real estate locations in Ohio.

The opulent North Market Historic District was a result of Ohio’s booming manufacturing. Farming was on the rise and the transportation of goods by the railroad added to the state’s prosperity.

By WWII, the North Market and surrounding area saw a decline as manufacturing began to weaken. Trains no longer brought visitors as cars became more accessible and by 1970, the arcades and businesses were closed and boarded up. North Market was all that remained of the several markets within the city and eventually, it would also result in decline.

A non-profit organization, North Market Development Authority, was eager to restore the market, raising over $5 million dollars to rebuild this landmark. Restaurants such as Martini’s and the Japanese Steakhouse began to open on High Street along with the addition of the Columbus Convention Center. Today, North Market includes over thirty vendors, once again bringing visitors to the downtown area.

Among the vendors that I visited while exploring North Market include:

Spices Limited North Market: Welcome to North Market Spices, your destination for the perfect flavor. Spices Ltd. was conceived over lunch at North Market. We envisioned a place with a wide variety of the highest quality spices. Spices that make cooking creative, fun and delicious. That’s why, when you need the perfect spice to enhance any dish, you’ll find it at Spices Ltd. Website: https://northmarketspices.com/

Firdous Express: Welcome to Firdous Express we are a quick-service restaurant. Offering a wide range of Mediterranean ingredients. From fresh tabula, creamy hummus with a hint of fresh garlic, crispy falafel, tender shawarma, and delicious baklava. We focus on providing our guests with great food, excellent customer service and lots of smiles.

Nida’s Sushi: Nida Perry, a native of Thailand, has brought a love of food and entertainment to North Market. Bringing the delicious cuisine of her childhood to the residents of Columbus, Nida includes the best of Thai cuisine, with accents from Japanese, Vietnamese, and Western traditions. From the crisp fresh spring rolls, to the tangy tom yum soup, to the sweet and spicy curries, our kitchen prepares each signature dish with exotic spices and herbs. Each bite bursts with flavors of fresh lemongrass, ginger, coconut milk, and Thai basil. The sushi bar offers the freshest seafood in both traditional and specialty maki rolls, sashimi, and nigiri.

Lan Viet Market: The Le family started Lan Viet Market downtown in 2010 with the desire to bring a part of our culture to our community. From steaming noodle soup (pho), crispy sandwiches (banh mi), refreshing spring rolls, to sizzling noodle and rice bowls; we serve authentic and delicious food that is inspired by the culture and the history of Vietnam. Our food is made to order from the freshest ingredients and has the perfect combination of savory, sweet, and spicy. Come try out a piece of our culture!

Bubbles: At Bubbles we offer a variety of organic cold-pressed juices, whole fruit smoothies, bubble teas, and açaí bowls. We strive to please each and every customer with our fast service and exceptional customer service. Website: https://bubblesteacompany.com/

Sarefino’s: If you want the kind of pizza described by our East Coast Customers as “the best pie in town”, visit our North Market location right next to Pastaria Seconda and try a slice. Yes – this is the best New York-style pizza in Columbus! We hand toss every pizza and serve it pie-shaped by the slice daily. Favorites include pepperoni, cheese, and a mouthwatering veggie pizza with spinach, artichokes, and roasted red peppers. You can also call and order a whole pie for pickup. https://www.pastarianorthmarket.com/sarefinos-pizzeria-italian-deli/

Pastaria Seconda: Located in the North Market, we have three restaurants and a catering service to bring you the finest in Italian foods. Pastaria was opened by founder Don Ziliak in 1993. We specialize in true scratch cooking and our daily lunch offerings have made many loyal customers. Stop in and try our chicken Parmesan, have a ginormous slice of 3 cheese lasagna, or for the more sophisticated pallet, try our artichoke and Gorgonzola cream sauce! Right next to our flagship store in the historic North Market is where you will find Pastaria Seconda which specializes in fresh raviolis, fresh cuts of pasta and homemade sauces, all prepared fresh daily. Let us tempt you with our Raviolis that you can take home and make for dinner: Lobster, Smoked Mozzarella, Black Bean, and Butternut Squash are just a few of the over 20 ravioli fillings offered daily. Website: https://www.pastarianorthmarket.com/

Stauf’s Coffee Roasters: Stauf’s Coffee Roasters, founded in 1988, is Columbus’ original cafe and roastery. We always endeavor to provide the best and freshest coffees hand-selected from over 20 countries of origin. We think you’ll believe us when we say that the proof is in the cup! Website: https://www.staufs.com/staufshomepage

Flavors of India: Established in 1991, Flavors of India is one of the oldest merchants at North Market. This family-run business will have you feeling like you are a part of the family. Serving you home-style Northern Indian cuisine made with freshly sourced ingredients each morning, Flavors of India incorporates healthy herbs and spices (turmeric, coriander, ginger, and garlic) in each dish offering truly authentic flavors of India. Offering Vegan and Gluten-Free options.

