What Are the Best-Rated Items Available at Lafrique Market?
When it comes to authentic African and Caribbean groceries in Chicago, Lafrique Market has established itself as the go-to destination for quality ingredients that bring the flavors of the Motherland to your kitchen. Located in the South Loop at 2001 S. State Street, this upscale African grocery store offers an impressive selection of products that have earned rave reviews from customers both in-store and online.
Whether you're a seasoned cook looking for hard-to-find ingredients or someone eager to explore African and Caribbean cuisine, Lafrique Market delivers authenticity, quality, and variety. Let's dive into the best-rated items that keep customers coming back for more.
Fresh Produce: Ghana Puna Yam
Why It's a Customer Favorite
Ghana Puna Yam stands out as one of Lafrique Market's most sought-after products. This authentic West African staple is prized for its creamy texture, naturally sweet flavor, and versatility in cooking. Unlike the yams commonly found in American supermarkets, Ghana Puna Yam offers the genuine taste and texture that African diaspora communities crave.
Pricing and Availability
- Individual Yams: Starting from $9.99
- Box of Ghana Puna Yam (50lb): $250.00
The availability of both individual pieces and bulk boxes makes it accessible whether you're cooking for a family meal or preparing for a large gathering or event.
Why Customers Love It
Customers appreciate the quality and freshness of these yams, which can be prepared in numerous traditional ways including boiled yam (ampesie), fried yam, pounded yam (fufu), or yam porridge (mpoto mpoto). The authentic taste transports home cooks back to their roots and introduces newcomers to genuine African cuisine.
Beverages: Malta Guinness
The Energy Drink That Delivers
Malta Guinness has earned its reputation as one of the most popular non-alcoholic malt beverages at Lafrique Market. This Nigerian favorite is known for its rich, distinctive taste and energy-boosting properties.
Product Details
- Malta Guinness Can (24-pack): $45.00
- Individual bottles: Also available
Malta Guinness is brewed with premium ingredients including sucrose, maize, sorghum, barley malt extract, caramel, hops, water, and fortified with essential vitamins and minerals. It's more than just a refreshing drink—it's a source of vitality and energy.
Customer Appeal
The beverage's sweet, malty flavor combined with its nutritional benefits makes it a favorite among adults and children alike. Many customers stock up on the 24-can cases for parties, gatherings, or simply to have on hand for daily enjoyment.
Beverages: Lucozade Original Energy Drink
British-African Classic
Lucozade Original Energy Drink (1 liter) is another top-rated beverage that flies off the shelves at Lafrique Market. Priced at $9.99, this glucose-powered energy drink has been a staple in African and Caribbean households for generations.
What Makes It Special
- Zero fat content
- Powered by glucose for quick energy
- Distinctive orange flavor that's instantly recognizable
- Perfect for rehydration and energy boost
Customers who grew up with Lucozade in their home countries appreciate finding this familiar taste, while new customers discover why it's been beloved for decades.
Beverages: Ribena Blackcurrant
A Touch of Nostalgia
Ribena Blackcurrant (850ml) at $10.99 represents more than just a juice concentrate—it's a taste of childhood for many African and British customers. This vitamin C-rich blackcurrant drink is perfect for the whole family.
Usage and Popularity
Ribena can be enjoyed diluted with water (hot or cold) or used in various recipes and cocktails. Its versatility and health benefits make it a pantry essential for families looking to provide nutritious beverages for their children.
Dairy: Nestle Nido Powder Milk
The Trusted Milk Brand
Nestle Nido Powder Milk is one of Lafrique Market's consistently best-selling dairy products, available in multiple sizes to suit different household needs.
Size Options and Pricing
- 400g: Starting from $12.99
- 900g: Mid-range option
- 2500g: Family-size package
Why It's a Staple
Nido's popularity stems from its rich, creamy taste, long shelf life, and versatility. It's used in everything from morning tea and coffee to cooking traditional dishes, making desserts, and as a nutritional supplement. Many customers prefer it over fresh milk for its convenience and authentic taste that reminds them of home.
