🇺🇸 Must-Visit Spot in Boston 8/100

Christina's Spice & Specialty Foods 📍1297 Cambridge St, Cambridge, MA 02139 This unassuming spice shop has no sign! 🪑 At first, I thought it was an art exhibition 🖼️ – I skipped going in because it was late, and my brain couldn’t handle absorbing an exhibit. The second time, the window display pulled me in: minimalist wooden crates with bold black labels – clean, sharp, and intriguing. For a curious soul like me, it was irresistible! Walking inside, I was amazed by the endless rows of spices 🌶️. At a glance, they looked similar, but each was unique. Every first-time visitor does what I did: gasp 😲, then start flipping through the labels trying to make sense of it all. They even carry chili varieties from India, Chile, Spain, and beyond. And surprise – they stock Pixian (Sichuan) Doubanjiang, an intangible cultural heritage product! (I looked it up – it really does make stir-fries incredible, though a tad pricey 💸.) There’s also a tea section 🍵, mostly from Mem Tea (everyone says their quality is top-notch!), plus house-blended teas under Christina’s own brand. I spotted an article about the shop inside – couldn’t read the details, but the man in the photo was probably the owner in his younger days 👨🏼🦳. The sister shop next door, Christina’s Home Ice Cream, has been open for 42 years 🍦! So this place must be just as classic. Definitely trying their ice cream next time! P.S. It’s on the same street as yesterday’s recommendation – Gather Here – both in Inman Square! #DimSum #Boston #QuincyEats #BostonFood #BostonLife #MingSeafood #ChineseFood #FoodieBoston