Chicago is one of the best cities in the U.S. to find authentic Indian spices. Thanks to its vibrant South Asian community, particularly around Devon Avenue, famously called “Little India”, you can shop for everything from cumin and turmeric to hing, garam masala, and fresh curry leaves without a second thought. From recreating a family favorite to experimenting with spices or prepping for the festive season, Chicago makes it easy with plenty of choices online
This complete guide covers the most essential Indian spices and their health benefits, the top brands in the U.S., and the best platforms to buy Indian spices online in Chicago.
Indian cooking isn’t just about flavor; it’s rooted in centuries of wellness traditions. Many spices carry studied health benefits in addition to their taste.
When you’re shopping for spices, you’ll notice certain brands everywhere. These are the most trusted names in Indian households across America:
Quicklly is Chicago’s most reliable online Indian grocery delivery service, connecting you directly with local stores and spice brands. The platform offers same-day delivery, a wide brand selection (including SWAD, Laxmi, MDH, and organic labels), and transparent pricing. What makes Quicklly stand out is its focus on freshness and authentic sourcing, so you’re not stuck with stale stock. Unlike other platforms, Quicklly is rooted in the Indian community, making it a trusted choice for festival shopping and everyday cooking.
Zifiti is an e-commerce marketplace featuring Indian products across categories, including spices. While the variety is decent, many items are shipped from sellers in India, which can mean longer delivery times and higher shipping fees compared to local platforms. If you’re looking for unique or hard-to-find regional blends, it can be useful, but it may not be the fastest option for regular kitchen needs.
Patel Brothers, America’s largest Indian grocery chain, also sells a selection of spices online. Their site reflects the range you’d expect in-store, but stock levels and delivery zones are limited compared to their physical supermarkets. While reliable in terms of authenticity, shoppers often find the digital experience less convenient and the selection narrower than Quicklly’s.
Desi Basket offers nationwide delivery of Indian groceries, including spice staples and blends. The selection is wide, and they often run promotions, which makes it appealing for budget buyers. However, customer reviews sometimes mention delayed shipping and items arriving close to expiry, so it’s better suited for bulk pantry staples rather than specialty spices that need freshness.
Instacart delivers Indian spices through local partnerships with stores like Patel Brothers, Fresh Farms, or international markets. The convenience is unmatched; you can order along with your weekly groceries, but prices tend to be higher due to delivery markups, and the product range depends heavily on which local store is listed in your zip code. Great for last-minute needs, but not the most consistent for authenticity.
Chicago makes it easy to keep your kitchen stocked with authentic Indian spices. If you love exploring flavors in person, Devon Avenue is unbeatable. If convenience is key, Quicklly is your best bet for fresh, authentic, and same-day grocery delivery in Chicago. Add in options like Zifiti, Patel Brothers Online, Desi Basket, and Instacart, and you’ve got plenty of ways to make sure your dals, curries, and biryanis taste just like home.
What’s the best place to find everything at once?
Devon Avenue’s Patel Brothers is unbeatable for variety, but Quicklly is the easiest online choice.
Are whole spices better than ground?
Yes, whole cumin, coriander, and cardamom pods keep flavor longer. Grind them fresh for maximum aroma.
Where can I find fresh curry leaves?
Patel Brothers and nearby Devon stores often stock them. Ask staff when shipments arrive.
Which premium spice should I try?
A single-origin turmeric or cardamom from Diaspora Co., the fragrance difference is incredible.