Dos Hermanos: Dos Hermanos has a true passion for sharing authentic Mexican food. While visiting the North Market you may find us hand rolling and steaming Tamales, scooping fresh Avocados for our guacamole, or slow cooking our Barbacoa for Tacos. We often use ingredients that we source from local markets and other small business owners. Website: https://eatatdos.com/

Brezel: Brezel is a gourmet pretzel company specializing in hand-rolled Bavarian-style pretzels and pretzel products in a variety of flavors. If you prefer the classic or something more unique, we’ve got you covered. With 40+ flavors, we make a flavor for every taste bud. Website: https://www.brezelpower.com/

Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream: This is where Jeni began making the ice creams that The New York Times called “worth the drive to Ohio” and Time magazine called “the best in America.” When Jeni opened in 2002, Jeni could be found making and selling all the ice creams herself behind two dipping cabinets. Today, Jeni continues to draw inspiration from the merchants, food, customers, and overall vibe of the historic city market. She’s often there for events—and to shop for ingredients to use in her home and work kitchens. Website: https://jenis.com/blogs/scoop-shops/columbus-oh

Some of the shops I will miss….

Little Eater…I loved their many healthy salads!

North Market Poultry and Game…fresh beef and chickens; It was the first time I had bison!

The Fish Guys – sushi grade tuna…need I say more?

Pistacia Vera – cute, little, delicious desserts!

Destination Donuts – the glazed and chocolate glazed were my favorite….

Katzinger’s Little Deli – will miss their amazing salads and pickle

*Information regarding each vendor has been copied from The North Market Website.

I’m sure that since my last visit, there are several new vendors, so I look forward to a future trip to Columbus where I can eat my way through North Market.

Have you visited North Market in Columbus, Ohio? What was your favorite vendor? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my day trip to North Market and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

North Market Columbus
59 Spruce Street
Columbus, OH 45215
Telephone: 614 463 9664

Where to Stay:

Moxy, Columbus Short North
808 N. High Street
Columbus, OH 45215
Telephone: 888 861 8331

Where to Eat:

North Market Eateries

Firdous Express
Nida’s Sushi and Thai
Lan Viet Market
Bubbles
Sarefino’s
Pasteria Seconda
Dos Hermanos
Brezel
Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream

What to Read:

North Market Cookbook

Photo Guide to Columbus:

Bicentennial Park
Franklin Park Conservatory
German Village
Hayden Falls Park
Inniswood Metro Gardens
Ohio Statehouse
Scioto Mile Promenade
Short North Arts District
Stroll through the stalls of North Market for amazing photos!

The Journey to North Bali

25 February 202222 September 2024

The smell of coffee brought a smile to my face the morning after New Year’s Eve. Despite staying up late to welcome in the New Year, I had a restful sleep and was excited to make the journey to northern Bali. Before checking into the hotel on Lovina Beach, there would be plenty of time to make a few stops along the way. Wayan and his family wanted to drive around Denpasar to show me the busy city life of the south before reaching the more laid-back region of Singaraja.

Our first stop was in the heart of the island’s capital. First, the family needed to present an offering to their Hindu gods and offer up a prayer. There was a temple close by so, they completed their morning custom and then we visited one of the local shopping plazas to browse for souvenirs. This was the perfect location for purchasing a sarong for visiting the temples and there were so many options and a variety of designs. The children were eagerly excited to help me select the perfect one.

From clothing to temple decorations, the Balinese market offered a wide selection of products, quite similar to our large discount chains in the United States, but much more fun and exciting. Outside the shopping plaza were food carts that lined the street where a quick, healthy meal of meatball soups, noodle dishes or wraps could be purchased.

The Balinese are known for their intrinsic woodwork and take pride in the ornate furnishings they design. From decorating their everyday living space to adorning their family’s home temple, the Balinese artisans are very skilled and in high demand.

Wayan explained that each Hindu family has a small temple in their home to carry out their daily religious ceremonies. The altars are decorated in such detail to include carvings of the gods, with their exquisite artwork and vibrant colors. The shopping centers sell these types of items for their worship space and Wayan wanted to look at the new artwork on display. After purchasing a few bowls to hold their offerings to the gods, we were ready to start our journey north.

Before exiting the city, Wayan pointed out a tower-like structure, beautifully designed with vibrant colors known as a waddhu. Standing alongside the road, it had been created in preparation for a cremation ceremony and I learned that the higher the tower, the more important the person. This ceremony is one of Bali’s oldest customs that dates back to thousands of years.

The Balinese Cremation Ceremony, also known as Ngaben, is a spiritual ritual of the Hindu that is viewed as a celebration. It is believed that if the loved one has completed their purification on earth, they will be united with God. If the purification is incomplete, they will be reborn as someone else, returning to earth and starting the process again in a new life until purification is complete.

