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Welcome to Minto Jamaican Market

Minto Jamaican Market is a delightful gem nestled in Oakland, CA, dedicated to bringing authentic Jamaican flavors to the Bay Area. This international grocery store boasts a rich selection of essential ingredients, from savory meat patties to unique spices, catering to both culinary enthusiasts and families. Patrons rave about the warm, friendly service and the delectable veggie patties nestled in fresh CoCo bread. Although compact, the market's charm lies in its diverse offerings that transport shoppers back to Jamaica. Minto’s commitment to delivering a taste of home is evident, making it a must-visit for anyone craving true Caribbean essence.

Minto Jamaican Market: Reviews & Ratings

Bee D.
Bee D.

My go to for Jamaican ingredients. The patties are really good too. The young guy that usually occupies the counter is friendly and really helpful.

Nicole A.
Nicole A.

They are always in stock of all the items I need to make an authentic Caribbean dish at home here in the Bay Area of California. The service is great. Makes me feel like I am in the market in Jamaica oh and the Veggie Pattie between CoCo Bread is always delicious and fresh too.

Winnie Y.
Winnie Y.

Can't complain too much about this place considering there aren't many other dedicated Jamaican markets in the bay area. The store is really small, but it does the job. They sell patties (both uncooked and cooked (in a little toaster oven behind the counter)). The unheated ones are bagged up in random quantities, but you can request to have more or less. The patties are frozen/pre-made so don't expect it to be of homemade quality. They also sell plantains, spice buns (by the loaf and individual), canned cheese, water crackers, soap, spices, etc. Prices are steep, but if you're desperate for some specialty Jamaican items, this is the place to go. Credit card accepted. Service is OK - no greeting and the employees just mind their own business which is fine.

Shayla B.
Shayla B.

Every time I stop by this Minto's, I'm always like "Damn, I need to review this place!" So, here I am...FINALLY getting to it. Love, love, looove me some Minto's! I've been to one other location on Franklin street, but this location has actually been my go-to. I come here for the meat patties and the Big Bamboo canned Sea Moss. When I'm having a craving, I'll often drive to this market on my lunch break to get my fix. The only thing is, they don't always have the patties. It's best to call beforehand but... sometimes they don't even answer the phone. I like to just show up there anyways because I love perusing the market and grabbing random snacks. They've got all kinds of Caribbean snacks and spices. They also sell frozen patties in bulk that you can heat up for later. They switch up the meat patty flavors pretty often, so don't come here expecting to get one specific flavor. Also, this location is a market and not a juice bar or restaurant like their other locations. But, it still has a lot to offer. Service is hit or miss and really depends on who's working that day. Grateful that this market is so close to my job because it always hits the spot when I'm having a craving for meat patties.

Rachel K.
Rachel K.

We love stopping into Jamaican Markets to check out the varieties of seasonings, marinades and ingredients. We were heading to dinner when we saw this shop and had to stop me. The store is on the smaller side, but they had a great variety of options. We saw some seasonings here that we couldn't recall from other markets. We had the chance to talk to one of the owners and learned they own a few businesses in the area. We love supporting local and it's even more fun when we get to talk with the owners and staff about their favorite ingredients, products and other places in town that we can check out. It's definitely worth stopping by, especially if you love to cook with Jamaican spices at home.

Joanna B.
Joanna B.

I came back! The shopkeeper remembered me. He said, "I'm glad to see you're getting better at this dish!" I guess I looked more confident. :)

Tiena L.
Tiena L.

This is a great little find! The only place I have seen that sells scotch bonnet peppers! They have so many sauces, marinades, and spices. Plus they sell frozen and fresh beef patties. I got the chicken, beef, and vegetable. The chicken was curry flavored and was so good. It was my first time having one other than beef. The vegetable one was not my favorite and I think I will try the spinach one instead next time. The beef was excellent and I will definitely go back for more. They sell a ton of these fresh patties so if you need a lot I would call ahead of time.

Location

Welcome to the vibrant culinary world of Minto Jamaican Market, located at 4042 Broadway, Oakland, CA. This beloved international grocery store specializes in authentic Jamaican ingredients, catering to both locals and Caribbean cuisine enthusiasts. With a range of convenient services, including delivery, takeout, and wheelchair accessibility, Minto Jamaican Market aims to blend convenience with quality.

The moment you step into Minto Jamaican Market, you’re hit with the tantalizing aroma of Caribbean spices and freshly prepared patties. As described by regulars, the market is a treasure trove for those seeking an authentic taste of Jamaica. Customers often rave about the delicious patties, available in various flavors, whether hot and ready or frozen for later enjoyment. Many visitors, like Shayla B., find themselves stopping by during lunch breaks, unable to resist the call of a savory meat patty or a unique snack.

  • Top Highlights:
    • Patties: Whether you prefer them cooked or uncooked, Minto's patties are a must-try. Each bite is a delightful explosion of flavor that takes you straight to the heart of Jamaica.
    • Jamaican Spices: The market's selection of seasonings and marinades is unparalleled, making it a favorite for those who love to experiment in the kitchen with authentic Caribbean dishes.
    • Community-Focused: Local patrons enjoy the friendly atmosphere, with staff often engaging in conversations about recipes, herbs, and best practices for preparing Jamaican cuisine.

The layout of Minto Jamaican Market may be small, however, it provides a robust variety of products, from plantains to spice buns. As Nicole A. so eloquently put it, shopping here feels akin to navigating a bustling market in Jamaica. The store not only serves as a grocery stop but also as a cultural hub for anyone yearning for a taste of the Caribbean.

Though some reviews mention that service can be hit or miss, the genuine camaraderie felt among shoppers and staff makes a trip worth it. The acceptance of credit cards and Apple Pay simplifies transactions, ensuring a seamless shopping experience. Plus, options for catering make it an excellent choice for gatherings, whether small or large.

In conclusion, Minto Jamaican Market stands out as a go-to destination for those seeking authentic Jamaican ingredients in the Bay Area. With its mouthwatering patties, extensive offerings, and friendly environment, it's more than just a store; it’s a celebration of Jamaican culinary culture. Don’t miss the chance to explore this gem next time you’re in Oakland!