HolyLand International Grocery: Middle Eastern and Mediterranean Staples in Columbia

What HolyLand International Grocery stocks and where to find it

HolyLand International Grocery is a Middle Eastern and Mediterranean market in Columbia that carries fresh produce, spices, grains, frozen meats, and prepared foods you won't find in standard supermarkets. The store focuses on ingredients and products from the Levant region—Syria, Lebanon, Palestine, and Jordan—along with items common across the broader Middle East and Mediterranean.

The shop is located on Devine Street in the Five Points neighborhood, a central Columbia location with street parking. Hours vary seasonally, so calling ahead before your first visit is worth the time. The store is independently owned and operated, not part of a chain, which means inventory can shift based on what arrives from suppliers and what the owner sources locally.

Key Takeaways

• HolyLand carries fresh herbs, spices, and grains specific to Middle Eastern cooking that mainstream groceries do not stock regularly.
• The frozen meat section includes lamb, goat, and halal-certified options sourced to meet dietary and religious requirements.
• Prepared foods and ready-to-eat items rotate based on what the owner makes fresh, so visiting multiple times shows you the full range.
• The Five Points location is walkable and close to other neighborhood shops, restaurants, and services.

Spices, herbs, and dry goods you need for Middle Eastern cooking

The spice section is where HolyLand distinguishes itself from chain groceries. You can find sumac, za'atar, baharat, and individual spices like ground coriander and cumin in quantities and freshness that matter for the flavor profile of dishes like fattoush, tabbouleh, and kibbeh. The store also stocks dried herbs—mint, oregano, thyme—in the form and dryness level that Middle Eastern recipes call for, not the faded versions that sit on supermarket shelves for months.

Grains and legumes fill dedicated sections: lentils in multiple colors, chickpeas, fava beans, bulgur wheat, and rice varieties including short-grain and long-grain options. Flour comes in types suited to flatbread and pastry making—semolina, whole wheat, and all-purpose blends. Nuts appear in bulk or packaged form: pistachios, pine nuts, almonds, and walnuts, many of them roasted and salted in the way they're used in the region.

Fresh produce and imported pantry items

The produce section changes with the season and supplier availability. You may find fresh parsley, cilantro, and mint in bunches larger than typical grocery store portions, along with eggplant, okra, tomatoes, and cucumbers. Availability of items like fresh figs, pomegranates, or bitter melon depends on what's in season and what the owner can source.

The pantry section holds imported oils—olive oil from the Mediterranean, sesame oil—canned tomatoes, tahini, pomegranate molasses, and jarred items like olives, pickled vegetables, and preserved lemons. Bread and flatbread products may be fresh or frozen, depending on the day. Dairy items like labneh and feta cheese appear in the cooler section, though selection varies.

Frozen meats and halal options

HolyLand stocks lamb and goat in cuts suited to Middle Eastern cooking: ground lamb for kibbeh and kofta, lamb shanks for stews, and whole or partial animals for larger preparations. Chicken and beef are also available. Many products carry halal certification, which matters for customers whose dietary or religious practice requires it. The owner can often explain the cuts and suggest preparation methods if you ask.

Because this is a smaller independent market, not every cut is always in stock. If you're looking for something specific—lamb ribs, goat shoulder, or a particular size—calling ahead gives the owner time to set it aside or order it for your next visit.

Prepared foods and rotating inventory

HolyLand sometimes offers prepared foods—items like hummus, baba ganoush, or cooked rice dishes—though what's available depends on the owner's schedule and what was made that day. These are not always present, so don't count on finding them every visit. When they are available, they reflect home cooking rather than mass production, which changes both flavor and shelf life compared to packaged versions.

Because this is an independent shop, inventory is not consistent day to day. A spice you found last week might be temporarily out of stock. A produce item in season one week may not appear the next if the supplier's shipment was delayed. This unpredictability is part of shopping at a neighborhood market rather than a chain—it also means you discover new items and build a relationship with the owner, who can tell you when things are coming in.

Pricing and payment options

Prices are generally competitive with other specialty grocers and often lower than buying imported items through online retailers when you factor in shipping. The store accepts cash and card payments for most purchases.

Because it's independently owned, payment methods may be limited compared to large chains—calling ahead if you have questions about payment options is reasonable. The owner can also discuss bulk pricing or special orders if you're planning a larger purchase or event.

When to visit and what to bring

Visiting during mid-week afternoons tends to be less crowded than weekends, which gives you time to browse and ask questions. Bring a list of what you're looking for, especially if you're searching for something specific. The owner is usually present and can direct you to items or let you know if something is not currently in stock but can be ordered.

Street parking on Devine Street fills up during peak neighborhood hours, but turnover is usually quick. The Five Points area has other shops and restaurants nearby, so you can combine a grocery run with other errands or a meal in the neighborhood.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does HolyLand have halal meat?

Yes. Many of the frozen meats, particularly lamb and chicken, carry halal certification. The owner can tell you which products meet halal standards and can often order specific cuts if you need them for a particular occasion or dietary requirement.

Can I find fresh herbs like mint and parsley year-round?

Availability depends on the season and what the owner can source. Fresh herbs appear regularly during warmer months. In winter, dried herbs are more reliable. Calling ahead if you need a large quantity or a specific herb for an event is a good idea.

What if I can't find something I'm looking for?

Ask the owner. Many items can be ordered for your next visit, especially if you give a few days' notice. The owner sources from multiple suppliers and can often track down specialty items that aren't currently on the shelf.

Is there parking nearby?

Street parking is available on Devine Street and nearby residential streets. The Five Points neighborhood has moderate foot traffic, so parking availability changes throughout the day. Arriving during off-peak hours usually means easier parking.

Can I call ahead to check if something is in stock?

Yes. Calling before you visit is especially useful if you're looking for a specific item, need a large quantity, or want to know about prepared foods available that day. The owner can tell you what's currently in stock and set items aside if needed.