The date of the ceremonial rite will be selected by the Hindu priest and the family will make additional arrangements such as making the Lambu (the coffin), selecting the Gamelan musicians for the procession and purchasing the offerings to the gods.

After the service and procession, the priest will ignite the waddhu from the holy fire, burning the body until it has turned to ash. The remains will be scattered into the sea and ceremonial activities will last over the next twelve days in honor of their loved one that has passed.

With a two hour drive ahead of us, we left the city late that afternoon. The traffic began to lessen and the scenery to change in the most dramatic of ways. We traded in our stoplights and highways for mountains and rice fields. It was a quiet, relaxing drive and we made several stops to take some photos and enjoy the countryside.

We had been driving for about twenty minutes when Wayan’s wife, Candra noticed the fruit market on the side of the road. The fruit hanging from the poles is the durian fruit and when I told them I had not tried it before, they were happy to stop.

As soon as we exited the car, the strong smell of kerosene was overwhelming. In addition to its scent, the fruit has a spiky exterior. The durian’s pungent odor is one of its characteristics, but if you can get past it, the flesh is said to have a nutty custard flavor. The market provides free samples, so with a little coaching, I tried it.

I was happy that there were other fruit selections available as well, so I purchased bananas, rambutan and another local favorite, the starfruit.

Our small snack of fruit was enough to tie us over until lunch, and it was time to make another stop. As we pulled into the Ulun Danu Temple, Wayan mentioned that this location is one of the most photographed temples in Bali. He knew that I wanted to see Bali’s dramatic landscapes and the view of the temple surrounded by the misty mountains was magical.

Close to the temple was a small food stand where we could order authentic Balinese food. I tried the Bakso soup made of chicken and noodles in a bone broth and had a small order of spinach chips with a peanut crust. The meal was extremely fresh and satisfying.

Across from the food stand, children and teens were hanging out with their friends on the pier. Some were holding fishing poles while other seemed to be catching up on the latest gossip at school. We sat along the deck and gazed out into the scenic view before continuing our journey towards Singaraja.

Soon after leaving the temple, the sky began to darken. Passing a small group of trees, I noticed a monkey on the side of the road. The children were just as excited to see him so we pulled over for a closer look. He reappeared in the clearing along with a couple of friends and seemed so unafraid of humans.

Pande, Wayan’s oldest son, told me about the temple near their home where several monkeys lived. Wayan and Candra mentioned that it was on our way to the celebration that we would be attending later in the week.

I thought about that monkey the rest of our drive into Lovina Beach and about the fact that he had no fear of people. Candra said that the monkeys are a protected animal on the island and that they find refuge in the many temples.

We arrived at the Aditya Beach Resort where I had made my reservations, checking in around 9. I said goodbye to the Sunarsa family, who would meet back up with me in a couple of days.

My room was perfect and I was so tired that I knew it would be another great night of sleep. As the Indonesians say, Selamat Malam! (Good night!)

Have you visited the island of Bali? Where did you stay and what did you do? I would love to hear about your adventure if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for following my visit to the island of Bali! Happy Travels!

Disclosure: Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

What to See and What to Do:

Erlangga 2 Shopping Center
Jalan Nusa Kambangan no. 162
Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia

Admission Cost: Free, open to the public
Hours: 8AM to 10PM
Amenities: Food court close to venue
Length of Time to Visit: 2 – 3 hours
Tips for Your Visit: Best kept secret for souvenirs and local items at inexpensive prices. Some of the best deals on woodwork, sarongs, souvenirs, t-shirts, Bali textiles and artwork.

Ulun Danu Bratan Temple
Jalan Raya Candi Kunung-Bedugul
Tabanan, Bali, Indonesia

Where to Stay:

Aditya Beach Resort
Jalan Raya Lovina, Lovina Beach, North Bali, Indonesia
Telephone: +62 362 41059
Email: info@adityalovinabali.com

Where to Eat:

Ulun Danu Bratan Temple – Food Stalls
Jalan Raya Candi Kunung-Bedugul
Tabanan, Bali, Indonesia

I cannot get enough of the Bakso soup. I love the spices and it tastes so fresh!!

What to Eat:

Babi Guling: Suckling pig, which is similar to BBQ pork in the US.
Bakso Soup: Indonesian soup made with meatballs, noodles, spices, vegetables and broth
Gado-Gado: A cold salad of vegetables served with a peanut sauce
Nasi Goreng: Fried noodles with lots of vegetables and a choice of meat, topped with peanuts and an egg.
Pisang Goreng: Fried Bananas, served with palm sugar, honey, flaked coconut or ice cream
Sate Ayam: Chicken on a stick usually served with a peanut sauce
Spring Rolls: Crispy pastry filled with minced meat and mixed vegetables and then fried, usually served with a chili sauce

What to Read:

Balilicious, by Becky Wicks
Eat, Pray, Love, by Elizabeth Gilbert
A House in Bali, by Colin McPhee
Love and Death in Bali, by Vicky Baum
Snowing in Bali, by Kathryn Bonella
Under the Volcano: A story of Bali, by Cameron Forbes

Photo Guide for North Bali:

Git Git Waterfall
Mount Batur
Sekumpal Waterfalls
Tamblingan Lake
Twin Lakes Viewpoint

Forest on the Way to North Bali

A Morning Stroll Through Venice, Italy

4 August 202019 September 2024

The early morning hours are the perfect time to explore a city like Venice for a number of reasons. With my camera in hand, I couldn’t wait to capture the amazing sunrise from San Marco and explore Venice before the crowds began to fill the square.

