There’s just something magical about stepping into a place that instantly feels like home—even if it’s miles away from where you grew up. As a Jersey girl who grew up surrounded by so many beautiful cultures, I’ve always cherished the experiences that shaped my love for global flavors. Now that I’m raising my family in North Carolina, I'm constantly looking for ways to bring those meaningful sights, tastes, and sounds right into our home. One of the easiest—and most delicious—ways to do that? Sam’s Caribbean Marketplace in West Hempstead, NY.

Sam’s Caribbean Marketplace has been a beloved staple in its community since opening its doors in 1993. Founded by a husband-and-wife team (Morris) with a passion for sharing the flavors of their Caribbean upbringing, Sam’s started as a humble grocery space and has grown into one of the most respected Caribbean markets in the region. Today, it remains a family-run treasure, offering authentic groceries, specialty items, wellness products, and even freshly prepared Jamaican dishes that keep customers coming back again and again. Over the years, Sam’s has earned countless accolades—not just for its incredible selection, but for its ongoing commitment to serving and uplifting its community.

And let me tell you… Sam’s has everything. Truly everything. Whether you grew up on Caribbean flavors or are just discovering the magic for the first time, this is the place to find the real deal.

Top Gift Picks From Sam’s Caribbean Marketplace

This year, Sam’s is an absolute standout in our Mommy’s Block Party 2025 Holiday Gift Guide, and for good reason! They offer so many unique items that make perfect gifts:

 Jamaican Grocery Items
Think hard-to-find sauces, jerk seasonings, authentic patties, beverages, snacks, and staples you just can’t get in a regular grocery store.

 Curated Grocery Gift Boxes
Beautifully packaged and ready for gifting—perfect for the foodie in your life!

 Wellness Products
Find traditional herbal teas, natural remedies, soaps, tonics, and body care products inspired by Caribbean healing traditions.

One of my favorite things? You can create your very own gift baskets! Choose from Caribbean spices, hot sauces, teas, candies, baking mixes, hair and skin products, and more. I love creating special gift baskets for people I love and care about. It allows me to choose items that remind me of them, or items I think they would love.

Make a Gift Basket from Sam's

Try combinations like:
– A “Taste of Jamaica” basket with jerk seasoning, Scotch bonnet sauce, and plantain chips
– A “Caribbean Wellness” basket with peppermint tea, black castor oil, turmeric soap, and herbal tonics
– A “Sweet Island Treats” basket with tamarind balls, coconut drops, and tropical juices

Check out Sam's Caribbean brands and create your special gift today!

Want to send groceries to a loved one? Check out Sam's Bread & Butter Express! An online door-to-door grocery delivery service! This is a safe, fast, and convenient way to send groceries to your loved ones on the island of Jamaica. Order from anywhere in the world!

It’s such a fun and meaningful way to share the flavors that remind me of vacations with my family—some of the best meals and memories of my life happened on those trips. Being able to bring those flavors back to my NC-based family honestly fills my heart with joy.

 Shopping With Sam’s

Whether you’re local to West Hempstead or miles away like me, Sam’s makes holiday shopping a breeze.

Shop In-Store:
Enjoy browsing shelves packed with authentic Caribbean finds—and while you’re there, treat yourself to a plate of their homemade Jamaican food. Seriously… run, don’t walk.

Shop Online:
Their website makes ordering easy, and shipping is available nationwide, so you can stock up or send gifts straight to loved ones. Shop Sam's online here.

Too hard to choose? (Believe me, it happens!)
Sam’s Caribbean Marketplace gift cards are the PERFECT solution.

Hosting a holiday party?
Let Sam’s handle the feast! Their catering services bring the flavor and warmth of Jamaican home cooking right to your table. Ready to relax this holiday season and take a night off from cooking? You've earned it- and Sam's is ready to help you embrace and enjoy the holidays.

Sam’s Caribbean Marketplace is the kind of place that brings people together—just like the foods and traditions that shaped my childhood. I’m so proud to share this incredible business with you and to feature them in our 2025 Mommy’s Block Party Holiday Gift Guide.

Have you ever visited Sam’s Caribbean Marketplace or tried authentic Caribbean foods? What flavors would you love to explore this holiday season?