The diversity of Champaign-Urbana is reflected in many ways, including the specialty grocery stores throughout the area
We are fortunate to have numerous locally owned international and specialty grocers in Champaign and Urbana, including Indian, Mexican, Korean and others
With the rich ethnic diversity in Champaign-Urbana, we are fortunate that our chain grocery stores are typically well stocked with international foods. Meijer’s international aisle is substantial and Costco stocks numerous foods that are popular in Asian cooking.
Beyond these stores we have many international and specialty grocery stores that are crafted to serve particular segments within our community.
This list will introduce Champaign-Urbana’s international grocery stores and we will do our best to keep it up-to-date. If you have a store that you think should be added to the list, or know of one that has closed, please let us know.
International Grocery Stores in Champaign-Urbana
Annapoorna, Champaign: Local Indian grocery store. It offers fresh vegetables every Thursday. An extensive selection of spices, which it refers to as the heart of Indian cooking, and many ready-to-eat and frozen meals are among the highlights.
Bombay Market, Champaign: After moving from its former location on Bradley Avenue in 2024, Bombay Market has expanded in its new location at the corner of University Avenue and Second Street. It offers everything needed for traditional Indian cooking: fresh produce, packaged masalas, Indian snacks and beverages, and frozen treats. It carries products that cater to the local African and Middle Eastern population as well. Be sure to check out the halal butcher counter as well as Mama’s Kitchen restaurant, offering Indian cuisine for lunch and dinner takeout.
El Progreso Tienda y Carniceria, Urbana: Mexican food store with fresh meats, cheeses, beans, chiles and more. Has been posting video updates on Facebook with its product availability in both Spanish and English.
Far East on Fifth Street, Champaign: An Asian grocery store with plenty of fresh produce. Japanese, Chinese, Vietnamese, Indonesian foods and more. Located at 105 S. Fifth St. in Champaign.
Fresh International Market, Champaign: It describes itself as follows: “From live seafood and fresh produce to Taiwanese bakery, Cantonese Deli, and more, we offer a wide range of grocery selection to all our customers.” A number of good finds here. Also on Instagram.
Strawberry Fields Natural Food Store, Urbana (exterior sign says World Harvest International & Gourmet Foods): The previous owner recently retired, but the new ownership has continued to operate the store; the cafe is reopening soon. It stocks natural and organic groceries, frozen and refrigerated; fresh baked bread and pastries; made-fresh-daily salads and sandwiches; gourmet coffee and teas; local and organic produce; vitamins and supplements, and products for home and body. There’s a wide selection of bulk olive oil (get your bottle right there if you don’t have your own), among many other international foods.
More Locally Owned Specialty Grocery Stores in Champaign-Urbana
How to classify local institutions such as Art Mart and Sun Singer, both located in Champaign? Are they restaurants? (Yes.) Specialty grocers? (Also yes.) Purveyors of wine? (Indeed yes.) And so much more — housewares, clothing, and even toys — that you simply need to explore what they offer for yourself.
Cheese and Crackers, Champaign: Deli sandwiches for take-out, cheese, salami and other meats, fresh fish delivered three times a week (email fish@crackerscheese.com for information), craft sodas, wine, and dry goods. Visit its website or call (615) 615-8531.
Prairie Fruits Farm: Award-winning goat cheese. Orders placed online can be picked up at farmers markets. Find out details about market access, CSAs, wholesale opportunities, and on-farm events taking shape under new ownership in recent years.
The Newest Grocery Store in Champaign-Urbana
The long-awaited Korean grocery store chain H Mart (on North Broadway in Urbana) celebrated its grand opening in January 2025. H Mart is best known for its vast selection of produce, seafood, meats, in addition to prepared foods, packaged goods and housewares — all with an Asian flavor and flair. The Urbana location includes its signature food court, featuring Jaws TPK, Korean street food; Paik’s Noodle, Korean-Chinese food; Cho Dang, Korean barbecue; and Paris Baguette, a popular bakery.