It was a perfect crisp morning in the City of Lions with hardly a cloud in the sky. The soft light of the golden hour was perfect for photographing the piazza, the campanile and the islands beyond.

Reflections and shadows rushed the square while vibrant hues of pink and orange saturated the sky. The piazza glowed with a luminous shine as the sun began to rise. With a coolness in the air and a growing flock of seagulls searching for an early morning breakfast, I was ready to return to the hotel to prepare for the beautiful day ahead.

The Hotel Centauro (Centaur Hotel) offered a European breakfast so I fueled up on a lite meal of coffee, meats and cheese. The Rialto Market was a six minute walk from the hotel, so I ventured out following the Grand Canal to the Rialto Bridge. Crossing the bridge, there were spectacular views of Venice’s main waterway with its pretty pink palazzos and private boats tied up along its banks.

Along the Grand Canal were over 170 structures dating between the 13^th and 18^th centuries. Cafes spilled out onto the widening walkways with tables and chairs for outdoor seating. The historical homes along the waterway were once owned by some of the most rich and influential merchants of Venice and have been passed down for generation. Others have been restored as art galleries and boutique hotels.

Arriving at the 600-year-old Rialto Market, vendors were setting up their stalls of meat, fruit, vegetables, spices and flowers. The Pescaria is the section of the market designated for fish, offering tuna, shrimp and anchovies. Taking pleasure in the colorful marketplace, I watched as merchants wrapped up the daily catch and bagged vegetables for their customers.

I set out to lose myself in the maze of straits, creating my own route, enjoying the smells of homemade pasta and fresh foccacia. While the Grand Canal is the central waterway of Venice, there are smaller and more intimate channels that connect the city’s backyard passageways with their own network of private homes, boutique shops and popular restaurants.

I found myself at Naranzaria, a local wine bar along the Grand Canal. With outdoor seating and extensive wine list, I lost myself in the bliss of polenta and Prosecco.

By early afternoon, I was ready to return to the hotel and had miraculously found my way back to the Manin monument honoring Daniele Manin, an Italian Unification revolutionist.

I had registered for an afternoon excursion, so the timing was perfect for picking up my ticket from the hotel and making my way back to St. Mark’s Square. I left early enough to leisurely wander through Venice to window shop, people watch and pick up a few souvenirs. The scenic views captivated me at every turn and my upcoming behind-the-scenes tour of the Torre dell’Orologio was just around the bend.

Have you visited the city of Venice? I would love to hear what mesmerized you most about the city if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading my post about Venice and I wish you a lifetime of Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Piazza San Marco
Piazza San Marco, 30100
Venezia VE, Italy

Rialto Market
Campo della Pescheria, 30125
San Polo, Venezia, VE, Italy

Where to Stay:

The Centaur Hotel
San Marco
Campo Manin 4297/a
30124, Venice (Italy)
Tel. +39 041.5225832

Where to Eat:

Naranzaria
San Polo 130, 30125 Venice
Telephone: +39 041 7241035
Website: http://www.naranzaria.it/

I ordered a glass of Prosecco and the Mozzarella “in carozza” (sandwich) deep fried in polenta crust with anchovies and cooked pork.

Ristorante Rosa Rossa
Sestiere San Marco 3709
30122, Venice (Italy)
Tel. +39 041 523 4605

I could not eat enough of their caprese salad.

What to Eat:

Aperol Spritz is made with Prosecco (bubbly) wine, Aperol and a splash of soda.
Bellini’s were invented at Harry’s Bar and is my favorite brunch drink made with Prosecco and peach puree.
Seafood, especially sea bass. Black goby is a local fish from the lagoon and another local dish is fried sardines.
Vegetables from the Rialto Market
Instead of pasta, Venice serves rice and polenta. Rice and peas (risi e bisi) is a very popular dish.
Appetizers such as Venetian meat and cheese (the salami is amazing!) or cicchetti (similar to Spain’s tapas) are small servings that are the right portions. Baccala Mantecato is a topping for cicchetti made of creamed white fish.
Polpetta are deep fried meatballs
For lunch, the locals will order Tramezzino (sandwich) which is triangular in shape.
Dishes served with Nero di Seppia (Squid Ink Sauce) are a delicacy and the squid ink is very dark, so it may come as a surprise when your dish arrives.
Fritto Misto (Fried Fish and Seafood) can also include fried vegetables.
Venetian cookies (Buranelli – from the island of Burano and Sfogliatine) can be purchased at the local bakery.

