There is no shortage of places to get great food in Iowa, but if you’re looking for something out of the norm, you might need to go a little off the beaten path. There’s a farmers’ market around every corner, but Iowa’s major cities also have a surprising number of global markets serving the state’s many immigrant communities. That’s the case for Hope International Market, a unique international market in Iowa that serves the African, Caribbean, and Hispanic populations of Des Moines. A trip inside this market will bring you a selection of specialty products you’ve never dreamed of – as well as some surprises you might not expect to find in your neighborhood market. So pack your shopping bags, head to Hope International Market, and prepare for a culinary trip around the world.
Hope International Market might look like your ordinary neighborhood supermarket - but it’s anything but. It’s a trip to Africa, the Caribbean, and beyond.
Hope International Market/Facebook
First-time visitors might want to make a bee-line to the beverage aisle, where they’ll find flavors of soda, juice, and nectar they may have never heard of before.
Hope International Market/Facebook
For something a little more…spicy, head to the condiments aisle. This is definitely the single biggest selection of hot sauce anywhere in Iowa!
Hope International Market/Facebook
This supermarket has an extensive bulk foods section where you can stock up on staples.
Hope International Market/Facebook
The baking section offers an impressive selection of items perfect for creating in the kitchen.
Hope International Market/Facebook
This supermarket also has an extensive produce section, including many imported tropical fruits packed with flavor.
Hope International Market/Facebook
The store always has a section for fresh and smoked fish - many of them caught right from nearby lakes and rivers.
Hope International Market/Facebook
Surprisingly, this market even has an attire section, so you just might see someone trying on their wedding or graduation suit feet away from your latest culinary find!
Hope International Market/Facebook
Have you visited Hope International Market in Des Moines? Let us know what you thought of this unique international market in Iowa in the comments section. If you’re interested in visiting for yourself, you can visit their website or Facebook page to learn about their latest specials. For another Des Moines culinary experience, consider visiting this Vietnamese marketplace.
Hope International Market/Facebook
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Address: Hope International Market, 408 Euclid Ave, Des Moines, IA 50313, USA