Grains & Staples: Oloye Peeled Beans
Premium Quality Beans
Oloye Peeled Beans have earned excellent ratings for their quality and convenience. Available in sizes ranging from 2lbs to 10lbs, with prices starting at $11.99, these beans are a cornerstone ingredient in West African cooking.
Culinary Uses
Peeled beans (also known as black-eyed peas without the skin) are essential for making:
- Moi moi (bean pudding)
- Akara (bean fritters)
- Bean soups and stews
The fact that they're pre-peeled saves hours of preparation time, making them invaluable for busy cooks who don't want to compromise on authenticity.
Staples: Basmati Rice 20lbs
Quality Rice for Every Occasion
Basmati Rice in the convenient 20lb package is priced at $30.49, offering exceptional value for families and regular home cooks. This long-grain aromatic rice is perfect for preparing Jollof rice, fried rice, rice and stew, or any rice-based dish.
Customer Value
At approximately $1.52 per pound, this bulk option provides significant savings while ensuring you never run out of this essential staple. The quality remains consistent, with properly aged grains that cook up fluffy and separate every time.
Spices & Seasonings: Jerk Villa Spicy Jerk Seasoning
Caribbean Flavor in a Bottle
The Jerk Villa Spicy Jerk Seasoning (8oz) at $11.99 brings authentic Jamaican flavors to your kitchen. This highly-rated seasoning blend has become a favorite among customers who love Caribbean cuisine.
Versatility and Taste
This all-purpose seasoning works beautifully with:
- Chicken and pork
- Fish and seafood
- Vegetables for grilling
- Marinades and rubs
The complex blend of spices including scotch bonnet peppers, allspice, thyme, and aromatic herbs creates that unmistakable jerk flavor without requiring you to source multiple ingredients.
Spices & Seasonings: Royco Mchuzi Mix
East African Favorite
Royco Mchuzi Mix Chicken Flavor (500g) at $9.99 is beloved by East African communities, particularly those from Kenya and Tanzania. This seasoning mix simplifies the process of creating rich, flavorful stews and sauces.
Why Customers Choose It
The convenience of an all-in-one seasoning that delivers authentic taste makes Royco a kitchen staple. It's particularly popular for quick weeknight dinners when you want traditional flavors without lengthy preparation.
Spices & Seasonings: JCS Oxtail & Stew Seasoning
Perfect for Hearty Dishes
JCS Oxtail & Stew Seasoning (16oz) at $7.99 offers exceptional value for a product that transforms ordinary stews into extraordinary meals. This Caribbean-inspired blend is formulated specifically for slow-cooked dishes.
Customer Feedback
Home cooks appreciate how this seasoning enhances the natural flavors of meat without overpowering it. It's particularly praised for use with oxtail, beef stews, and goat meat dishes.
Palm Oils: Asiko Zomi Palm Oil
Authentic Red Palm Oil
Asiko Zomi Palm Oil (500ml) at $5.99 represents excellent value for this essential cooking ingredient. Red palm oil is fundamental to countless West African dishes, providing both flavor and that distinctive rich color.
Quality and Authenticity
Asiko brand is known for producing unrefined palm oil that preserves nutrients, antioxidants, fatty acids, and vitamins. Customers trust this brand for:
- Making authentic soups and stews
- Preparing traditional dishes like red red
- Creating oil-based sauces
The affordable price point makes it accessible for regular use without compromising on quality.
Palm Oils: Ola Ola Carotino Cooking Oil
Versatile Cooking Solution
Ola Ola Carotino Cooking Oil comes in two sizes, catering to different household needs:
- 550ml: $11.99 - perfect for smaller households
- 5.5 liters: $55.99 - ideal for families and frequent cooking
Health-Conscious Choice
Carotino is prized for being a healthier alternative to regular cooking oils, rich in carotenoids and vitamin E. Its neutral flavor makes it suitable for both African dishes and everyday cooking.
