Prepare for the wildest trip to the grocery store you've ever had at Jungle Jim's International Market. 

This blog is a part of an ongoing, year-long series in 2025 that will take a deep dive into the many hidden gems and local favorites in the Cincy Region. Stay tuned for more authentic, trip-planning inspiration from Callie Budrick.

 

Ever wondered what could happen if a grocery store and an amusement park had a baby? Or if there was a place where you could take a little journey around the world without needing a passport? If you answered "yes" to either of these questions, let me tell you a little bit about a not-so-little place called Jungle Jim's International Market. 

 

With two different locations located just outside of downtown Cincinnati, Jungle Jim's isn't really a spot that you accidentally stumble across during a visit. You have to purposefully travel outside of the city to experience the sights, smells, and tastes that define this famous destination. With over 500,000 combined square feet between their Fairfield and Eastgate locations, Jungle Jim's is an unforgettable experience you'll only find in the Cincy Region. 

An aerial view of the aisles at Jungle Jim's International Market - featuring exotic produce, seafood and more.
Perusing the aisles at Jungle Jim's is truly a full-day of fun. Give yourself PLENTY of time and set a budget! (photo: Callie Budrick)

Experiencing Jungle Jim's for the first time

Personally, I suggest giving yourself a whole day to really lean into the Jungle Jim's experience. If it's your first time, definitely opt for the Fairfield location. The Eastgate store is equally well-stocked and impressive, but there's something extra special about visiting the original location first. 

 

When you arrive, take note of your parking spot and which entrance you go in. Use the main entrance for the full experience, including the American grocery section, a giant Campbell's soup can on a swing, and the olive pit and salsa bar. Choose the beer and wine entrance to skip the general groceries and take a shortcut to the international aisles. 

Regardless of which entrance you choose, be sure to stop by the tasting bar for a sample of the wines and beers on tap while you look over the map and plan your visit. If you prefer to skip the planning session at the bar, you can always visit the Jungle Jim's website ahead of time to view the map and plan your route. 

 

There are over 70 countries worth of delicacies on hand. If you're looking for something specific, chances are you'll find it. However, it's just as fun to roam the aisles without a plan! You might stumble across The Big Cheese or some candy-coated cockroaches. 

 

As you move through the massive store, surely you will stumble upon Jim's impressive seafood section. You can't miss it between the sharks hanging from the ceiling and the tanks of live lobsters. With deliveries coming five days a week, you're sure to end up with the finest fish outside of coastal towns. 

 

Once the drink you grabbed earlier starts catching up to you, be sure to visit the bathrooms at the Fairfield location. Don't let the Port-A-Potty facade doors fool you! Once you step inside, you'll find an expansive, clean facility that is low-key world famous.

An assortment of hot sauces in an aisle at Jungle Jim's International Market.
The selection of hot sauces at Jungle Jim's is unlike anywhere else! (photo: Callie Budrick)

Foods from around the world

Hopefully you've saved enough energy for the main event - the massive selection of international dry goods and other foods. These wares span everywhere from Eastern Europe, Asia, Africa and more. You can find specialty ingredients for that dish you've been dying to try, as well as all sorts of snacks and sweets that aren't readily available at a typical grocery store. I personally love being able to find treats I've encountered on my travels abroad, while also stumbling across new cookies and candies to try out.

 

If sweets aren't your thing, there are plenty of savory options as well. And while it's not necessarily a snack, any hot sauce lover must visit the Jungle Jim's firetruck. This is where they keep their massive assortment of hot sauces. 

 

Are you a fan of "Hot Ones?" Well, Jungle Jim's carries every hot sauce from the show and then some. Be sure to also check out the local options like Farmer Nate's hot sauces. Made with locally grown peppers just across the river in Covington, KY, Nate's sauces do not disappoint. Try the Louisiana style and the Kentucky Tang. They're great sauces and add a little local flair to your international adventure. 

An Elvis animatronic located at Jungle Jim's International Market.
One of the most iconic things at Jungle Jim's - the animatronic Elvis! (photo: Callie Budrick)

Don't forget to visit The King

By this point in your visit, you might be feeling a little worn out. In fact, you might feel like you've been at a casino all day and you don't know what time it is or whether the sun is still out. Don't worry, that's normal.

 

But you can't leave without paying a visit to The King. That's right - just like Vegas and Chuck-E-Cheese, Jungle Jim's has its own Elvis impersonator in the form of an animatronic lion. It is tradition to stay for at least one rendition of "Hound Dog" before you make your way to the registers to purchase any goodies you grabbed during your adventure.

 

All in all, Jungle Jim's is a truly unique experience, known both locally, and internationally. It is a definite can't miss in the Cincy Region.