What to Read:

Donna Leon has a series of crime novels all based in Venice.
The Glassblower of Murano, by Marina Fiorato
A Venetian Affair, by Andrea di Robilant
The City of Falling Angels, by John Berendt
Dead Lagoon, by Michael Dibdin
A Thousand Days in Venice, by Marlena De Biasi

Photo Guide for Venice:

The Bridge of Sighs leads to the waterfront dungeons and is best photographed from the Ponte della Paglia.
Burano is one of the islands within the Veneto was once a community of fishermen. The colorful homes can seen from a distance as the vaparetto approaches. The colors of the island and reflections make memorable photographs.
Piazza San Marco / St. Mark’s Square is the main meeting place in Venice to explore the Doge’s Palace, the Campanile and the Clock.
Pont de l’Academie translates as the Academia Bridge and is the second most popular bridge behind the Rialto Bridge.
The Rialto Bridge at Sunrise and Sunset; Take a trip on the vaparetto along the Grand Canal for some amazing photo opportunities.
Rivi degli Schiavoni is where the gondolas are “parked” with the Church of San Giorgio Maggiore in the background.
St. Mark’s Campanile is the bell tower in the square. Visitors can purchase tickets to ride up to the top for spectacular views of the lagoon and nearby buildings.
If you can visit during the Venice Carnival celebration, you will have many opportunities for some amazing, dramatic photos of people dressed in costume.

The Springfield Farmer’s Market, From History to the Here and Now

11 August 201716 September 2024

Update! Vendor List Revised on August 13, 2018

During the summer months, the Springfield Farmer’s Market sets up shop downtown outside the Heritage Center. With vendors lining the side pedestrian area, the market brings visitors here each Saturday from 9 AM to 12:30 PM.

I had the opportunity to visit the Market on its opening day and was excited to see the diversity in products that were available. From baked goods to produce, local services and artwork, this venue is the perfect location for learning about some of the small businesses that are helping to revive the economy of Springfield. The Painted Pepper, a well known food truck from town, was on hand for visitors to purchase breakfast items.

Here is just a small list of wonderful vendors that I met during my visit:

Slice of Heaven Bakery

En.Jamb.Ment

Davidson Family Growers

Sobaby Jam Company

Stevens Bakery and Orchard

Robin’s Nest Granola

Champion City Jam

Additional services and products were provided by:

OSU Food Training
Baker’s Vegetable Market and Greenhouse
MAD Sweet Heat
Wags N Wiggles
The Lady Mugs
Classy Trash
Little Hoot’s Boutique
Birth Photography
On the Rise
Covered Wagon Farm Market
Meyer’s Premier Berries
Mawmaw’s Gardens
Reaver Farms
Blue Jacket Dairy
The Hippie and the Farmer
Annabelle’s Blooms
Friends Cupcakery
Mama Nola’s Pies
Unbelievable Bakery
Jenny’s Sweet Shop
PURE by Mimi
Hope Essentials
Joyce Gerhardt
Ladybugs
VOICE Birth Options
One Hundred Feathers
Alisa Domer
Russell Shatto
Connie Chappell
Wanda Harris

One of the great advantages of shopping at The Springfield Farmer’s Market, is that they make it easier for those on federal food assistance programs to use their benefits at the market by using tokens and with the use of EBT.

Unbeknownst to many local Springfielders, the downtown Springfield Farmer’s Market was first established in the late 1800s. After the completion of the new city building by Oliver S. Kelly (today’s Heritage Building), the first floor was designated as the location for the new city market, which replaced the old market house.

The opening of the City Building and Market included “parades, opening exercises and the illumination of natural gas standpipes and arches”. The event was covered nationally as over 40,000 people joined in the festivities. It was a grand night for the city of Springfield.

Over the years, the market assigned stalls to vendors where they would bring their produce, meats and items for sale. It was described as having an “accumulated fragrance of the…annual crops of pork and cabbage – not always the freshest – ascended to the upper floor – and where the fumes of tobacco and possibly stronger stimulants, penetrated from the time-honored Springfield forum to the vicinity of the market stalls…”

I can imagine that the Springfield Farmer’s Market would have been similar to a small version of the North Market in Columbus, Ohio. Measuring only 50 x 500 feet, each vendor was provided with a permit authorizing him to sell his merchandise. A copy of this permit can be seen at the Clark County Historical Society located in the Heritage Center.

Establishing the rebirth of Springfield’s Farmer’s Market has added a level of depth to the revitalization of this once prosperous town. The downtown continues to add a number of new businesses and restaurants and the Farmer’s Market has only added to the growing attraction to my hometown of Springfield.

Have you had the opportunity to visit the Springfield Farmer’s Market? What items did you purchase? I would love to hear from you if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below!