Meat & Seafood: Asiko Stockfish
Premium Dried Fish Products
Asiko Stockfish products are among the top-rated seafood items at Lafrique Market:
- Stockfish Chunks (8oz): $15.99
- Stockfish Steaks (8oz): $12.99
Culinary Importance
Stockfish (dried cod) is indispensable in many African soups and stews, adding depth of flavor and protein. The Asiko brand is particularly praised for:
- Consistent quality
- Proper drying and preservation
- Authentic taste
- Good size pieces that rehydrate well
Meat & Seafood: Exeter Corned Beef
Trusted Canned Meat
Exeter Corned Beef (12oz) at $7.99 is a pantry staple that has stood the test of time. This West African favorite is known for its quality and taste.
Why It's Popular
Unlike some mass-market corned beef, Exeter maintains a reputation for:
- Higher meat content
- Better texture
- More authentic taste
- Versatility in cooking
It's used in everything from quick breakfast scrambles to elaborate stews and pasta dishes.
Breakfast Items: Golden Morn
Nutritious Start to the Day
Golden Morn cereal, available in multiple sizes starting from $8.99, is a beloved breakfast option, particularly popular among Nigerian families. This fortified corn-based cereal provides essential nutrients and energy.
Family-Friendly Appeal
Parents appreciate Golden Morn for:
- High nutritional value
- Familiar taste their children love
- Quick preparation
- Affordable pricing
It can be prepared with hot or cold milk and is often enhanced with sugar, honey, or fruit.
Breakfast Items: Lady B Custard
Versatile Breakfast and Dessert
Lady B Custard comes in various sizes (500g to 2kg) with prices starting at $6.25, making it one of the most economical options in the breakfast category.
Multiple Uses
This custard powder is incredibly versatile:
- Traditional breakfast porridge when mixed with milk
- Dessert base for puddings and pies
- Thickening agent for certain dishes
- Filling for pastries
The range of sizes ensures there's an option for every household need and budget.
Snacks: Nkatie Burger
African Peanut Delight
Nkatie Burger (Pack of 12) at $19.99 represents the fusion of traditional African flavors with modern snacking convenience. These peanut-based snacks offer authentic taste in a convenient format.
Snacking Satisfaction
Customers love these for:
- Authentic West African peanut flavor
- Convenient individual packaging
- Protein-rich snacking option
- Great for lunchboxes and on-the-go eating
The pack of 12 provides excellent value for families or those who enjoy regular snacking.
Specialty Items: Tasty Food Calaba Chalk
Cultural and Traditional Item
Tasty Food Calaba Chalk (170G) at $7.99 represents Lafrique Market's commitment to serving the complete needs of their African customer base. This edible chalk, traditionally consumed in some African cultures, is particularly popular among pregnant women.
Cultural Significance
While not a food item in the conventional sense, Calaba chalk (also known as calabash chalk or nzu) holds cultural and traditional significance. Lafrique Market ensures that customers can access traditional items that may be difficult to find elsewhere in Chicago.
What Makes Lafrique Market's Products Stand Out?
Quality Assurance
Lafrique Market has built its reputation on several key factors:
- Authenticity: Products are sourced directly from reputable manufacturers in Africa and the Caribbean
- Freshness: High turnover ensures products are fresh, with proper storage conditions maintained
- Variety: From everyday staples to hard-to-find specialty items
- Fair Pricing: Competitive prices that provide value without compromising quality
Customer Service Excellence
According to customer reviews on platforms like DoorDash, shoppers consistently praise:
- Responsive customer service
- Willingness to offer alternatives when items are out of stock
- Personal attention from the owner and staff
- Both in-store and delivery convenience
One customer noted: "Everything I ordered was great. It's great to have an African store that delivers. One of my items was out of stock, and the store owner called to offer me multiple options for replacement."
Accessibility and Convenience
Lafrique Market understands modern shopping needs:
- Online Shopping: Full inventory available on their website
- Delivery Options: Available through their website and third-party platforms
- Curbside Pickup: Convenient for busy customers
- Nationwide Shipping: Bringing African groceries to customers beyond Chicago
- EBT/SNAP Acceptance: Supporting community access to quality food
Shopping Tips for Lafrique Market
Weekly Deals
The "Deal of the Week" section on their website features rotating specials on popular items. Checking this regularly can help you save on products you use frequently.
