Popular by Debbie Dunlap Not far from the large isles of Kroger, tucked in a small plaza on East Main Street next to a traditional American pizza shop is a modest African grocery store where salt fish, ukazi leaves, red palm oil, and fufu fill the shelves of this locally-owned market. Dorceline African Market and International Foods might be likened to an old-fashioned American “mom and pop” grocery store with a little bit of everything and conveniently located right around the corner. From meats and fish, vegetables and canned items, to clothing and shoes, belts and watches, Dorceline meets the needs of Reynoldsburg’s African community without having to travel far. Of course, owner Justin Vuadi’s inviting smile and wealth of knowledge also encourages customers to stop in. “Customers are happy because some live just across the street,” said Vuadi, sweeping his arms toward East Main Street’s many apartments and small neighborhoods. “They can just come buy, go home, and then cook.” Born in Congo, Vuadi moved his wife and two children to Reynoldsburg in 2020 and opened the market in 2022. An already established African community here attracted Vuadi where he and his family have settled comfortably. Dorceline offers a diverse selection of foods reflecting the rich culinary heritage of many countries in Africa and other nearby countries. The market is more than a staple for local community members who have relocated from East African countries like Nigeria, Ghana, Congo and Cameroon, it is a treasure trove of inviting foods just waiting to be discovered by those adventurous enough to try. While small chickens and goat are popular, along with salted and smoked fish (mackerel, tilapia and catfish), a staple in the store is fufu, a starchy dough-like side dish made from cassava, plantains, or yams that is an accompaniment to many West African meals. Fufu is similar to starchy mashed potatoes or a Southern flour/ corn meal mush-like dumpling. Reynoldsburg Magazine • Fall/Winter 2024 Looking for something to satisfy your sweet tooth? Biscuit cookies or red beans, which Vuadi assures make a tasty dessert, are easy to find. A variety of teas also tempt the palate and range from sweet (with notes of honey suckle and natural cane) to spicy and citrusy. If you are looking for a suggestion of something fairly simple to try, Vuadi proposes kosa kosa, tiny salt dried fish that are “easy to cook. Just add oil, tomato, onions and a little bit of seasoning. That’s it.” Just down the way on Brice Road in Reynoldsburg sits another African market with a larger grocery-store feel. Mandela African Market’s long isles, tall ceilings, and full meat counter attract shoppers from all over the East Columbus area. While food, clothing, and personal items are also sold at Mandela, musical instruments and other treasures can be found at the counter and hidden in corners www.reynoldsburgmagazine.com available in Reynoldsburg products Justin Vuadi, owner of the Dorceline African Market, displays some traditional foods like Ukazi leaves, salted fish, and (inset) green plantains. throughout the store. Ghanaian Yams, red snapper, goat, pamplemousse drink, and bouye fruit powder are just a few of the items stocked on the shelves there. You can also find staple ingredients such as various types of rice (like jasmine, basmati, and parboiled), grains like millet and sorghum, and various types of flours (cassava, yam, maize) used in making dishes like fufu, injera, and couscous. Spices and seasonings are also a staple in the store as African cuisine is known for its bold and flavorful spices. Dorceline African Market and International Foods is located at 7059 E. Main Street. Mandela African Market is located at 1920 Brice Road. 11
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