Disclosure: Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

What to See and What to Do:

Springfield Farmer’s Market (Heritage Center)
117 South Fountain Avenue
Springfield, OH 45502
Telephone: 937 207 1950

Where to Stay:

Courtyard by Marriott Springfield Downtown
100 South Fountain Avenue
Springfield, OH 45502
Telephone: 937 322 3600

Where to Eat:

The Painted Pepper Food Truck
Telephone: 937 969 0877

I ordered the breakfast burrito with extra jalapenos and it was amazing!

More favorite Springfield eateries:

Schuler’s Donuts: Their chocolate cream-filled doughnut is their best seller…”home of homemade”. The bakery has several locations in Springfield.
Simon Kenton Inn: This historical home is an inn, restaurant and entertainment venue. With great food, I love the atmosphere of the Simon Kenton Inn.
Guerra’s Krazy Tacos: One of my favorite places to eat in Springfield, Guerra’s is known for their unique gourmet tacos.
Salato Deli: I love stopping by this deli for their charcuterie board
Le Torte Dolci Bakery; Located next to the Salato Deli, this European French bakery also serves amazing gelato.
Mike & Rosie’s Deli: This staple of Springfield is located near the Wittenberg campus and I am extremely fond of their Reuben sandwich.

Where to Drink:

Mother Stewart’s Brewing Company: Springfield’s only brewery, Mother Stewart’s showcases nine craft beers produced onsite.

What to Read:

The Book of Springfield, Ohio, 1906, by Springfield Commercial Club
Springfield, Ohio: A Summary of Two Centuries, by Tom Dunham
Ridgewood in the Country Club District, by Tamara K. Dallenbach
Still Standing: A life of pain, adversity and perseverance, by James Cooper
Hometown Killer, by Carol Rothgeb

Photo Guide for Springfield, Ohio:

Hartman Rock Garden
Westcott House, Frank Lloyd Wright House
Glen Helen Nature Preserve in nearby Yellow Springs
Heritage Center of Clark County
Tecumseh Land Trust in nearby Yellow Springs (seasonal sunflowers)
Ohio Caverns in nearby Bellefontaine
Oakes Quarry Park in nearby Fairborn, Ohio

Jungle Jim’s International Market, Fairfield, Ohio

10 November 201616 September 2024

To describe Jungle Jim’s as an “International Food Lovers’ Paradise!” is more than accurate and may quite well be understated.

The parking lot was packed as I arrived at the supermarket’s flagship location in Fairfield, Ohio. Not quite sure what to expect, I was happy to have picked up a map because this place is ginormous. With my shopping cart, I began my trek through over 150,000 worldwide product and was happy to try some samples as well. I could have easily spent hours browsing the aisles, sorting through all of the fabulous merchandise and produce.

Greeted by a talking corn stalk, I would soon learn that the entertaining displays are as much a part of the experience of Jungle Jim’s as exploring the superstore and its endless grocery items.

Bearing towards the right, I passed the pharmacy and American grocery aisles. I soon arrived at the delicatessen where I found several stands displaying a wide variety of snacks. Attendants were distributing samples of organic crackers topped with brie cheese and fig jam. I found myself adding these items to my cart for my next get-together with friends.

I selected a few dairy products from Greece and Italy to create a charcuterie board to enjoy later that afternoon. I also selected a variety of cheeses from England, Ireland and Australia.

What’s a charcuterie board without wine? The wine and beer “wing” of the market is stocked with spirits from all over the world that at first glance, I was a bit overwhelmed. The wine representatives at Jungle Jim’s are more than helpful to help visitors find the best wines in their price range based on the wine that interest them.

Nearby was a liquor store, a humidor and a tasting bar. There is not much that Jungle Jim’s does not offer and who wouldn’t mind a glass of wine while shopping for groceries?

This is not just the average grocery store wine selection. There are aisles and aisles of wines from Argentina to South Africa, clearly marked by country.

One of my favorite areas of wine to explore is the local vintages where I stocked up on a few bottles from my favorite Ohio wineries.

The beer selection is just as impressive. I had a great time shopping for a few international beers to enjoy throughout the week. Each aisle is clearly marked by country and local beers making it easy for me to find the brands I wanted to sample.

Jungle Jim’s also has a tasting room where visitors can sample a pre-selected list of wines and beers for a minimal charge. I ordered a couple of samples and then a glass of wine, that I could drink as I continued shopping.

I passed the beer cave and restrooms heading away from the beer and wine until I arrived at the bakery. With so many selections, I decided to pick up some cannolis and macaroons.

The desserts seemed to continue on into eternity. In addition to Jungle Jim-made sweets, there are local selections from some of the best bakeries in Cincinnati.

The meat counter offers fresh cuts of meat or packaged items that include some exotic cuts of beef. One of my favorite areas of the market is the International produce where fruits and vegetables are imported from all over the world.

