Mediterranean Market — Local services in Lombard

My experience at Mediterranean Market was one I will never forget. As both a revert to Islam (I was raised in a strict Protestant Christian family) and Afro-Carribean American individual, one of the ways in which I have had to remain most mindful in terms of lifestyle has been diet. Growing up, almost every dish had pork or pork byproduct; and rejecting to eat the main course could be perceived as a sign of disrespect. I was never taught the meaning of "halal" food; I was never cooked a halal meal, or exposed to a single Mediterranean dish (later I learned amongst other sociocultural reasons, such a diet is typically considered most adaptable to those adhering to zabiha halal food preparation and consumption due to health-mindfulness being an important facet of the faith, to the best of my understanding and articulation).

Throughout my faith journey, I have come to realize the way I choose to practice; that which feels most natural, most authentic to me; is to live as holistically mindful as possible in every way I can, including diet. So in my personal life, making as many halal choices as possible is very important to me. When I was old enough to move out of my house and practice Islam, the first thing I realized is that I had no idea how to prepare a lot of the food I found at the one and only halal market in town. I remember crying out to God and wondering how my lifestyle would ever align with personal conviction due to my sore lack of knowledge, and resources, in this facet of spiritual growth.

So I studied the Mediterranean diet for a long time, and to this day, I do the best I can.

I say this all to say, perhaps my selection of items may seem rudimentary to the more seasoned shopper of Mediterranean food products (as shown in the attached photos). But this market made me feel beyond comfortable as an individual with limited experience in halal food preparation through providing me with the best shopping expedience I've ever had, so I must share the photos/ video footage as well.

Every meal I have prepared since the excursion has been an immense blessing to me. Since there are many dishes I do not know how to make from scratch (I'm also limited on time due to the nature of my field/ personal endeavours), the availability of pre-cooked items and the vast array of such available made me feel so incredibly comfortable as a shopper.

I have never been a member at any store for discount programs or rewards, as I do not like to give out my phone number or name unless absolutely necessary. When asked if I had a membership card by the patient, courteous attendant at checkout, I immediately inquired as to the process and signed up.

I implore my mindful readers to do the same.

The experience I had at Mediterranean Market in its entirety has been more than just a blessing.

The products available will now allow me to live life more authentically.

Thank you,...

I am writing to express my deep dissatisfaction with a recent experience I had at your meat department at Mediterranean Market. The staff working behind the counter—mostly middle-aged or younger men who appear to be of Mexican background—either do not understand English, or worse, are deliberately providing customers with substandard or incorrect products.

I clearly requested one pound of boneless veal, but I was given bone-in meat instead. When I returned to exchange it, I politely asked for boneless veal and added a request for an additional half pound. They then gave me one pound of boneless veal, but again added bone-in meat for the half-pound portion. This is completely unacceptable and shows a lack of attention to customer instructions and expectations.

Moreover, on a separate occasion, I was sold a Cornish chicken that was clearly spoiled and had a foul odor. After I returned it, the staff simply went to the back and brought out another one that looked only slightly fresher, insisting that it was “new.” This kind of conduct raises serious concerns regarding food safety standards and customer care.

I have decided that I will no longer purchase meat from Mediterranean Market. If this is how your staff treats paying customers, it is no wonder that more and more people are choosing to shop elsewhere. Where is the management in all of this? Is anyone supervising these practices or conducting basic quality control?

If such negligence continues, I will have no choice but to report these incidents to the appropriate health and consumer protection authorities. Selling spoiled or misrepresented meat products is not only unethical—it can pose a serious risk to...

Calling all adventurous grocery shoppers! Prepare to embark on a culinary journey around the world at this delightful store. Whether you crave the exotic flavors of the Middle East, the vibrant spices of India, the mouthwatering delicacies of Pakistan, or even the good ol' American classics, this place has got you covered.

Step foot inside and behold the treasure trove of international goodies that awaits. From fragrant spices to delectable snacks, every aisle holds a surprise. It's like a global bazaar, right in the heart of your neighborhood.

And fear not, cleanliness enthusiasts, for this emporium takes pride in its pristine appearance. Prepare to traverse the aisles with confidence, knowing that your culinary expedition will be accompanied by sparkling floors and neatly arranged shelves.

So, whether you're on a quest for that special ingredient to jazz up your cooking or simply seeking a taste of nostalgia from your homeland, this store is your one-stop destination. Explore the flavors, embrace the diversity, and let your taste buds dance with delight.

But be warned: once you enter this gastronomic wonderland, you may find it hard to resist the temptation of filling your cart to the brim with delectable delights. Don't say we didn't warn you!

So gather your grocery list, unleash your inner epicurean, and make your way to this delightful store. Your taste buds will thank you, and your culinary adventures will never be the same again. Happy shopping, fellow food...