417 S. Highland Ave., (410) 276-0004
The Mexican restaurants in the city keep getting better, but if you want to try to cook something yourself, it’s often hard to find annatto paste, El Salvadoran white sour cream, or freshly made chorizo, let alone cactus leaves or dried corn husks for tamales. The Cinco de Mayo Mercado in Highlandtown has everything you could possibly need, including a butcher, fresh produce, and a helpful staff. The store is a bit larger and brighter than the typical small market, and colorful piñatas line the ceiling, giving it a festive atmosphere. If you get hungry, the store has its own taqueria across the street, so you can get a snack before you go home to cook.
