Mediterranean Market in Middleburg Heights offers a whole new world of ‘old-world’ favorites
One of the nicest things about northeast Ohio is its ethnic diversity. This area is home to thousands of people whose heritage comes from the Mediterranean, and that was the inspiration for opening the Mediterranean Market three years ago.
The family-run market, owned by Aida Zaboura and Fred Karim opened three years ago at 7553 Pearl Road in Middleburg Heights. The community has embraced the store, which is filled with foods and gifts that harken from countries such as Turkey, Lebanon, Syria, Greece and even India.
“One of the things we’re most proud of,” Zaboura said, “is our bakery where we make fresh baked goods each day.” That includes za’atar bread, baklava, triangular “pies” stuffed with spinach or meats, sometimes called fatayers. In my house we called them sviha.
Fresh meats and produce are also available in the store, and it would take quite a while to go through all the wonderful spices and ingredients you can purchase. The deli department makes fresh hummus, tabouleh, baba ghanouj, gyros, fattoush and stuffed grape leaves every day, she added.
One of the most popular dishes, even among those who are not of Mediterranean descent, is kibbee. You can order from the menu — and get freshly deep fried “torpedoes” or you can call ahead for a special order. Many Middle Easterners like their kibbee baked or even raw. You can also buy the ground lamb and pine nuts you need to make your own.