Where else can you find Durian fruit in the state of Ohio?

To the left of the International Produce section which includes such items as bok choy, chili peppers, yucca, etc., there are several rows of freezers and shelving units that display Asian foods and spices.

From Japanese to Balinese, Chinese to Taiwanese, there is no shortage of cooking items for making some of the best Asian dishes.

I couldn’t wait to explore the seafood area. Jungle Jim’s is one of the rare markets that carries sushi-grade tuna. I was also able to find lobster, oysters as well as a selection of local fish.

Once I had taken in the smells of the seafood and said goodbye to the lobster, I arrived at a large fire truck showcasing a never ending supply of hot sauce.

Germany is to my right and further down the aisle is a great selection of cookware and gadgets. From here, I could see Sherwood Forest representing the foods of Great Britain. I picked up some Twinings Tea and proceeded past the Hispanic section towards the aisles of Italy.

In the market for a couple of great pasta sauces, the Jungle Jim’s representative suggested a local option, so I grabbed one off of the shelf and began making my way towards the check out line.

Within minutes I was home and ready to open one of my bottles of wine after a long day of shopping. I had such an amazing experience at Jungle Jim’s and couldn’t wait to make a few new dishes from the ingredients I had just purchased. Removing a pad and pen from the kitchen drawer, I began a new list of items to purchase for another visit I planned for the next weekend.

Jungle Jim’s International Market first opened its doors as a permanent fruit and vegetable market in 1975. From its humble beginnings in a 4,200 square foot complex to a 6-acre megastore, Jungle Jim’s also provides a variety of additional services to its customers including banking, pharmacy, post office, jewelers, hair dressers and restaurants to name a few.

Have you visited Jungle Jim’s or experienced an international Superstore? I would love to hear about your experience so leave your comments below! Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Jungle Jim’s International Market
5440 Dixie Highway
Fairfield OH, 45014
Telephone: 513 674 6000

Jungle Jim’s International Market – Eastgate location
4450 Eastgate South Drive
Cincinnati, OH 45245
Telephone: 513 674 6000

Hours: Daily from 8AM to 8PM; Holiday Hours – Easter: 8AM to 8PM, Thanksgiving: 8AM to 5PM, Christmas Eve: 8AM to 6PM, Christmas Day: Closed, New Year’s Eve: 8AM to 8PM, New Year’s Day: 8AM to 8PM
Amenities: worldwide merchandise, guided tours, cooking classes, events, wine tastings
Length of Visit: Minimum 1 hour
Tips for Your Visit: Pick up a map of the venue; plan on at least a couple of hours if you want to explore the whole store. check out the website for upcoming events and cooking classes, arrive on Saturdays and Sundays for samples, and visit Monday through Friday to avoid the large crowds.

Where to Stay:

Holiday Inn Express Fairfield
6755 Fairfield Business, Joyce Park Drive
Fairfield, OH 45014
Telephone: 513 860 2900

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Cincinnati Eastgate
4521 Eastgate Blvd.,
Cincinnati, OH 45245
Telephone: 513 947 9402

Where to Eat:

Acapulco
5953 Boymel Drive
Fairfield, OH 45015
Telephone: 513 874 5777

I ordered the Hot & Spicy Burrito filled with refried beans, ground beef, shredded chicken and rice, topped with supreme sauce and sour cream.

BanThai

792 Eastgate S Drive
Cincinnati, OH 45245
Telephone: 513 752 3200

The Bento Boxes for lunch are the best deal priced at only $10.95 served with salad, spring roll, crab rangoon, fruit, and lo mein noodles or rice. So far, I have tried Box Number 3 (spicy tuna roll and 3 pieces of a California roll), Box Number 4 (Shrimp Tempura roll and 3 pieces of a California Roll), and Box Number 15 (Grilled 4 chicken satay). They are made fresh and extremely filling.

More of My Favorite Places to Eat:

Skyline Chili: My go-to meal at Skyline is the 4-way chili with onion served with oyster crackers and hot sauce. I always pick up two York peppermint patties after cashing out. Cincinnati chili is a beef based sauce served over spaghetti noodles and cheese. Additional toppings include onions and beans.
LaRosa’s Pizza: A local chain pizzeria, this Sicilian style pie is made with a sweet crust and sauce. My favorite menu item is the Caprese pesto Flatbread Pizza.
Graeter’s Ice Cream: It’s the French Pot process that makes Graeter’s Ice Cream so decadent and rich. Towards the end of the process, they pour chocolate into the mix creating large chunks of yummy goodness.
Montgomery Inn BBQ: Visiting the original Montgomery Inn BBQ at the boathouse is a culinary and scenic experience. Their ribs are served with a sweet and tangy sauce that has since made them the “Ribs King” and a favorite among locals. Load up on their amazing BBQ flavored Saratoga chips,
Glier’s Goetta: While it looks like a slab of corn beef hash, this breakfast staple is made of sausage and oats, cooked until crispy. Most breakfast restaurants carry it as a side, especially the local cafes and diners.
BonBonerie: One of the most decadent pastry shops in Cincinnati, their rich confections are absolutely amazing.

