Exploring the Spice Center: Manchester NH's Hidden Gem of International Flavors

When I first stepped into the Spice Center in Manchester, NH, I was simply in search of the perfect thin flat Syrian bread, also known as pita bread. What I discovered instead was an absolute paradise of flavors—a market brimming with authentic international goods, fresh ingredients, and the kind of specialty items you won’t find in a traditional supermarket.

A Bread Lover’s Dream

Walking in, I was greeted by an impressive selection of breads sourced from bakers across Massachusetts and Canada. Among them was one I hadn’t seen since childhood—Markouk bread. This ultra-thin, soft, and slightly chewy Lebanese-style flatbread is traditionally baked on a domed griddle and is perfect for wrapping meats, cheeses, and spreads or even crisping into crackers. Alongside it, I found Lavash, a soft, thin Armenian flatbread ideal for wraps, and if you visit on a Saturday, you’ll discover a delightful selection of homemade treats.

That day, I was lucky enough to try Algerian Msemen bread, a square, buttery, pan-fried flatbread often enjoyed with honey or savory fillings, and Brâdj, a North African semolina-based pastry infused with dates and anise—a perfect balance of sweet and aromatic.

More Than Just Bread

Beyond the bakery section, the store offers a small but impressive produce selection, stocked with fresh vegetables and herbs essential to Middle Eastern, North African, and Indian cuisine. I spotted bundles of fresh mint at checkout—of course, I grabbed one!

The dairy section is a treasure trove of cheeses and yogurts, featuring an array of options popular in Middle Eastern, North African, and Indian cuisine. Some standout cheeses you might find include:

Syrian Cheese – A semi-soft, mild yet tangy cheese, perfect for breakfast or stuffing into pastries.
Halloumi – A firm, brined cheese that holds up well to grilling.
Nabulsi – A Palestinian cheese similar to halloumi, often flavored with nigella seeds.
Akkawi – A salty, creamy cheese commonly used in Middle Eastern pastries.
Paneer – A fresh, firm Indian cheese that doesn’t melt, ideal for curries and grilling.
Jibneh Arabieh – A mild white cheese popular in the Levant region.
Kashkaval – A semi-hard cheese enjoyed across the Middle East and Mediterranean.

There are also rich, creamy Middle Eastern and Indian yogurts, including laban (a drinkable yogurt with a tangy kick) and labneh (a thick, strained yogurt often enjoyed with olive oil and herbs).

Aisles of Discovery

As I wandered through the aisles, I found shelf after shelf filled with dry and canned goods I rarely see elsewhere. The spice selection is incredible—fragrant, colorful, and diverse, offering everything from sumac and za’atar to black lime and Aleppo pepper. There’s an impressive variety of pickled vegetables, a staple in many cuisines, adding that essential tangy bite to meals.

In the fridge and freezer section, I found ready-to-cook items like kafta (seasoned ground beef or lamb skewers) and different types of beef sausages, making it easy to prepare an authentic meal at home.

The Crown Jewel: The Butcher Counter

The highlight of my visit was, without a doubt, the butcher section. Here, fresh cuts of halal lamb and beef are expertly prepared. I requested ground lamb, and right before my eyes, the butcher cut a fresh piece from a leg of lamb and ground it to order—now that’s quality service!

Sweet Endings

Near the back, I stumbled upon an array of high-quality Grade A dates—more varieties than I had ever seen in one place—along with figs and an impressive selection of traditional Middle Eastern and North African desserts. From delicate baklava to semolina-based pastries, the sweet section alone is worth the trip.

Bringing the Flavors Home

With my haul in tow, I headed home to prepare a special dinner for my daughter. The menu included:

Hummus Kawarma – Fresh hummus topped with seared spiced lamb (I kept the lamb separate for variety).
Lebanese Cucumber, Red Onion & Tomato Salad with Mint – A refreshing, herbaceous side dish.
Quinoa with Lemon & Spices – Light and flavorful, a great alternative to traditional grains.
Grilled Chicken Thighs with Shawarma Spices – Juicy, well-seasoned, and perfect with the fresh flatbreads.
Sautéed Onion and Mushroom – A simple but flavorful addition to the spread.
Fresh Toum Dressing – A creamy, garlicky sauce that elevates any dish.
Loads of Fresh Thin Syrian Bread – The perfect vessel for all these flavors.

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Worth the Visit - Spice Center Manchester NH

The Spice Center is not just a store—it’s an experience. Whether you’re looking for authentic ingredients, quality halal meats, or simply want to explore the flavors of Middle Eastern and North African cuisine, this market is a must-visit. If you’re in Manchester and in search of real, flavorful, and hard-to-find ingredients, do yourself a favor and make the trip. Your taste buds will thank you!

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Explore NH Life is produced by John Moscillo of ReMax Synergy. With over 20 years serving the New Hampshire Real Estate market you can rest assured that all your real estate needs will be exceeded. Simply email him at JohnM@NHSynergy.com call or text at 603-858-3548. Search for your Dream Home Now