Christina’s Spice & Specialty Foods

Best of Boston 2006 Gourmet Grocery

Even a well-stocked pantry won’t have everything, which is why we’re grateful for Christina’s. On weekdays, purposeful shoppers arrive in search of Ethiopian bere bere, or grains of paradise; on weekends, they’re joined by gourmets browsing for inspiration, comparing Tahitian and Malagasy vanilla, sighing over sumac, or trying to figure out just what to do with Australian wattle seed. (Hint: Its hazelnut flavor makes for a great addition to dry-rub.) The shop also has an extensive selection of exotic teas. Whatever you choose, you’ll have the ingredients for success. 1261 Cambridge St., Cambridge, 617-576-2090.