Groceries, food & community
- 1Start with familiar foods
Persian, Middle Eastern, Indian, Afghan, and international markets can help
- 2Check halal options
Availability varies by store and neighborhood
- 3Save a few go-to places
Groceries, pharmacy, bakery, and restaurants near home
- 4Ask local Iranians
Current recommendations often come from people already here
- 5Follow community updates
Events and gatherings may be announced online
- 6Share useful tips
Send corrections, new places, and practical notes
Hours and details change, so check before you go.
You don't have to leave home behind. The St. Louis area has Persian and Middle Eastern markets and restaurants, plus a welcoming Iranian community to connect with.
- For groceries and food, browse the directory — it lists Persian and Middle Eastern markets (saffron, herbs, rice, dried limes, sangak and barbari bread, feta, sweets) and Iranian restaurants.
- The Iranian American Cultural Society of the Midwest (IACSMW) is an independent local nonprofit serving the St. Louis Iranian community through cultural events, gatherings, and newcomer support. For current ways to connect with local organizations, see the Persia Gateway Connect page.
- Watch the events page for Nowruz, Chaharshanbe Suri, Sizdah Bedar, Mehregan, and Yalda gatherings.
- Students: look for an Iranian or Persian student association at the universities (WashU, SLU, UMSL, and SIUE) — an easy way to meet people.
- Local Facebook, Telegram, and WhatsApp groups are often where everyday questions get answered and events get shared — ask the community which ones are active.
- New here with a question? Reach out through the contact page — the community is glad to help.