Books to Read:

Eligible: A Modern Retelling of Pride & Prejudice, by Curtis Sittenfeld
Running, by J.T. Cooper
Dead Witch Walking, by Kim Harrison
Beloved, by Toni Morrison
Double Dutch, by Sharon M. Draper
Romiette and Julio, by Sharon M. Draper

Photo Guide for Cincinnati (as provided by Chris Thompson on FourSquare):

The John A Roebling Suspension Bridge
- Pick a spot near the Covington pier and shoot north toward the Cincinnati skyline. Shoot at sunset and underexpose by a few stops to get the lights just right.
- The new lights on the bridge create excellent stars when you photograph them using a narrow aperture (~f/16 and above) on your camera. That means you’ll need a longer exposure (and thus a tripod).
General James Taylor Park
- Shoot from the top of the flag pole mound to get more building reflections in your shot. Shoot at sunset or sunrise for great lighting.
Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal
- Arrive first thing in the morning when the sun is coming up
The Fountain at Fountain Square
- For great photos of the fountain: set your camera on a tripod and use a long exposure (2-5 seconds) to capture the running water. Get Carew or the colored lights above Rock Bottom in the background.
Fountain Square (look for reflections in puddles)
Celestial Restaurant in Mount Adams – The restaurant is now closed, but you may still be able to use the parking lot.
Carew Tower Observation Deck
- Provides some neat photos of the highways snaking around the city. Set your camera on a tripod and use a long exposure to get moving car trails. It’s only open at sunset a few days each year.
Engine Company 46, 2733 Erie Avenue (at Michigan), Cincinnati
- One of the most beautiful historic firehouses in all of Cincinnati. The firefighters here are used to having their photo taken while they work. Ask nicely and you can get some cool shots.
Cincinnati Observatory Center
Krohn Conservatory
Great American Ball Park
- Shoot the front of the stadium around sunset to get a nice color blue in the sky. Get one of the player statues in your shot for extra effect.
Devou Park
- The overlook next to the Drees pavilion affords a great view of the Cincinnati skyline. Shoot at sunrise or sunset for the best lighting. Underexpose slightly to get the city lights just right.
Newport Central Catholic for fireworks
- Shoot the Riverfest fireworks from this location. Bring a long lens and a tripod. You’ll want a long-ish exposure (5-10 seconds) to capture the bursts, but make sure the skyline isn’t overexposed.
Riverfront Park
- The colorful fountains make a great subject, but you need to use a relatively fast shutter speed (>1/20 or so) to catch the lights before they change color, leaving your pic with plain white lights.
American Sign Museum
- Be sure to bring a tripod to capture all the signs. Manual white balance is the way to go, because there are so many crazy colors of lights that your camera won’t know how to react.

More photos

The Cigar Room

International Cheese

My Favorite Cheese! Feta!

Naomi’s Heart Mission: To Market, To Market

8 September 201531 August 2024

It was early morning when Kristi from Naomi’s Heart Mission suggested we visit the Filipino market downtown. We were so excited to venture out to explore General Santos City and to experience everyday life in this beautiful part of the world.

We prepared ourselves for the adventure by bringing our pesos and a roll of toilet tissue, as public restrooms are not typically stocked with toiletry items. Boarding the “Mystery Machine”, we had plenty of room to stretch out and open-air windows to take in the sights. We could see the mountains in the distance as we traveled through the countryside and passed by tuk-tuks and motorbikes downtown.

Entering the grocery store, we strolled through the produce section. With so many unusual fruits, we decided to purchase a few so that we could try each one back at the mission. What was also interesting was that they displayed a cooler of unpackaged hotdogs that shoppers could select one at at time. Kristie picked up a few items that they would prepare for us later that evening.

I purchased sunscreen, a couple of make up items and a cake so we could celebrate. My favorite item was the pineapple Tang, a perfect drink for breakfast not available in the United States.

We ate lunch at a local restaurant with Kristi helping us select items that would be most familiar to us. The food freshly prepared with a variety of spices which was a very enjoyable meal before returning back to the mission. With our groceries in tow, it was best that we leave sooner than later to refrigerate the meals that we purchased and were ready for another scenic drive through General Santos City.

Have you been on a mission trip to another country? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my visit to Naomi’s Heart Mission in General Santos City, Philippines and wishing you many Happy Travels!

Naomi’s Heart Mission is an organization that feeds the local families of General Santos City, Philippines. For only $25 per month, Naomi’s Heart Mission can feed one family for the month. For nearly 20 years, NHM has been supporting the Filipinos by feeding them and educating their children. If you are interested in learning more about their programs or provide support, please visit their website at www.naomisheartmission.org.