Carmel Grocery — Local services in New York

This store on 108th Street in Forest Hills, Queens is unique its a small grocery store with a deli & many Middle Eastern & European specialty foods. I have been going there for 30 years and I understand it was in business long before that. Reflecting the background of many of the people in the neighborhood It has food products from many different countries and cultures. Most (but not all- you have to check each product if you keep kosher to make sure) of the products are kosher certified. There are many food products from Israel , Russia and various other countries and cultures.

The dried fried and nuts in the front , which are sold by the pound, are the best I have ever had. My favorite are the Israeli Peanuts, which are a coated peanut. There are also all kinds of nuts, dried fruits and things like rock candy and chocolate coffee beans.They also have numerous types of coffees , jams and Jellies and things like Baklava.

Its a small store so it quickly gets crowded. However the staff, which is extremely friendly and knowledgeable about the products , is very efficient and the wait is usually not too bad. I have learned a lot about different foods just by listening to the questions and answers of the people ahead of me in line. There are several International Food Stores in the neighborhood, including several in the same stretch of 109th Street. However, I think this is...

I wish I could give Carmel 10 stars - that's how much we love and rely on this small but packed to the gills ethnic grocery. Have been shopping there for over 30 years and it never fails to produce great results - both in freshness and price. Best place for spices and herbs - by the ounce Nuts Dried Fruits Assorted Fresh Pita bread delivered almost daily Homemade bean salad (available every other week in the front deli case where the attendants stand) Fresh roasted coffee - roasted in house Middle eastern products - like rosewater, pomegranate molasses, etc Israeli products - canned, packaged and frozen Puff Pastry and frozen middle eastern hors d'oeuvres Halva Filo Pastry Triangles for 75 cents each - Spinach Pie Square - about 2.50 or less per portion - both the triangles and pastry squares (which come with a variety of filling options) make a tasty quick lunch treat. Feta Cheese - among others Babaganoush and Hummus Salmon Caviar - - although these days I prefer the Russian stores for this as they go through more faster but back in the day Carmel was the only place it was readily available the list could go on. It's a tiny store - please don't come with your shopping cart or baby stroller - there...

Carmel Grocery in Forest Hills is a small but vibrant specialty market that feels like a hidden gem. The moment you step inside, you’re surrounded by the aroma of freshly roasted coffee and the sight of shelves packed with Mediterranean and Middle Eastern staples. From olives, pickles, and dried fruits to Bulgarian cheeses, tahini, and halva, the selection is both unique and thoughtfully curated.

One of the standout features here is the coffee — many locals stop by just for a fresh bag, noting its rich flavor and aroma. The store also strikes a nice balance: alongside exotic items you can’t easily find elsewhere, you’ll also spot everyday essentials that make it a convenient neighborhood stop.

The staff adds to the charm. They’re friendly, helpful, and often remember regular customers, which gives the place a welcoming, community feel. The shop itself is cozy — some might even say crowded — but that’s part of its character, and it makes browsing feel like a treasure hunt.

For anyone in Forest Hills who enjoys exploring flavors beyond the standard supermarket, Carmel is definitely worth visiting. Whether you’re putting together a mezze spread or just want standout coffee, this...