It doesn’t matter what language you speak, a nice, cold beer is the perfect remedy for a muggy, looks-like-it’s-going-to-rain-for-the-thousandth-time kind of day. Instead of cursing Mother Nature, swing by Eagle Provisions in Brooklyn’s South Slope and pick up one of the 1,500 brews in stock. Then sit back, prop your feet up, pop open that can/bottle/keg and let the cool, bubbly liquid take you away to a happier climate.

Known to many as “The Old White Eagle Market,” this grocery and delicatessen offers an impressive stash of imported European goods, fresh baked breads and kielbasa, but in the summertime I just can’t get past the beer. Everyone–from die-hard beer connoisseurs to those drawn to bottles with cute labels–can find what they’re looking for here. And don’t be mislead by the small offering of beer up by the front registers–there’s a whole beer room to your right! The selection can be a bit daunting, but friendly owner John Zawisny will eagerly help you navigate the stock and point out his current favorites. John and his brother Richard have been at the business for 30 years and watched the clientele (and their requests) change dramatically. more…

The old adage says you shouldn’t go shopping hungry, but I dare you to spend more than 5 minutes in this Jackson Heights megamarket and not feel a little rumbling in your tummy.  It’s impossible not to dream up fantastic Indian feasts, or if you’re like me, plan what savory snack you’re going to buy for the long subway ride home.

I’m a lover of condiments, so I always head for the back right corner of the store to get a little inspiration.  There’s coriander chutney, sweet lime chutney, tamarind paste, gor keri (a relish of mango cubes, mustard seeds, fenugreek, red chili and spices), chhundo (a sweet & tangy shredded mango chutney with a touch of cumin and date palm sugar), tahini and sriracha (sun-ripened chilies ground into a paste with garlic, sugar, salt and vinegar). more…