Have you been missing something from home that you just can’t seem to find anywhere in Cairns (or even Queensland for that matter)?
Maybe it is a brand of tea, real British chocolate, Walkers crisps, American Pop-tarts, Dr. Pepper or Cherry Coke, New Zealand’s the Longest Drink in Town, Canadian Spitz sunflower seeds, the list goes on…
Nothing cures a case of homesickness like food from home and, after all this time in Cairns, we have recently made a discovery that might make your day!
One of our guests stopped by M&C International Grocers (on Grafton Street – right in front of Gilligan’s) and got the scoop on the grocery store that will import homeland treats just for you!
Here is what she had to say:
“I am approaching my 7th month of travel and have been on the hunt for Clamato juice since month 2. Canadians – you know what I am talking about. For those who don’t, Clamato juice is a mix for a Caesar, which is a drink, similar to a Bloody Mary (but arguably way better).
With Canada’s 150th birthday fast approaching, I was determined to find a Caesar in Cairns.
M&C International Grocers to the rescue!
I stopped by the store (that I have never noticed despite passing it at least 20 times on route to work) and was happy to see they had THREE different options for Clamato juice.
Needless to say, I am now prepared for Canada Day celebrations on July 1st.
It was the Clamato juice that brought me in, but the story behind the store and everything else in it that kept me there longer than I like to admit.
The two men who were running the shop when I came in were lovely. They explained how if they don’t have something we want, they will do their best to stock it (perhaps a spicy bean for my Caesar?). It didn’t start this way, but they have adapted to give the people what they want! They love hearing about what foods from home people hold dear to their heart.
And, they will go the extra mile! A women from America was looking for Crisco, so they got it in. But then she specified that she was missing the butter flavoured Crisco, so now that is what is on the shelf. Amazing!
So! If you are in need of something from the motherland, stop by the store. Worst case, you leave with some British chocolate and a can of soda from home ;)”