Bulk Buying
For frequently used items like rice, beans, and yams, consider buying in bulk. The savings are significant, and these staples have long shelf lives when stored properly.
Seasonal Items
Keep an eye out for seasonal products, especially around holidays and cultural celebrations, when special items may be stocked.
Product Categories to Explore
If you're new to African and Caribbean cuisine, start with:
- Spices and Seasonings: Transform familiar dishes with new flavors
- Grains and Staples: Build a pantry foundation
- Beverages: Discover refreshing alternatives to mainstream drinks
- Snacks: Explore unique flavors and textures
Customer Reviews and Testimonials
What Shoppers Are Saying
The South Side Weekly recognized Lafrique Market as "Best African Grocery," praising the quality of items from fresh produce to spices to baked goods. The publication highlighted owner Ibrahim Agoro's commitment to providing high-end African products that are otherwise unavailable in the South Loop.
DoorDash customers consistently give high ratings, with comments including:
- "Highly recommend, Plate of Jollof Rice is absolutely delicious"
- "Best International Grocery store in downtown Chicago! Amazing service and great variety of products"
- "Great selection of international products, conveniently located downtown - Southloop"
Community Impact
Lafrique Market serves not just as a store but as a cultural hub for African and Caribbean communities in Chicago. It provides:
- Access to authentic ingredients that maintain cultural food traditions
- A gathering place for the diaspora community
- Support for traditional cooking methods and recipes
- Education about African and Caribbean cuisines through their blog and recipe sections
How to Shop at Lafrique Market
Store Information
Address: 2001 S. State Street, Chicago, IL 60616
Phone: (312) 344-1931
Email: support@lafriquemarket.com
Hours of Operation
- Monday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Tuesday to Saturday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Shopping Options
- In-Store Shopping: Browse the full selection and get personal recommendations
- Online Orders: Visit lafriquemarket.com for home delivery
- Curbside Pickup: Order online and pick up at your convenience
- Third-Party Delivery: Available through DoorDash and other platforms
The Lafrique Market Difference
Commitment to Community
Owner Ibrahim Agoro, a first-generation Nigerian immigrant, founded Lafrique Market after experiencing firsthand the difficulty of finding quality African products in Chicago. His vision extends beyond just selling groceries—he aims to make African products accessible to Black communities throughout the United States, with expansion plans for Dallas, Houston, New York, and Atlanta.
Quality Over Quantity
Rather than simply stocking shelves, Lafrique Market carefully curates its inventory to ensure every product meets high standards. This attention to detail has earned customer trust and loyalty.
Cultural Preservation
By providing authentic ingredients and hard-to-find specialty items, Lafrique Market helps preserve culinary traditions and enables the diaspora community to maintain connections to their heritage through food.
Future of Lafrique Market
The vision for Lafrique Market includes becoming a franchise that serves African and Caribbean communities across major U.S. cities. The goal is to be "as close as possible to the doorstep of every desired customer," ensuring that authentic African products are accessible wherever there's demand.
This expansion would replicate the success of the Chicago location while maintaining the quality and authenticity that customers have come to expect.
Conclusion: Your Gateway to Authentic African and Caribbean Cuisine
Lafrique Market has established itself as the premier destination for African and Caribbean groceries in Chicago, earning its reputation through quality products, fair prices, and exceptional customer service. The best-rated items—from Ghana Puna Yam to Malta Guinness, from Asiko palm oil to Jerk Villa seasoning—represent just a fraction of the authentic ingredients available.
Whether you're maintaining culinary traditions from your homeland, exploring new flavors, or simply seeking quality ingredients that mainstream stores don't carry, Lafrique Market delivers. The combination of online convenience and in-store expertise, coupled with the owner's genuine commitment to serving his community, makes this more than just a grocery store—it's a cultural institution.